SAIF Partners

SAIF Partners was a preeminent pan-Asian private equity and venture capital firm, headquartered in Hong Kong, with a significant operational presence across China and India. Established as the SoftBank Asia Infrastructure Fund, the firm quickly rose to prominence as a key investor in the region's burgeoning technology and consumer sectors. SAIF Partners was known for its flexible investment approach, deploying capital across various stages, from early-stage venture rounds to late-stage growth equity, and even pre-IPO investments. Their strategic focus was on identifying and nurturing companies with high growth potential, aiming to help them scale from concept to market leadership and eventual public offerings.

The firm's investment thesis revolved around disruptive technologies and business models, particularly in the internet, mobile, consumer services, healthcare, and financial technology sectors. SAIF Partners built an impressive portfolio, backing numerous companies that would later become industry giants and unicorns. Notable investments include early stakes in companies like MakeMyTrip and 58.com, both of which went on to successful IPOs, and significant capital injections into One97 Communications, the parent company of Paytm, where they invested $10 million in 2007. Over its active period, SAIF Partners managed over $4 billion in capital across multiple funds, demonstrating its substantial financial firepower and commitment to the Asian market. Their portfolio often comprised over 100 companies, reflecting a broad and diversified investment strategy.

SAIF Partners played a pivotal role in shaping the venture capital landscape in Asia, particularly in India and China. While the original SAIF Partners entity has evolved, its legacy continues through its successor firms. In 2019, the firm's India operations officially rebranded as Lightspeed India Partners, while parts of its China operations also transitioned, with some partners forming Lightspeed China Partners. This evolution underscores the firm's enduring impact and the successful spin-off of its regional teams, maintaining its commitment to fostering innovation and growth across the continent.