Introduction to QED Investors
QED Investors, a US-based venture capital firm, is planning to invest between $250 million and $300 million in early and growth-stage startups in India and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region over the coming years. The firm, which closed a $925 million fund in 2023, believes in the potential of India’s startup ecosystem and plans to channel a significant portion of this capital into the country.
Doubling Down on Asia, Starting with India
QED Investors was founded in 2007 by Nigel Morris, co-founder of Capital One. The firm has a strong focus on technology-driven financial inclusion and has made early investments in successful fintech companies like Credit Karma, Remitly, NuBank, and Klarna. In Asia, QED has already invested $220 million over the past five years in Indian startups such as Jupiter, OneCard, Upswing, and Efficient Capital Labs.
Investment Strategy
QED will invest in startups through both its growth and early-stage funds. The firm’s initial investments can range from $3 million to $20 million, while follow-on investments in growth-stage companies can go up to $50 million. QED is looking for opportunities in Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, and other key APAC markets, where digital adoption is rising and regulatory environments are supportive of financial innovation.
Focus on India
India will be a major focus for QED’s investments in Asia. The firm believes in the country’s maturing startup ecosystem and plans to invest a significant portion of its capital in Indian startups. QED’s partner and head of Asia, Sandeep Patil, noted that the firm does not have separate allocations for each geography, but India will attract a major share of the investment planned for Asia.
Expansion Plans
QED is excited about the opportunities in the APAC region and plans to expand its investments in the coming years. The firm is scouting for investment opportunities in various countries, including Indonesia, Singapore, and Japan. With its strong focus on fintech and financial inclusion, QED is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for digital financial services in the region.
Conclusion
In conclusion, QED Investors is a US-based venture capital firm that is planning to invest heavily in India and the APAC region. With its strong focus on fintech and financial inclusion, the firm is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for digital financial services in the region. QED’s investments in Indian startups and its plans to expand its investments in the coming years are a testament to the firm’s confidence in the country’s startup ecosystem. As the firm continues to invest in the region, it is likely to play a significant role in shaping the future of fintech in India and the APAC region.
