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Equity Shares versus CCPS: What Should Founders Know?
This article was written by Akshay Vasantgadkar, Senior Associate. When a company is started in India, the first thing a founder issues to themselves (and to their co-founders) are equity shares. As the company grows and raises money from outside investors, a founder will quickly hear about another instrument: CCPS (Compulsorily Convertible Preference Shares), among other instruments that we touched on in our previous note. For many first-time founders, the difference between
Feb 95 min read


Understanding Conversion and Dividend Rights In Early-Stage Investments - A Simple Guide for First-Time Founders
This article was written by Karthik Jayakumar, Partner. When early-stage founders raise capital in India, especially through instruments like compulsorily convertible preference shares (CCPS) or compulsorily convertible debentures (CCDs), they often encounter two terms that shape the economics of the deal: conversion rights and dividend rights (not relevant for CCDs). Despite appearing technical, these rights influence how much of your company an investor ultimately owns and
Feb 35 min read


Liquidation Preference: A Simple Guide for First-Time Indian Founders
When you are raising funds for your startup in India, you will likely hear the term "liquidation preference". This article will explain what liquidation preferences are, and why it matters to a first-time Indian founder.
Nov 19, 20254 min read


Understanding Debentures in India: A Practical Guide for First-Time Founders
What are the three main types of debentures in India? Debentures function as borrowings with pre-agreed repayment terms. They often carry interest obligations and a maturity period. For startups, they provide a way to access capital without instant dilution of ownership. Whether or not dilution happens later depends on the variety of debenture you choose.
Nov 12, 20252 min read


Early Stage Fundraising Instruments Used by Investors in India (2025)
This article was written by Varshinee AS, Associate, and Karthik Jayakumar, Partner. What are the typical instruments that investors use...
Sep 2, 20255 min read


Binding versus Non-Binding Clauses in a Term Sheet: What Founders Should Know
Discover the crucial differences between binding clauses and non-binding clauses in a term sheet. Learn how binding clauses impact founders.
Aug 25, 20254 min read


What Does “Pre-Money Valuation” and “Post-Money Valuation” Mean?
This article was written by Aneesh Sudharsan, Associate, and Karthik Jayakumar, Partner. As a first-time Indian founder, you may have...
Aug 18, 20254 min read


Understanding Term Sheets – a Note for First-Time Indian Founders
A term sheet is a preliminary document, which elaborates on the proposed terms and conditions, as mutually agreed between parties, that would form a base for the proposed transaction and the more full-blown agreements.
Aug 14, 20254 min read
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