Markets Media spoke with Aditi Kamat, Senior Investment Analyst, Amansa Capital, who won Rising Star at the 2025 Women in Finance Asia Awards.

What does this award mean to you personally, and how do you see it shaping your journey going forward?

Receiving this award is both humbling and deeply encouraging. It validates the work I’ve done so far and strengthens my resolve to keep pushing for excellence. Beyond the recognition, what excites me most is the opportunity to connect with an inspiring network of accomplished women. Being part of this community broadens my perspective, offers meaningful exchange, and energizes me to grow—not just as an investment professional, but also as a mentor and collaborator committed to fostering future talent.

What have been some of the most meaningful lessons or insights you’ve gained so far in your role as a senior investment analyst?

Over the years, a few principles have become foundational to my investment approach. First, always back the right management—those with a strong track record of prudent capital allocation tend to create long-term value. Second, prioritize businesses with a history of delivering healthy returns on capital or those with a clear roadmap to get there. Third, in promoter-led companies, assessing the intent and integrity of the promoter is essential to understanding long-term alignment. Fourth, governance is non-negotiable. Even the best business models can be derailed by weak oversight or poor disclosure standards. Fifth, setting up robust tracking mechanisms is critical—closely monitoring key metrics, business performance, and capital deployment helps you stay proactive and nimble. And finally, never get emotionally tied to an investment. Objectivity is key; if the investment thesis breaks down, it’s important to acknowledge it, cut your losses, and reallocate capital. These lessons have not only shaped my process but also instilled a discipline that I believe is crucial for sustained outperformance.

What initially drew you to the world of investing, and was there a specific experience or mentor who influenced your decision to pursue this path?

My passion for investing was first ignited by the writings of Warren Buffett and Howard Marks. Their philosophies on value, patience, and disciplined thinking deeply resonated with me and laid the intellectual foundation for my journey. At McKinsey, I had the chance to work closely with businesses and understand operational realities, which gave me a strong appreciation for on-the-ground dynamics. This foundation was further strengthened at Wharton and Bain Capital, where I developed core investment skills. But it was at Amansa that my capabilities were truly sharpened. Working with a phenomenal team, I learned to marry analytical rigor with field diligence, and to always stay rooted in first principles. Every phase of this journey has reinforced my belief in long-term, research-driven investing.

Can you share a project, investment, or moment in your career that you’re particularly proud of?

One of the most rewarding investments I’ve been part of is Amansa’s investment in India’s leading travel company. In 2022, the company was still loss-making, and investor sentiment was largely negative. We took a contrarian view, grounded in deep research and a belief in the company’s structural advantages and improving unit economics. Over the next three years, the company executed well, and the share price appreciated 4x+. It was a powerful validation of staying patient, trusting the process, and leaning into your convictions when the broader market is skeptical. It also reinforced the importance of combining deep bottom-up research with a long-term lens.

Outside of the markets, what keeps you inspired and balanced?

I find balance and inspiration through a range of interests that keep me grounded. Reading across genres feeds my curiosity and broadens my worldview. I also enjoy swimming, trekking, and painting—activities that offer both physical refreshment and creative expression. Mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation help me maintain mental clarity and perspective. Above all, spending time with my family—especially my two-year-old son, Amay—brings immense joy and reminds me daily of what truly matters beyond the professional sphere.

If you could fast-forward 10 years, what kind of investor—and leader—do you hope to become, and what values will guide you on that journey?

A decade from now, I hope to be known as an investor who combines deep conviction with intellectual honesty and a long-term mindset. As a leader, I aim to build and be part of inclusive, high-performing teams that challenge each other constructively and grow together. I want to lead with clarity, empathy, and purpose. My guiding values will remain grounded in continuous learning, stewardship of capital, and integrity in decision-making. I believe success in investing is not just about generating returns, but also about doing so with humility, discipline, and a deep sense of responsibility.