Suits and Sayings: Sports magnate on tough course in Mexico; fintech boss eyes new career; Harry’s memoirs trigger flashbacks of the famous India Inc feud
This flamboyant businessman who until very recently was madly and deeply in love with a former beauty queen – a romance that apparently didn’t last – is seriously ill, we hear. The man who started a sporting revolution had a touch-and-go two weeks in Mexico, where he was hospitalized for Covid and co-morbidities. He was then airlifted to London – his base – and has been under constant medical supervision. We all know him to have changed the rules of the game forever, so we hope he recovers soon and prepares for another round of love and life.
Kissa Kursi Ka
Two investment banks – both American and starting with the same initial. At one point we hear that there is serious heartburn when a veteran-turned-banker, who is a corporate trader, is parachuted in as boss, which makes several internal candidates feel rejected. The other has quietly regrouped and has been on a tear lately, especially in the equity capital market headlines. It is in the market for an investment banker, and naturally the names of rainmakers from several Wall Street banks, especially from the former and some European shops, are doing the rounds. It’s bonus season, so more people are expected to play their cards strategically.
Spare us the memory
Prince Harry’s memoir, with its plethora of allegations, has revived memories for several long-term India Inc. insiders. Years ago, the better half of a pharma tycoon had written a poem for a YPO event in which she used the words “reserve” and “heir” to describe two successful siblings who were also hosting the event in their ocean-facing mansion. The younger of the two detested the adjective used to describe him that he stormed out of
highly recognized club of business leaders. The event itself was stormy and soon the empire split in two and the once united First Family went their separate ways after a bitter and public feud.
How is Josh doing?
At one of the pre-race dinners at a five-star venue for dignitaries, VIPs and friends on Friday, ahead of Sunday’s Mumbai Marathon, the guest of honor was this scion who is as passionate about sports as his father is about steel. Full of excitement about his country’s and family conglomerate’s quest for Olympic excellence, he was up and running and in mission mode, inspiring guests to join in and make a collective effort for greater glory. Cynics often moan about his aggression on and off the field and blame his youthful exuberance. To them we say that one man’s precocity is another’s penchant for perfection.
Opposites attract each other
We all know that the FMCG honcho who went on to lead this battered fintech firm recently quit, joining a string of top-level departures. Guess his patience also ran out after the confluence of derogatory tweets and social media attacks from the ousted co-founder, who has been on a roll. A little bird tells us that he is considering becoming an investor himself or becoming associated with a fund. Given his supposed connection with subprime debt, many of his peers
think an equity call will be the perfect yin for yang.
