In the world of Indian finance, one name stands out as a true symbol of resilience, vision, and groundbreaking leadership – Radhika Gupta. Today, she is celebrated as the Chief Executive Officer of Edelweiss Asset Management, one of the fastest-growing and most innovative asset managers in India. But her journey is not simply a corporate success story; it is the inspiring tale of a woman who turned personal challenges into powerful motivation, broke barriers in a male-dominated industry, and redefined what it means to lead with courage and authenticity.
Early Life of Radhika Gupta: The Foundation of Resilience
Radhika Gupta’s story begins with adversity. Born with a rare medical condition that left her with a tilted neck, she grew up facing stares, questions, and at times, rejection. Yet, instead of allowing these struggles to define her, she chose to turn them into her strength. Her global upbringing across four continents—from Nigeria to Pakistan, Italy to the United States—exposed her to diverse cultures and perspectives, helping her develop adaptability and a world-view that later became a key asset in her career.
A brilliant student, Radhika completed her International Baccalaureate at Marymount International School of Rome. She then pursued the prestigious Jerome Fisher Program in Management and Technology at the University of Pennsylvania, earning dual degrees: a B.S.E. in Computer Science Engineering from the Moore School and a B.Sc. in Economics from The Wharton School.
Professional Beginnings: A Strong Launchpad
After graduation, Radhika Gupta began her career with some of the most respected global institutions. She worked with Microsoft, McKinsey & Company, and AQR Capital Management, where she gained exposure to both the technology and finance sectors. These experiences sharpened her analytical skills and prepared her for the entrepreneurial leap that would follow.
Radhika Gupta: Forefront Capital – An Entrepreneurial Dream
In 2009, Radhika co-founded Forefront Capital Management in Mumbai. This pioneering asset management firm was one of the first to launch innovative alternative investment products in India. Her entrepreneurial spirit, combined with her deep financial expertise, made Forefront a trusted name in the market. The company’s potential was soon recognized, leading to its acquisition by Edelweiss Financial Services in 2014—a turning point in her career.
Rising to the Top at Edelweiss AMC
After the acquisition, Radhika quickly rose through the ranks at Edelweiss. Starting as the business head of multi-strategy funds, she was responsible for shaping the company’s investment direction and distribution platform. By 2017, she was appointed CEO of Edelweiss Asset Management, making her India’s only female leader of a major asset management company.
Under her leadership, Edelweiss AMC’s Assets Under Management (AUM) grew dramatically—from ₹6,700 crore in 2017 to more than ₹1,25,000 crore by 2025. Her forward-thinking approach led to the launch of India’s first corporate bond exchange-traded fund (ETF), the Bharat Bond ETF, in 2019, a landmark development in the country’s financial sector.
Her vision extended beyond growth. Radhika emphasized governance, risk awareness, and solution-oriented products, which positioned Edelweiss among the top 15 asset managers in India.
Leadership Beyond the Boardroom
Radhika Gupta is not just a financial leader; she is a storyteller, motivator, and role model. Her viral YouTube video titled “The Girl with a Broken Neck” has inspired over 110,000 viewers, proving that vulnerability can be a source of immense strength. She openly shares her experiences with rejection, struggles with self-image, and the pressures of leadership, making her relatable to both professionals and young aspirants.
She has also authored Limitless, a bestselling self-help book that encourages individuals to invest in themselves, embrace their uniqueness, and break mental barriers that hold them back.
Recognition and Impact
Over the years, Radhika Gupta has been recognized with numerous awards:
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Fortune India 50 Most Powerful Women in Business – 2020
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Economic Times 40 Under 40 – 2021
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Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum – 2022
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Forbes Women Power – Self-Made Women – 2022
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Business Today Most Powerful Women in Indian Business – 2019 & 2021
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Business Book of the Year (Self-Help) for Limitless – 2023
She also served as Vice Chairperson of the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) between 2021 and 2023, helping shape industry policies and practices.
In 2023, she became a household name as a judge and investor on Shark Tank India Season 3, inspiring millions of budding entrepreneurs with her sharp insights and encouraging words.
Personal Life and Values
Radhika is married to investor and fellow finance professional, Nalin Moniz, and they are parents to their son, Remy. Despite her demanding career, she emphasizes the importance of balance, family, and personal well-being. She is also an advocate for mental health and body positivity, encouraging others to embrace imperfections as part of their unique story.
One of her most powerful quotes captures her philosophy:
“Be aggressive enough in business that you don’t sleep during the day, but conservative enough that you don’t have sleepless nights.” – Radhika Gupta
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