Banker's Bet: From Boardrooms to Billionaire Beauty

Falguni Nayar, a prominent figure in Indian finance, left her late-forties investment banking career to establish Nykaa, a beauty and fashion retail company, in 2012. Her decision stemmed from a desire for ownership and a keen observation of market inefficiencies.

Nykaa's journey began with an initial $2 million investment and an inventory-led model, a strategic choice that prioritized authenticity and control over the then-popular marketplace approach. This disciplined strategy, rooted in her banking background, focused on reduced risk and operational complexity, setting Nykaa apart.

The company's public listing in November 2021 was highly anticipated, with its valuation soaring to approximately $13 billion, instantly making Falguni Nayar India's first self-made female billionaire. Nykaa's financial performance has been robust, reporting Rs 7,950 crore in revenue for FY25, demonstrating sustained growth.