Latest news with #Kaushik
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
21-year-old MIT dropouts raise $32M at $300M valuation led by Insight
Karun Kaushik and Selin Kocalar weren't planning to raise a Series A so soon. Their AI compliance startup, Delve, which announced a $3 million seed round in January, was growing fast and signing customers at a steady clip. Then, inbound interest started rolling in, COO Kocalar told TechCrunch. Delve, which automates regulatory compliance with AI agents, ended up fielding multiple term sheets, eventually closing a $32 million Series A at a $300 million valuation. The round was led by Insight Partners, which took up most of the round, with participation from CISOs at Fortune 500 companies. Insight has been 'amazing to work with, and we felt they were the right long-term partner for us,' said the COO. Delve's new valuation represents a roughly 10x jump from its previous round. Similarly, its customer base has grown from the 100 companies it reported back in January to over 500, many of them fast-growing AI startups like recently minted AI unicorn Lovable, Bland, and Wispr Flow. And while the 2-year-old company, made up of AI researchers from MIT, Stanford, and Berkeley, has seemingly struck gold by using AI to eliminate hundreds of hours of manual processes, its story began much differently. Kaushik and Kocalar met as classmates during their freshman year at MIT. Both had deep interests in AI and health tech. Kaushik had already scaled a COVID diagnostic system to thousands of users during the pandemic. In 2023, they began working on an AI-powered medical scribe to help doctors handle patient documentation. However, handling sensitive healthcare information meant they quickly encountered the costly and time-consuming world of HIPAA compliance. Instead of continuing with the medical scribe, they started building tools to help other companies get HIPAA-compliant faster and more affordably. That pivot got the team into Y Combinator last year and helped them raise their seed round from General Catalyst, FundersClub, Soma Capital, and others. The founders dropped out during their sophomore year in 2023. What started with HIPAA quickly expanded. 'As our customer base grew, they started asking for support with other frameworks: SOC 2, PCI, GDPR, ISO, basically the whole alphabet soup of compliance,' Kocalar narrated. Compliance paperwork can be necessary in everything from launching products to closing enterprise deals. But instead of driving growth, its manual work can become a bottleneck. 'Compliance frameworks are standardized. Businesses aren't,' says CEO Kaushik. 'That mismatch is why traditional software breaks down and teams fall back to duct-taped workflows across email, Slack, and shared drives.' Delve replaces that busywork with AI agents that run in the background (after integrating with customers' tools) like internal team members. These agents collect evidence, write reports, update audit logs, and track configuration changes across fragmented systems, automating compliance workflows in real time. Kocalar says compliance is just the wedge into broader back-office operations. Long-term, the AI startup wants to automate a billion hours of other work — eventually expanding into adjacent areas like cybersecurity, risk, and internal governance. Insight Partners' interest reflects this roadmap. 'Since compliance touches every part of how a business runs, from scaling operations to closing deals to building customer trust, modernizing this function will modernize the entire organization,' said Praveen Akkiraju, managing director at Insight. 'That's what makes Delve's approach so important.' Still, the startup won't be without competition. Several AI companies are emerging with agents to automate business workflows. In addition, larger AI labs like OpenAI are releasing general-purpose agents capable of performing complex tasks. That said, Kocalar says these developments are a validation, not a threat, to Delve's business. She points to the company's domain depth in contrast to more general-purpose agents. 'We're positioning ourselves to improve as AI advances and labs roll out more sophisticated agentic technologies. But what truly sets us apart is the deep, domain-specific knowledge we're building into the platform,' she said. 'Compliance is always shifting as new regulations emerge and existing ones evolve, with companies interpreting them in different ways. That's where Delve stands out.' Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Standard
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
Odgers India elevates Kaushik DasGupta to Managing Partner; Dr. Prasad Medury to serve as Chairman India
VMPL New Delhi [India], July 21: Odgers, a leading global executive search and leadership advisory firm, today announced a significant leadership transition for its India operations. Kaushik DasGupta, who leads the Consumer, Retail & Media practice in Asia-Pacific, has been promoted to Managing Partner - India. Concurrently, Dr. Prasad Medury, who has successfully led the India business for the past eight years, will continue to serve as Chairman India. Kaushik DasGupta has been a pivotal force for Odgers since his arrival. He took the helm of the Consumer, Retail & Media practice in India at the start of 2020 and has more recently expanded his leadership to continue driving the sector's ongoing growth across the APAC region. Under his guidance, the Consumer practice in India has grown to become the firm's second-largest practice in the country, after Industrial, demonstrating remarkable success with both global and local clients, and consistently supporting them in their global expansion plans. A seasoned veteran in executive search, Kaushik has dedicated nearly his entire career to the field. Prior to joining Odgers, he has held long-term Partner roles with two of India's largest and most successful search firms, both affiliated with global networks. "I am delighted to announce Kaushik DasGupta's promotion to Managing Partner - India," said Mark Braithwaite, Managing Director - APAC. "Kaushik possesses an infectious positive energy and an unwavering obsession with delivering quality work for our clients. I am incredibly proud to welcome him into the APAC management team and have every confidence that he has the passion and capability to lead Odgers India to even greater heights as the Indian economy continues to thrive." Prasad's tenure as Managing Director has been transformative for Odgers in India. Since he joined eight years ago, the India business has experienced exponential growth, driven by a strong focus on Indian companies, as well as Multinational corporations. Prasad will continue to be a vital asset to the firm as Chairman India. He will manage an extended handover of his Country Head responsibilities over the coming months, after which he will continue to lead the firm's robust Industrial and Education practices. "Leading Odgers India for the past eight years has been an immense privilege. I am incredibly proud of the growth we've achieved and the strong foundation we've built. I have full confidence in Kaushik's leadership and vision to take the firm to its next phase of accelerated success, ensuring trust & continued excellence for our clients." says Dr. Prasad Medury, Chairman India, Odgers. Kaushik DasGupta, Managing Partner India, Odgers added, "I am honoured and excited to step into the role of Managing Partner for Odgers India. Prasad has set an incredibly high bar, and I am committed to building upon his legacy, driving further growth, and ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional value to our clients across India, while extending our impact across global markets." About Odgers: Odgers is a leading global executive search and leadership advisory firm, headquartered in London UK, with over 59 offices & operations across 33 countries. It has been ranked as the top 6th among leading executive search firms globally. For over 60 years, Odgers has helped organisations all over the world find senior talent to drive their business agendas. This includes reputed international leadership hiring assignments such as the Organizing Committee for the 2032 Olympic & Paralympic Games in Brisbane, Sporting Director for Newcastle United Football Club, CEO of Integrated and Specialist Medicine Clinical Group, part of the UK NHS Foundation Trust, to name a few. In India, our services include board appointments, leadership & board advisory services and executive search at the leadership level. Our focus in India is on the Industrial, Consumer, Technology & Education sectors where we work with both Indian & as well as foreign multinationals. We also assist clients identify & hire exceptional leadership talent to drive their Sustainability & DE & I initiatives. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
The Wire
2 days ago
- Business
- The Wire
Odgers India elevates Kaushik DasGupta to Managing Partner; Dr. Prasad Medury to serve as Chairman India
India – July 21, 2025: Odgers, a leading global executive search and leadership advisory firm, today announced a significant leadership transition for its India operations. Kaushik DasGupta, who leads the Consumer, Retail & Media practice in Asia-Pacific, has been promoted to Managing Partner - India. Concurrently, Dr. Prasad Medury, who has successfully led the India business for the past eight years, will continue to serve as Chairman India. Kaushik DasGupta has been a pivotal force for Odgers since his arrival. He took the helm of the Consumer, Retail & Media practice in India at the start of 2020 and has more recently expanded his leadership to continue driving the sector's ongoing growth across the APAC region. Under his guidance, the Consumer practice in India has grown to become the firm's second-largest practice in the country, after Industrial, demonstrating remarkable success with both global and local clients, and consistently supporting them in their global expansion plans. A seasoned veteran in executive search, Kaushik has dedicated nearly his entire career to the field. Prior to joining Odgers, he has held long-term Partner roles with two of India's largest and most successful search firms, both affiliated with global networks. "I am delighted to announce Kaushik DasGupta's promotion to Managing Partner – India,' said Mark Braithwaite, Managing Director - APAC. "Kaushik possesses an infectious positive energy and an unwavering obsession with delivering quality work for our clients. I am incredibly proud to welcome him into the APAC management team and have every confidence that he has the passion and capability to lead Odgers India to even greater heights as the Indian economy continues to thrive." Prasad's tenure as Managing Director has been transformative for Odgers in India. Since he joined eight years ago, the India business has experienced exponential growth, driven by a strong focus on Indian companies, as well as Multinational corporations. Prasad will continue to be a vital asset to the firm as Chairman India. He will manage an extended handover of his Country Head responsibilities over the coming months, after which he will continue to lead the firm's robust Industrial and Education practices. "Leading Odgers India for the past eight years has been an immense privilege. I am incredibly proud of the growth we've achieved and the strong foundation we've built. I have full confidence in Kaushik's leadership and vision to take the firm to its next phase of accelerated success, ensuring trust & continued excellence for our clients.' says Dr. Prasad Medury, Chairman India, Odgers. Kaushik DasGupta, Managing Partner India, Odgers added, "I am honoured and excited to step into the role of Managing Partner for Odgers India. Prasad has set an incredibly high bar, and I am committed to building upon his legacy, driving further growth, and ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional value to our clients across India, while extending our impact across global markets." About Odgers: Odgers is a leading global executive search and leadership advisory firm, headquartered in London UK, with over 59 offices & operations across 33 countries. It has been ranked as the top 6th among leading executive search firms globally. For over 60 years, Odgers has helped organisations all over the world find senior talent to drive their business agendas. This includes reputed international leadership hiring assignments such as the Organizing Committee for the 2032 Olympic & Paralympic Games in Brisbane, Sporting Director for Newcastle United Football Club, CEO of Integrated and Specialist Medicine Clinical Group, part of the UK NHS Foundation Trust, to name a few. In India, our services include board appointments, leadership & board advisory services and executive search at the leadership level. Our focus in India is on the Industrial, Consumer, Technology & Education sectors where we work with both Indian & as well as foreign multinationals. We also assist clients identify & hire exceptional leadership talent to drive their Sustainability & DE&I initiatives. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.).
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
'A hug from parents costs Rs 1.5 lakh': CA points out the hidden cost of life outside India
While social media often paints a glossy picture of life abroad—gleaming roads, skyscrapers, spotless subways, and picture-perfect brunches—CA Nitin Kaushik is here with a reality check that's now striking a chord with thousands. Taking to X, Kaushik shared a brutally honest post titled 'Still dreaming of moving abroad? Here's the reality they don't show you!'—a reflection on the emotional, cultural, and financial toll that comes with chasing the so-called foreign dream. He begins by addressing the emotional cost. Loneliness, he writes, is a silent tax you pay every day. Festivals lose their warmth, family dinners become video calls, and you blow out birthday candles alone. "A simple hug from parents costs a 15-hour flight and a Rs 1.5 lakh ticket,' Kaushik laments. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category Operations Management Artificial Intelligence Design Thinking Others Data Science Data Science MCA Degree Project Management healthcare Technology PGDM Management others Healthcare MBA Digital Marketing Public Policy Data Analytics Leadership Cybersecurity Finance Product Management CXO Skills you'll gain: Quality Management & Lean Six Sigma Analytical Tools Supply Chain Management & Strategies Service Operations Management Duration: 10 Months IIM Lucknow IIML Executive Programme in Strategic Operations Management & Supply Chain Analytics Starts on Jan 27, 2024 Get Details He then turns to a detail many Indians take for granted: domestic help. In India, a maid is often a part of daily life. Abroad? Be ready to wash, clean, and cook—often after a full day's work. And if you try to outsource it? Prepare to shell out $25 to $50 an hour. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like If you have a mouse, play this game for 1 minute Navy Quest Undo Kaushik also takes a hard look at healthcare, calling it 'a highway to bankruptcy.' An ambulance ride can cost over Rs 80,000, and even basic tests can leave a dent in your wallet. 'In India, quality healthcare is still within reach for the middle class,' he notes. — Finance_Bareek (@Finance_Bareek) Racism, too, isn't left out. Whether subtle or direct, Kaushik says it exists through judgments based on skin tone, accents, or cultural identity. For those raising children abroad, Kaushik highlights the cultural dilemma. Indian values often clash with Western lifestyles, leaving kids caught between two worlds. 'In India, sanskaar comes naturally from the environment,' he says. Even the financial freedom that often lures people abroad isn't without caveats. 'You earn in dollars, but you spend in dollars too,' Kaushik warns. Every outing, meal, or activity adds up quickly, whereas in India, he argues, a moderate income can offer a royal lifestyle. He ends with a stark contrast many overseas Indians relate to: identity. No matter how long you live abroad, the question 'Where are you originally from?' never quite disappears. 'In India, you are, and always will be—Apna.' His final thought? 'Living abroad gives money. Living in India gives meaning.'
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Tax-free, risk-free, and effort-free. But CA says many employees make mistakes that cost lakhs in lost savings
You may think you are investing smart, but you are actually losing out on earning crores and a life of early retirement. Taking to X, chartered accountant Nitin Kaushik explained that while stocks and mutual funds may promise a higher return, employee provident funds (EPFs) are an underrated earning tool that guarantees steady earnings but are overlooked by most. Understanding the Basics of EPF The Employees' Provident Fund, often dismissed as a routine salary deduction, is actually a government-backed savings tool that quietly builds long-term wealth, argued the CA. Under this scheme, 12% of your basic monthly salary is automatically contributed towards your EPF. What most people don't fully appreciate is that your employer is also legally required to contribute an equivalent amount, essentially giving you an additional 12% in free savings every month. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category healthcare Finance CXO Data Analytics Data Science Product Management Artificial Intelligence Others Leadership Data Science MCA Healthcare Cybersecurity Management MBA Degree Operations Management Design Thinking Digital Marketing Technology Project Management Public Policy others PGDM Skills you'll gain: Duration: 11 Months IIM Lucknow CERT-IIML Healthcare Management India Starts on undefined Get Details — Finance_Bareek (@Finance_Bareek) For the financial year 2024–25, EPF contributions earn an annual interest of 8.15%. These returns are not only guaranteed by the government but also entirely exempt from income tax. With no requirement for personal effort, trading knowledge, or app-based management, EPF emerges as one of the most secure ways to accumulate retirement funds. The Long-Term Value: Simple Calculations with Major Impact Kaushik explained that an individual with a basic monthly salary of Rs 40,000 contributes Rs 4,800 to EPF. Their employer adds another Rs 4,800, making the total monthly contribution Rs 9,600. At the current interest rate of 8.15%, this individual could accumulate Rs 1.02 crore in 25 years—without including future salary increases. This significant sum is built passively, without the stress of tracking markets or fearing losses. Unlike investments requiring active management, EPF simply compounds in the background, steadily building wealth while you go about your daily life. Why EPF Outperforms Many Investment Alternatives There are several reasons why EPF outshines traditional savings and even many stock market portfolios, stated Kaushik: The interest earned is tax-free It typically offers higher returns than fixed deposits It is not exposed to stock market volatility It builds a habit of disciplined saving The employer's contribution accelerates compounding It eliminates emotional investment decisions such as panic-selling or timing the market These factors combined make EPF an incredibly strong foundation for long-term wealth creation . Common Mistakes That Cost You Dearly Despite the numerous advantages, many individuals fail to fully leverage the EPF system. Some of the most frequent and financially damaging missteps include Withdrawing EPF funds prematurely Neglecting dormant or past EPF accounts Not activating their Universal Account Number (UAN) Failing to update Know Your Customer (KYC) details Ignoring EPF balances after switching jobs These mistakes often lead to lost savings that could have significantly boosted one's retirement fund. When Is EPF Withdrawal Allowed? While EPF is designed as a retirement fund, there are specific scenarios where early withdrawals are permitted. These include: Funding a marriage (self or family) Paying for medical treatment Buying or constructing a house Pursuing education Facing unemployment for more than two months Permanent relocation to another country Even with these allowances, early withdrawal should be a carefully considered decision given its long-term impact on retirement savings. Who Should Invest in EPF? EPF is mandatory for salaried individuals whose basic income is ₹15,000 or less and who work in organisations with 20 or more employees. However, even high-income earners can voluntarily participate by informing their human resources department to activate or maintain their UAN. Choosing to stay invested in EPF can help high earners diversify their portfolio with a low-risk, stable growth component. The Debate: Stocks vs. EPF While stock investments may offer higher returns for those who are financially savvy, they come with considerable risks and require active monitoring, said the CA. For the average person unfamiliar with market fluctuations, EPF offers a reliable, low-stress path to wealth creation. Choosing stocks without expertise is akin to saying you prefer homemade meals but eating out daily—it sounds appealing but doesn't reflect consistent long-term discipline. EPF's Real Strength Lies in Stability Ultimately, EPF is not about exciting returns or beating the market. It's about providing Reliable, tax-free growth A steady stream of contributions from your employer Financial security without the stress of managing investments A disciplined savings routine Long-term peace of mind In an investment landscape full of noise and volatility, EPF stands out as a quiet, consistent performer — and a powerful tool for anyone aiming for a secure and early retirement.
