Know Your Fund Manager: Rajasa K., Vice President & Portfolio Manager - India Equities, Templeton Global Investments

Let's start with your personal story
I grew up across different cities in India, which gave me exposure to different environments. A focus on education and financial prudence were strong family values growing up. I am an engineering graduate, which gave me a quantitative and problem-solving foundation, and went on to complete an MBA, which deepened my understanding of accounting, corporate finance, and investments.

How did you land this job?
I began my career in equity research, initially as an analyst building financial models, tracking sectoral developments, and supporting senior colleagues on stock coverage. Over time, I developed a deeper understanding of different sectors and the linkage between fundamental research, valuations, and portfolio outcomes. That eventually led me into portfolio management.


Which funds are you currently managing?
I currently manage the hybrid schemes at Franklin Templeton India and am co-portfolio manager in the Franklin India Flexi Cap Fund, ELSS Tax Saver, Value and Dividend Yield Funds.

What is your investment philosophy and how will you describe your investment strategy?
Predominantly GARP, i.e., businesses with sustainable growth at reasonable valuations, with an eye on risk. Assessment of management quality, execution capabilities, and durable moats in a business forms a major part of the investment decision. I am also comfortable with traditional value and contrarian opportunities.

What excites you most about managing other people's money?
The opportunity and responsibility of contributing towards people's life goals, combined with the intellectual and analytical rigour of public market investing.