MC Insider | A startup founder's bet on longevity and foreign law firms circle India

Whispers in the corridors of India’s startup elite point to a radical pivot. A prominent executive has shed a remarkable number of kilos and seems to be on a mission that’s more Silicon Valley than Koramangala. The executive is on a mission to track every beat, breath and vital sign: we’re talking two health rings, two fitness watches, and a small army of bio-tracking apps. The goal is nothing short of radical life extension. Yep, this founder is gunning to stretch his lifespan to 150 years. India’s very own Bryan Johnson?

First came the Dentons-Link Legal alliance in 2023. Then came the more recent CMS-IndusLaw announcement. With the Bar Council of India notifying rules for the registration and regulation of foreign law firms in India, legal circles have been awash with speculation about which overseas law firm is next. Will takeovers now replace mere tie-ups? Will old alliances be revived? Are mid-sized Indian firms the sweet spot for overseas suitors?

A few little birdies told us two foreign firms are exploring the opportunity seriously - one that reminds you of the address of a well-known pipe-smoking detective and another known for its mid-market M&A practice.

One of the birdies, however, mused: “What if a foreign firm just cherry-picks the star partners of a bunch of Indian firms for its Indian operations?” Hmmm...the plot will only thicken from here.