Bank of America Strengthens India Investment Banking Unit with Key JPMorgan Hire

 In a strategic push to regain momentum in India’s high-stakes investment banking arena, Bank of America (BofA) has brought on Satish Arcot, a seasoned executive from JPMorgan Chase & Co., to head its India equity capital markets business. This move is seen as part of the U.S. banking giant’s broader effort to reassert itself in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, following internal turbulence and a dip in market rankings.

Rebuilding After a Leadership Void

Arcot’s appointment comes at a crucial time. In late 2023, BofA’s India investment banking unit suffered a significant reputational hit after three senior dealmakers exited amid allegations related to misconduct in equity offerings. Since then, the bank has been in rebuild mode—reworking its leadership structure and realigning its market focus.

Earlier this year, Vikram Sahu, BofA’s global head of equity research, was named India country head, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to the region. In April, Mandar Donde, a longtime BofA insider, was elevated to lead investment banking operations in India. Arcot’s onboarding is viewed as the next key step in that restoration strategy.

Who Is Satish Arcot?

With over 20 years in the financial services sector, Arcot brings deep experience in equity capital markets and a strong track record from JPMorgan, where he served as executive director for the past four years. Based in Mumbai, Arcot will join BofA as a Managing Director later this year. Though Arcot has not publicly commented on the move, sources say his expertise in large-scale stock issuances and advisory work made him a natural fit for BofA’s renewed ambitions in India.

India: A Renewed Frontier for Bank of America

BofA, which has been operating in India since 1964, is doubling down on its core services for large corporates, government entities, and institutional clients. While the bank ranked seventh in equity capital market advisory in India in 2024, it failed to crack the top 10 for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory—an area it is now expected to aggressively pursue under the new leadership.

With India’s capital markets heating up, driven by surging IPO activity, increased FII interest, and the country’s growing GDP, global financial institutions are re-evaluating their positioning. BofA’s recent appointments are seen as both a course correction and a forward-looking move to harness the next wave of growth.

Competitive Landscape Heats Up

The Indian investment banking landscape remains highly competitive, with players like Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan, and Axis Capital consistently leading in both ECM and M&A league tables. Arcot’s appointment could allow BofA to regain market share and close the performance gap with rivals.

Insiders suggest Arcot will be tasked with not just reviving the equity business, but also strengthening relationships with fast-growing Indian startups, unicorns, and family-run conglomerates seeking capital through both public and private channels.

What’s Next for BofA India?

BofA’s renewed interest in India aligns with global trends where major banks are shifting focus to emerging markets amid slower growth in the West. With a refreshed leadership team, aggressive hiring plans, and a market ripe for financial innovation, the bank seems well-positioned for a comeback.

Still, challenges remain—from regulatory scrutiny to reputational recovery and fierce competition. But with Arcot and other seasoned leaders now on board, BofA appears ready to reclaim its stake in the country’s capital markets story.