Abizer Diwanji–Founder & Strategic Advisor

Advisory to Emirates NBD on Acquisition of RBL Bank (2025)

Financial Advisor to Emirates NBD for its acquisition of a controlling stake in RBL Bank through a USD 3 billion primary infusion, marking the largest FDI and equity raise in India’s banking sector to date.
The deal also represents the first majority acquisition of a profitable Indian bank by a foreign bank, highlighting NeoStrat’s strategic advisory expertise in cross-border financial transactions.
Structured and advised on transaction strategy, valuation, and regulatory approach in coordination with global advisors EY - Investment Banking and J.P. Morgan.
The transaction strengthens India-UAE economic and financial linkages, aligning with the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) vision.
Landmark milestone establishing NeoStrat Advisors’ credentials in large-scale, high-value cross-border banking deals and foreign strategic investment advisory.

Founder of a commercial counsel firm specializing in advisory, equity-led growth, dispute resolution, and capital structure–based transactions.
Partners with industry experts to leverage ideas into value for all stakeholders.

Head of Financial Services & Restructuring; built a 2,500+ member practice over 13 years.
Led major transformations in the financial services sector and served on various regulatory committees.
Directed significant M&A deals and capacity-building initiatives.
Regrouped and scaled EY's Restructuring and Turnaround business, achieving marquee resolutions.
Key contributor to the creation of India's Bad Bank (NARCL) and the SHASHAKT report for distressed asset resolution.
Leveraged EY's clients and teams to turn ideas into value.

COO of India's largest inner-city redevelopment project.
Oversaw community relocation, land acquisition, and stakeholder management.
Directed significant M&A deals and capacity-building initiatives.
Gained transformative experience working with lower strata communities and diverse stakeholders beyond the corporate sector.
Helped implement the Syedna’s vision to create value for the community.

Joined KPMG in 1993 after completing CA training at Arthur Andersen.
Arthur Andersen instilled work ethic and interpersonal skills; KPMG became the foundation for professional diversity.
Spent 17 years at KPMG, gaining end-to-end experience—from audit to co-founding Transaction Services to Investment Banking.
Built a strong reputation in the Financial Services sector with KPMG as a key enabler.
KPMG fostered his ability to ideate and create value through strategic thinking.
Learned how effective leaders build teams, drive stakeholder value, and nurture future leaders.
As Partner, led critical audits, capital structure deals, and cross-border acquisitions.
Part of KPMG India’s first-ever audit: ANZ Grindlays Bank.
Middle East stints with KPMG and ANZ Grindlays shaped his belief in trust and cultural and leverage trusted relationships to create value.

Early career in the Middle East, New Zealand, and India in financial audit and special situations.
Developed a professional foundation through work at Coopers & Lybrand, Auckland, immediately after university-gaining independence and cultural exposure.
Built rigor, accuracy, and communication skills at Arthur Andersen.