Andreessen Horowitz denies report of India office, calls it ‘fake news’

Core Viewpoint - Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) has denied reports about opening an office in India, labeling them as "entirely fake news" [1][2]. Group 1: Office Expansion and Denial - Indian media reported that a16z was planning to establish a physical office in Bengaluru and hire a local partner, but this was dismissed by a general partner [1][2]. - Anish Acharya, a general partner at a16z, confirmed the denial on social media, emphasizing his admiration for India while rejecting the claims [2]. Group 2: International Strategy - The denial of the India office comes amid a16z's scaling back of international ambitions, including the closure of its London office just 18 months after opening [3]. - The firm cited a shift in strategy and more favorable regulatory conditions in the U.S. as reasons for the London office closure, while stating it would continue investing internationally through remote teams [3]. Group 3: Investment Focus in India - India has not been a primary focus for a16z compared to other U.S. venture firms like Accel and Lightspeed, with its only significant investment being in crypto exchange CoinSwitch during a $260 million funding round in 2021 [4]. - Although a16z reportedly sought to invest about $500 million in Indian startups, it has not made any major investments in the country since [5]. Group 4: Challenges in Emerging Markets - a16z co-founder Marc Andreessen previously noted the challenges of expanding into emerging markets, highlighting the hands-on nature of venture capital and the importance of understanding local partners [6].