Citi has hired 10 senior professionals in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region this year and anticipates further talent acquisition. Kaustubh Kulkarni, Citi's Managing Director and Head of Investment Banking for Asia-Pacific, confirmed these hires and stated the bank's intention to continue building its team. This move aligns with Citi's broader strategy to enhance its investment banking capabilities and capture more deal work in the region.
The strategic hiring efforts are focused on key markets like Japan, China, and Australia, aiming to strengthen cross-border M&A execution. The bank is targeting sector specialists, particularly in technology, media, and telecom, to capitalize on governance reforms and shareholder pressure driving divestitures and overseas tie-ups. This targeted approach contrasts with broader headcount expansions, as Citi focuses on specific industries and mandates where it sees strong growth potential.
Recent notable hires include Anthony Yap as head of leveraged finance for Australia and New Zealand, Maria Chua as a director covering leveraged and syndicated loans in Southeast Asia, and two additions in August 2025: Vikram Chavali to head global asset managers across APAC and Deepak Dangayach as co-head of debt capital markets for the region. Additionally, in July 2026, Citi expanded its Asia FX options desk in Singapore with three senior traders: Eric Poon, Richeng Zheng, and Ying Zhou, bolstering its market-making and risk management capabilities.
