Biography of Sat Pal Khattar: A Journey of Entrepreneurship, Investment, and Social Contribution
Biography of Sat Pal Khattar:
Sat Pal Khattar is an Indian-origin entrepreneur and legal
professional residing in Singapore. He established Khattar Wong LLP, which has
emerged as one of the prominent law firms in Singapore. Additionally, he serves
as the chairman of Khattar Holdings, a private investment company.
Sat Pal Khattar has held significant leadership positions,
including Chairman of the Singapore Business Federation, Co-chairman of the
Singapore-India Partnership Foundation. Apart from his legal endeavors, Sat Pal
Khattar has ventured into private investments, demonstrating his
entrepreneurial acumen and diversified business interests.
According to corporate shareholdings filed for March 31,
2024, individuals matching Satpal Khattar's profile publicly hold shares in 6
stocks with a combined net worth exceeding Rs 167.5 Crore.
The Accomplishments of Sat Pal Khattar
Sat Pal Khattar, born on November 22, 1942, in Bhera, India,
is a distinguished figure known for his roles as a lawyer, businessman, and
leader within the Indian community. He is renowned for founding Khattar Wong
& Partners, a prominent law firm in Singapore, and serves as the chairman
of Khattar Holdings, a private investment company.
Key Leadership Roles:
In addition to his business ventures, Khattar holds several
significant leadership positions, including:
- Life Trustee of the Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA)
- Co-chairman of the Singapore-India Partnership Foundation
- Board Member of Haw Par Corporation
Notable Recognitions:
Sat Pal Khattar's contributions have been recognized through
various awards and honors. He has been honored multiple times at the May Day
Awards and received the Public Administration Medal (Silver) during the
National Day Awards in 1972.
The Early Years of Sat Pal Khattar
Sat Pal Khattar's Journey from Adversity to Success
Background:
Born in 1942 in Bhera, India, Sat Pal Khattar's early life
was marked by challenges. His father, a Punjabi sporting-goods salesman, and
his family faced separation during the partition of India in 1947. Despite
these hardships, the family eventually reunited and relocated to Singapore in
the 1950s, seeking new opportunities.
Teenage Years:
During his teenage years, Khattar actively assisted his
father in managing their sporting goods business at Collyer Quay, Singapore.
Even while pursuing his education, he remained dedicated to supporting his
family's business endeavors, demonstrating a strong work ethic from a young
age.
Education Journey:
Khattar's academic journey led him to Raffles Institution,
where he completed his studies and later sat for his 'A' Levels as a private
candidate. He pursued his passion for law by enrolling at the University of
Singapore, where he earned an honors degree in 1966. Subsequently, he pursued
further academic excellence by obtaining a master's degree in 1970, laying the
foundation for his future career endeavors.
Sat Pal Khattar: A Distinguished Career Journey
Early Public Service Career:
Following his graduation in 1966, Sat Pal Khattar embarked
on a notable career in the civil service of Singapore. He started as a deputy
public prosecutor and state counsel at the Attorney-General’s Chamber,
demonstrating his legal acumen. Khattar swiftly progressed within the ranks,
becoming a senior legal officer at the Inland Revenue Department by 1971, a
remarkable achievement that earned him the Public Administrative Medal (Silver)
at the National Day Awards the following year.
Establishing Khattar Wong & Partners:
In 1974, Khattar ventured into private practice by founding
his law firm, initially named Sat Pal Khattar Co. The firm, later rebranded as
Khattar Wong & Partners, has since grown into one of Singapore's largest
and most respected law firms. Khattar's leadership and expertise significantly
contributed to its success.
Transition to Investment Ventures:
Though officially retiring from the law firm in 2000,
Khattar remained actively engaged in business as the chairman of Khattar
Holdings, his private investment firm. He diversified his interests by assuming
chairmanship or directorship roles in various organizations, showcasing his
versatile leadership abilities and strategic vision.
Promoting Bilateral Trade and Investments:
With a keen interest in India's economic landscape, Khattar
began investing in the country during the early 1990s. His experiences in the
Indian market enabled him to play a pivotal role in fostering bilateral trade
and investments between Singapore and India. He served as the former chairman
of Network India and continues to co-chair the Singapore-India Partnership
Foundation, contributing to strengthening ties between the two nations.
Diverse Organizational Engagements:
Khattar's influence extends beyond business and legal spheres. He has held numerous leadership positions, including chairman of the Raffles Institution Board of Governors and chairman of the Singapore Business Federation. Additionally, his involvement in various advisory boards and councils underscores his commitment to public service and community development.
Satpal Khattar's Portfolio Diversification
Sector Analysis:
Castings, Forgings & Fastners: 91.98%
Construction: 3.25%
IT - Software: 2.63%
Miscellaneous: 1.40%
Pharmaceuticals: 0.50%
Industry Analysis:
Pharmaceuticals - Indian - Bulk Drugs & Formulation M/S:
91.98%
Construction - Civil / Turnkey - Large: 3.25%
Floriculture / Tissue Culture: 2.63%
Computers - Software - Medium / Small: 1.40%
Diverse Investment Strategy:
Satpal Khattar's investment portfolio demonstrates a
strategic diversification across various sectors and industries. With a
significant allocation in castings, forgings, and fasteners, followed by
construction and IT software, Khattar's investments reflect a balanced approach
aimed at mitigating risks and maximizing returns. Additionally, his ventures
into pharmaceuticals and miscellaneous sectors further enhance the diversity
and resilience of his investment portfolio. This diversified strategy
underscores Khattar's astute investment acumen and his ability to identify
lucrative opportunities across different sectors and industries.
Sat Pal Khattar: A Journey of Entrepreneurship and
Investment
Transition to Investment: Khattar Holdings and Stock Market
Ventures
In 1974, Sat Pal Khattar made a pivotal decision to leave
his position in the revenue department and venture into entrepreneurship. He
began with a small farm before entering into a partnership with property lawyer
David Wong. Together, they founded KhattarWong LLP, which swiftly gained
recognition as one of Singapore's premier law firms within a span of just 2-3
years.
Success in Indian Investments: Multibagger Returns and
Strategic Concentration
By 2000, Khattar decided to transition from legal practice
to focus on private investments, leading to the establishment of Khattar
Holdings. This move allowed him to diversify his portfolio by investing in
various companies, alongside his active participation in the stock market.
Eventually, in 2009, Khattar fully divested from KhattarWong LLP to concentrate
entirely on his investment endeavors.
Portfolio Strategy: Concentrated Investments and Notable
Holdings
Khattar's investments in India have been substantial,
amounting to over 750 crore rupees. Notably, his investments in companies like
IIFL and Gayatri Projects have yielded significant returns, with multibagger
returns recorded in holdings such as Sequent Scientific and Intense
Technologies. Over the past eight years, IIFL alone has provided him with an
impressive 900% return on investment.
Biography of Sat Pal Khattar: A Journey of Entrepreneurship, Investment, and Social Contribution / Investor Sat Pal Khattar: / Bussinessman
Visionary Investment: Early Backing of HDFC Bank
His investment portfolio reflects a strategy of concentrated
investment, with a significant portion allocated to holdings like IIFL, Gayatri
Projects, and Stribes Pharma. For instance, his stake in Sequent Scientific
generated an 800% return in just six years. Khattar's foresight is evident in
his early investment of 4 million dollars in HDFC Bank when it was still a
small institution—a decision that has paid off handsomely given the bank's
subsequent growth and success.
Continued Philanthropic Contributions:
Amid his professional pursuits, Khattar remains dedicated to
philanthropy and community welfare. He serves as a life trustee of SINDA and
vice-president of the Singapore Indian Education Trust, demonstrating his
enduring commitment to supporting educational initiatives and social causes.
Legacy of Leadership:
Sat Pal Khattar's multifaceted career journey reflects a
legacy of leadership, entrepreneurship, and service. His unwavering dedication
to excellence, coupled with a passion for promoting economic cooperation and
social welfare, continues to inspire and shape Singapore's business and legal
landscape.
Recognizing Sat Pal Khattar's Achievements: A Trailblazer's
Awards Journey
Labour Movement Contributions:
Sat Pal Khattar's significant contributions to the labour
movement have earned him several prestigious accolades over the years. Among
these, he received the NTUC Friend of Labour Award in 1979, followed by the
Meritorious Service Award in 1987 and the Distinguished Service Award in 1994.
His unwavering dedication and impactful efforts were further recognized with
the Distinguished Service (Star) Award in 2001, showcasing his profound
influence and commitment to labour welfare.
International Recognition:
In 2002, Khattar's contributions transcended borders when he
was honored with the Overseas Indian Award by the Priyadarshni Academy, a
testament to his global impact and leadership in promoting socio-economic development.
This international acknowledgment underscored his role as a distinguished
advocate for community empowerment and progress.
Championing Singapore-India Relations:
Khattar's endeavors in fostering bilateral ties between
Singapore and India were acknowledged by the Singapore Indian Chamber of
Commerce & Industry (SICCI). In 2009, he was bestowed with the prestigious
SICCI-DBS Singapore-India Business Award, recognizing his instrumental role in
promoting business collaboration and investment between the two nations. This
award highlighted his pivotal contributions to strengthening economic
partnerships and enhancing trade relations.
Padma Shri Award:
One of the most esteemed honors bestowed upon Sat Pal
Khattar was the Padma Shri (Lotus Award) in 2011. Presented during the Annual
Republic Day awards in India, the Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian
honor conferred by the Indian government. This prestigious recognition
celebrated Khattar's outstanding achievements and exemplary service,
reaffirming his enduring legacy and profound impact on society.
In summary, Sat Pal Khattar's remarkable journey is marked
by numerous accolades and honors, each a testament to his unwavering commitment
to excellence, leadership, and community service. His diverse contributions
across various domains have left an indelible mark on both local and
international landscapes, embodying the spirit of dedication and achievement.
Sat Pal Khattar's Social Contributions
Sat Pal Khattar's social career spans over two decades,
during which he has been an active participant in various civic and
governmental organizations. He has served on the President's panel for minority
rights for more than twenty years and played a significant role in fostering
relations between Singapore and India, notably contributing to the free trade
agreement signed between the two nations in 2003.
In Singapore, Khattar has held numerous leadership positions
across various civic bodies. He has served as the Chairman of the Singapore
Business Federation, the Board of Governors of Raffles Institution, and the
Professional Indemnity Insurance Sub-Committee of the Law Society.
Additionally, he has been involved in the Singapore Labour Foundation, the
Hindu Advisory Board, and has served as a member of the Public Service
Commission and the Securities Industry Council.
Khattar's commitment to community development is evident
through his involvement with non-governmental organizations such as the
Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA). As a life trustee of SINDA,
he actively contributes to uplifting financially disadvantaged members of the
Indian community. He also serves as the vice president of the Singapore Indian
Education Trust and is a board member of the Institute of South Asian Studies.
Furthermore, Khattar plays a significant role in promoting international
management excellence as the chairman of the International Management Action
Award (IMAA) Council and serves as an advisor to the Singapore Indian Chamber of
Commerce and Industry.
Some recent companies where invested
1 CSB Bank
Ltd.
2 DCM Ltd.
3 Gayatri
Highways Ltd.
4 Gayatri
Projects Ltd.
5 IIFL
Finance Ltd. 1.27
6 Nath
Bio-Genes (India) Ltd.
7 R.P.P.
Infra Projects Ltd.
8 Sangam
(India) Ltd.
9 Strides
Pharma Science Ltd.
10 Intense
Technologies Ltd.
11 Pakka Ltd.
Timeline:
1942: Birth of Sat Pal Khattar in Bhera, India.
1950s: Family relocates to Singapore.
1966: Graduates from the University of Singapore with an
honors degree in law.
1970: Attains a master's degree.
1971: Receives the Public Administrative Medal (Silver) for
his civil service contributions.
1974: Establishes Sat Pal Khattar Co., later renamed Khattar
Wong & Partners.
2000: Retires from legal practice and founds Khattar
Holdings.
2003: Participates in negotiations leading to the
Singapore-India free trade agreement.
2009: Fully divests from Khattar Wong & Partners to
focus on investments.
2011: Receives the Padma Shri award from the Indian
government.
2024: Publicly holds shares in 6 stocks with a combined net
worth exceeding Rs 167.5 Crore.
