TechCrunch Startup News Peak XV says internal disagreement led to partner exits as it doubles down on AI
Feb 5, 2026
Internal disagreements that triggered senior partner exits at a major VC firm. Board transitions and steps to maintain oversight across portfolio companies. New firm formation by departing partners alongside internal promotions to fill leadership gaps. Financial highlights from recent IPOs and plans to hire AI-native talent and open a U.S. office soon.
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Senior Partners Exit To Start New Firm
- Ashish Agrawal, Ishan Mattal, and Dajeshwi Sharma left Peak XV after internal disagreements and chose to start a new VC together.
- Agrawal framed the move as an entrepreneurial plunge and thanked Peak XV for a “truly wonderful partnership.”
Internal Promotions To Shore Up Continuity
- Peak XV says board continuity won’t be disrupted because multiple GPs and operating partners already cover portfolio boards.
- The firm promoted Abhishek Mohan to GP and elevated Saipraya Sarangan to COO to strengthen leadership from within.
VC Firm Pivoting Toward AI
- Peak XV is doubling down on AI, having made about 80 AI-linked investments and seeking AI-native talent.
- The firm believes AI will reshape venture investing and plans to hire researchers and ML engineers to lead deals.