Indian-origin Shruti Chopra becomes first South Asian woman to ring LSE bell in 40 years

Indian-origin Shruti Tripathi Chopra, editor-in-chief of Dow Jones publications Financial News and Private Equity News, made history at the London Stock Exchange. She became the first South Asian woman to ring its closing bell since the ceremony returned after a 40-year absence.The ceremony was held in London on Thursday, to celebrate the second annual South Asian Power Brokers list, which recognises influential South Asian leaders in global finance and business.The event brought together prominent figures from the City, including London Stock Exchange chief executive Dame Julia Hoggett, Brookfield's Private Equity Group vice-chair Sir Ron Kalifa, Paul, Weiss vice-chair Neel Sachdev and UK Office for Investment chief executive Parminder Kohli.British Fashion Council chair Pavita Cooper, Deutsche Bank's UK and Ireland chief executive Vathany Vijayaratna and Cobra Beer founder Lord Karan Bilimoria were also present.The gathering recognised the contribution of South Asian leaders to financial services, investment, law and business. It also highlighted the importance of representation, mentorship and creating opportunities for future generations.The occasion was particularly meaningful for Chopra as it coincided with Karva Chauth, a traditional Hindu festival observed by many married women. She was joined by her in-laws, who are visiting London. Her mother-in-law was also observing the fast.Speaking about the significance of the occasion, Chopra said, “The South Asian leaders standing alongside me on the balcony of the London Stock Exchange collectively oversee billions of dollars. Yet when I asked how many had imagined, at the start of their careers, that they would one day stand on that balcony being celebrated for their professional success and South Asian heritage, not a single hand went up."She further added, “Ringing the closing bell at the London Stock Exchange matters because it sends a powerful message about who belongs at the very top of global finance. We are not just celebrating extraordinary achievement. We are changing what the next generation believes is possible. It was an immense honour to stand alongside some of the most influential figures in the industry and demonstrate that our South Asian heritage is not something we have to leave at the door to succeed. It is part of our success.”The ceremony was followed by a Diwali reception celebrating the South Asian business community and its contribution to the UK economy.Chopra was awarded the Freedom of the City of London in December 2025 in recognition of her contribution to financial journalism and efforts to promote diversity in the City. She is the first woman and the first person of colour to lead Financial News and Private Equity News in their nearly 30-year history.You use AI every day. Now get your AI Quotient. Take the AIQ test.