Avendus Capital, the Indian financial services firm, has strengthened its advisory council with the addition of a renowned economist to the team. 

Professor Eisuke Sakakibara is a key advisor to the Democractic Party of Japan and has been the country's vice minister of finance and international affairs. He has also served as an economist for the International Monetary Fund.

The appointment of a respected Japanese national is part of the firm's plan to increase its coverage of the Indo-Japanese investments and deals sector. Avendus Capital is one of the largest financial services entities in India, closing some $2.2 billion in deals in 2011. It also specialises in equity markets and wealth management. 

"Sakakibara's insights and relationships in Japan and understanding of India will prove invaluable for our clients looking to tap Japan for capital or partners," commented Ranu Vohra, managing director and chief executive for Avendus Capital.

Avendus operates through four subsidiaries, two of which are located in India, one in New York and the other in London.