HCLTech has expanded its long-standing partnership with Guardian Life Insurance Company of America by acquiring the insurer’s India Global Capability Centre (GCC) for $10.5 million. The acquisition is part of a new 7-year agreement focused on accelerating AI-led transformation across Guardian’s business.
Under the deal, HCLTech will acquire 100% ownership of Guardian India Operations Pvt. Ltd., which supports Guardian’s insurance, retirement and wealth management businesses. The transaction is expected to be completed on August 1, 2026.
Following the acquisition, nearly 2,000 employees from Guardian India will join HCLTech as part of a dedicated Strategic Business Unit that will exclusively support Guardian. The new unit will focus on technology innovation, engineering, AI-led transformation and business operations. Guardian India’s Country Head, Karunakaran Azhisur, will also join HCLTech to lead the business unit.
As part of the expanded partnership, HCLTech will use its AI Force platform to build agentic AI capabilities while modernising Guardian’s data platforms, engineering systems and application ecosystem. The collaboration aims to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, accelerate product delivery and enhance experiences for customers, financial advisors and distribution partners.
“This partnership is an important step in advancing our operating model and scaling AI across our enterprise,” said Steve Rullo, Chief Digital and Technology Officer at Guardian.
Rullo added that the partnership will strengthen operational capabilities and support Guardian’s long-term growth strategy.
Srinivasan Seshadri, Chief Growth Officer and Global Head of Financial Services at HCLTech, said the expanded partnership will strengthen the company’s insurance technology business while creating opportunities to develop AI-driven solutions and intellectual property for the sector.
According to HCLTech’s regulatory filing, Guardian India Operations Pvt. Ltd. reported revenue of Rs. 578.8 crore in FY26, compared with Rs. 483.2 crore in FY25 and Rs. 493.5 crore in FY24.
The acquisition strengthens HCLTech’s insurance technology capabilities by adding an experienced team with deep financial services expertise. It also reflects the growing trend of technology companies acquiring corporate GCCs to expand digital capabilities, access skilled talent and build long-term partnerships. India continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for GCCs supporting AI, engineering, technology development and business operations.
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