Case
Teaching Notes
Abstract
Pankaj Patel did not want to borrow money from his son’s father-in-law, but he hoped to launch his son’s dream project of expanding the family tea business, Patel & Sons, to the European market. During a recession, the company was unable to borrow money from the open market, yet borrowing from an in-law would likely affect business performance and create tension. This case illustrates the delicate family dynamics involved in managing and funding a family-owned business, where overlapping roles add complexity.