He was president of the Bengal Chamber of Commerce, sat on the Imperial Legislative Council, and in 1903 was knighted.

He owned a racehorse stud, and for several years was the leading figure in the Indian racing world.

Alexander became head of the family firm after the death of his three elder brothers, Apcar, Seth and Thomas.

[5] Apcar continued the family trading business, living at their home in Russell Street, where he entertained many people.

[citation needed] Apcar raced as a partner of Malcolm Peter Gaspar, also of Armenian origin.

They were great rivals of Lord William Beresford, who strongly believed in the merits of English thoroughbreds.