MoneyTruVa Gets Backing from Sunil Singhania (in personal capacity) and Raj Shamani to Build a Structured Financial Information Platform for Indian Investors

Shareholders include Amar K. Ambani, Ajay Thakur, Kirtan Shah, Sonia Shenoy Platform to be unveiled in Mumbai on 22 October for pre-registration

MoneyTruVa, a structured financial information platform for Indian investors, has raised an undisclosed amount in a seed round.

MoneyTruVa brings together financial information that is scattered across exchange filings, media and social platforms, and presents it in a structured format with context. It aims to bring together investors and stakeholders across the financial ecosystem, enabling them to discover information, understand it and make better-informed decisions. The platform is designed to bring greater clarity to an information landscape that is often fragmented across multiple sources and formats.

India's investor base has crossed 13 crore unique accounts, supported by progressive regulation, robust market infrastructure, exchanges, intermediaries and listed companies. As participation continues to broaden and deepen across the country, one of the most important enablers for the next phase of growth will be access to structured financial information that empowers investors to make smarter decisions. MoneyTruVa aims to address this need by transforming fragmented financial information into a structured, accessible and decision-oriented experience for investors.

The platform will be unveiled at an invite-only event in Mumbai on 22 October 2026 and will be open for public pre-registration.

MoneyTruVa's shareholder base includes prominent names from India's financial ecosystem, as well as leading business and finance educators and thought leaders, who share the company's vision of democratising financial information and knowledge for investors across India.

Shareholders from India's financial ecosystem include Sunil Singhania (lead investor, investing in his personal capacity), along with Abhijit Bhave – Former CEO, Equirus Wealth; Ajay Thakur – CEO TGIsmE, Former Head of BSE SME; Amar K. Ambani – Executive Director, Yes Securities; Dhiren Shah – MD, Moneybee Securities; Jayesh Parmar – Managing Partner, Mudita Growth Partner; Kirtan Shah – Founder & CEO, Truvanta Wealth; Kunal Bothra – Market Expert, SEBI Registered Research Analyst, Trainer, Mentor; Rakesh Rathod – Evangelist, smallcase / CASE Platforms; Vikram Kotak – Investor, Former CIO Birla Sun Life Insurance; Vinit Jain – Co-founder, Promore AIF and Broking and others.

The shareholder base also includes leading business and finance educators, entrepreneurs and thought leaders, including Raj Shamani – Entrepreneur, Investor, Author and Founder – Figuring Out Media; Anant Ladha – Creator; Avanne Dubash – Former Anchor ET Now; Dr. Sanjay Arora – Brand Consultant, Author, Founder - Shells Advertising; Karunya Puligadda – Co-founder Cogent Media Labs, Former Anchor & Research Analyst ET Now, News Editor Moneycontrol; Kushal Lodha – Entrepreneur, Finance Podcaster; Mubina Kapasi - Co-founder Cogent Media Labs, Former Anchor & Research Analyst - ET Now; Rahul Malodia – Founder Malodia Business Coaching; Sanjay Kathuria – Financial Educator, Entrepreneur; Sonia Shenoy – Independent Business Journalist, Podcaster, former Anchor CNBC and others.

All shareholders named above have invested in their personal capacity; their investment does not represent an endorsement by, or an association with, any organisation with which they are connected.

Jigish Sonagara, Founder and CEO of MoneyTruVa, said, “We are deeply grateful for the trust and support of some of the most respected names across India's financial and business ecosystem.

Our vision is to democratise access to financial information and knowledge and make it more useful and accessible to every investor, irrespective of their investment journey, location, size of investment or level of knowledge of financial markets. We believe better access to relevant information can play an important role in deepening participation in India's financial markets and contributing to greater financial inclusion. This is just the beginning, and we are excited about the journey ahead.”

About MoneyTruVa

MoneyTruVa is building India's first Structured Financial Information Platform for Smarter Decisions, designed to bring financial information together in a structured and accessible format to help investors discover, understand and make better-informed decisions.

Founded by Jigish Sonagara, who has led technology initiatives for financial market institutions including MCX, IEX and MSE, and has been involved in the conceptualisation of technology platforms spanning exchange systems, risk management, surveillance, market infrastructure and MSME finance. The company also has Sameer Vasani on its Board. Sameer is a TOGAF-certified enterprise architect with extensive expertise in enterprise technology architecture, trading systems and large-scale digital infrastructure.

MoneyTruVa's vision is to democratise access to financial information and knowledge and make it more structured, accessible and useful for investors across India. 

Bank of Baroda Enters Pension Fund Arena, Second PSU Bank to Enter Market

Marking a significant milestone on the occasion of NPS Divas 2026, Bank of Baroda received the PFRDA Certificate of Appointment as Sponsor of the Pension Fund under Section 27 of the PFRDA Act, 2013. With this, Bank of Baroda becomes the second Public Sector Bank to enter the pension fund business, marking an important step in its expansion in the retirement and long-term savings space. The certificate was presented by Shri Sanjay Lohiya, IAS, Secretary, Department of Financial Services (DFS) to Dr. Debadatta Chand, Managing Director & CEO, Bank of Baroda, in the presence of Shri S Ramann, Chairperson, PFRDA and Shri Dinesh Kumar Khara, Chairperson, NPS Trust.

During the event, the Bank also became amongst the first few banks to onboard Tatkal NPS on the BHIM App as part of the second phase rollout of Tatkal NPS. The integration of Tatkal NPS with the BHIM App is expected to significantly enhance the accessibility and reach of the National Pension System by enabling seamless digital onboarding through the widely used BHIM platform.

On the occasion, Dr. Debadatta Chand, Managing Director & CEO, Bank of Baroda expressed, "Today marks an important milestone for Bank of Baroda as we become the second Public Sector Bank to enter the pension fund business. We have also onboarded Tatkal NPS on the BHIM App. These milestones reinforce our commitment in expanding access to retirement solutions and leveraging digital innovation to make pension products more accessible and convenient for customers across the country. We remain focused on supporting greater pension penetration and encouraging long-term financial security for all."

Organised by PFRDA, NPS Divas brought together representatives from public and private sector banks, Central Recordkeeping Agencies, NPCI BHIM Services Limited and senior officials from the Department of Financial Services to discuss the growth and future of the National Pension System.

About Bank of Baroda

Founded on 20th July, 1908 by Sir Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Bank of Baroda is one of the leading commercial banks in India. At 63.97% stake, it is majorly owned by the Government of India. The Bank serves its global customer base of over ~180 million through around 65,000 touch points spread across 15 countries in five continents and through its various digital banking platforms, which provide all banking products and services in a seamless and hassle-free manner. The Bank’s vision matches the aspirations of its diverse clientele base and seeks to instill a sense of trust and security in all their dealings with the Bank.

Visit us at https://bankofbaroda.bank.in/

Govt Declares I‑T Portal Stable, Infosys Penalized for Delays

The government told the Lok Sabha that the Income-Tax e-filing portal is “largely stable and efficient,” but confirmed that Infosys has been penalized for repeated delays, outages, and failure to meet service-level agreements under the Integrated e-Filing and CPC 2.0 project.

Responding in writing to an unstarred question from Shyamkumar Daulat Barve, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary shared detailed figures on portal activity recorded between July 8 and 14, 2026, alongside comparative data from the same week in 2025. 

The Income-Tax e-filing portal was originally developed and operated by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) from 2012 until October 2020. Infosys was paid Rs 164.5 crore from January 2019 to June 2021, under the Integrated e‑Filing and CPC 2.0 project, and began work after Cabinet approval that month. The new portal was launched on June 7, 2021. 

Key Updates from Lok Sabha

• Portal Stability
  The I-T portal has handled record traffic in July 2026, with filings nearly tripling compared to last year. On July 14, 2026, 1.22 million returns were filed versus 409,000 a year earlier. Logins surged to 9.88 million in a single day, up from 6.76 million in 2025.
• Infosys Penalties
  Liquidated damages for failing to deliver the project on schedule in 2020. Penalties for missing service-level agreements across 12 quarters. Fines for application outages during FY26 peak filing season. Additional penalties when filing deadlines had to be extended due to Infosys-related issues.

Context on Penalties

• Faceless Penalty Scheme
  Under Section 274A of ITA 2025, penalties are now processed digitally, ensuring consistency and reducing discretion. Penalties for under-reporting can be 50% of tax, while misreporting attracts 200% of tax.
• Judicial Relief
  ITAT Bangalore has ruled that technical glitches cannot be grounds to deny penalty immunity under Section 270AA, protecting taxpayers from systemic failures.

Risks & Implications

• For Taxpayers
  While the portal is stable, transient delays may still occur during peak load. Filing deadlines could be extended if outages recur, but penalties on taxpayers for such glitches are legally contestable.
• For Infosys
  Repeated penalties highlight government dissatisfaction with delivery timelines and reliability. This could affect Infosys’s credibility in handling large-scale government IT projects.

Takeaway

• The I-T portal is functioning reliably for most users, but expect occasional slowdowns near deadlines.
• Infosys faces financial and reputational consequences for delays, reinforcing government accountability measures.
• If you’re covering this editorially, emphasize the contrast between rising taxpayer usage and Infosys’s repeated penalties — it’s a strong narrative on resilience vs. vendor accountability.

Summary Table

Aspect	Details
Portal Stability	Record filings and logins in July 2026; system largely efficient
Infosys Penalties	Damages for delays, SLA breaches, outages, deadline extensions
Taxpayer Impact	Delays contestable; deadlines may be extended during outages
Infosys Impact	Credibility risk in government IT projects

Govt Pushes Faster Debt Case Clearances with Digital Boost

The Department of Financial Services (DFS) convened a major colloquium at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, bringing together Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunal (DRAT) Chairpersons and Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) Presiding Officers. The focus was on cutting case backlogs, speeding up debt recovery, and strengthening tribunals through digitisation and training.

For an uninitiated, a government colloquium (like the DFS event ) is where tribunal officials and bankers discuss reducing case backlogs.

The Secretary, DFS underscored the Department’s strategic thrust on deepening digitisation to streamline tribunal processes.

Key Highlights of the Colloquium

• Date & Venue: May 2, 2026, Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi
• Participants: DFS Secretary, senior officials, bank representatives, Indian Banks’ Association
• Objective: Reduce pendency of debt recovery cases and accelerate disposal rates

Major Announcements

• Digitisation Drive: Mandatory e-filing, hybrid hearings, rollout of e‑DRT 2.0
• Capacity Building: Training programmes for officers and staff, adoption of best practices
• Case Prioritisation: Focus on high-value cases, use of Lok Adalats and mediation
• Bank Oversight: Stronger monitoring mechanisms for better recovery outcomes. 

e‑DRT 2.0 is the upgraded digital platform for India’s Debt Recovery Tribunals (DRTs), designed to make loan recovery cases faster, more transparent, and less dependent on physical paperwork. It introduces mandatory e‑filing, hybrid hearings, and improved case management tools.  

Technology & Innovation

• BAANKNET e‑Auction Platform: Centralised system for distressed asset auctions, improving visibility and value realisation

BAANKNET is India’s official e‑auction platform created for banks to sell properties linked to Non‑Performing Assets (NPAs). It centralises auctions across public sector banks, making the process transparent, accessible, and efficient for buyers and lenders.  

Impact on the Public

• Faster debt case disposal for citizens and businesses
• Transparency and accessibility through digital tools
• Reduced backlogs with adoption of best practices

Conclusion

DFS is driving reforms to modernise India’s debt recovery system. With digitisation, training, and alternative dispute resolution, tribunals are set to become more robust, transparent, and efficient.

CIBIL Score Now Available on BHIM Payments App

TransUnion CIBIL, India’s leading credit information company, today announced the integration of the consumer CIBIL Score and Credit Information Report (CIR) into BHIM Payments App, India’s homegrown payment app developed by NPCI BHIM Services Limited (NBSL). The integration enables BHIM App users to securely access, view, and track their CIBIL Score and key credit information directly within the app, empowering them with greater visibility of their credit health. Aligned with regulatory guidelines, the integration follows a customer consent-based model where credit information is accessed only after the user’s approval, ensuring transparency and control.

TransUnion CIBIL and NBSL are two premier institutions that are important to India’s financial and digital payments ecosystem. By embedding the CIBIL Score into the BHIM App, the integration places credit awareness alongside everyday financial activities. This enables consumers to make more informed financial decisions by accessing trusted credit information conveniently and securely in a familiar environment.

The BHIM Payments App is designed to support users in managing their everyday financial needs. Built for Indian users, it supports 15+ Indian languages and offers a simple, easy to navigate interface, making it accessible across urban, rural, and semi urban regions. It already enables users to manage money through features like Split Expenses, Family Mode, Spends Analytics, and Action Needed reminders. With the addition of the CIBIL Score, BHIM takes this a step further by helping users not just transact but also stay informed about their credit profile.

Commenting on the association, Mr. Bhavesh Jain, MD and CEO, TransUnion CIBIL, said: “Credit awareness and credit inclusion are at the centre of a strong and resilient credit ecosystem. The BHIM Payments App will enable CIBIL Score and Credit Information Report to be easily accessible to its millions of users. As India moves from a largely transactional approach towards credit to a more carefully planned one, this is an important step in our consumer awareness journey. It supports the development of a better informed, empowered and inclusive credit environment, in keeping with our purpose of driving ‘Information for Good’.”

Lalitha Nataraj, MD & CEO, NPCI BHIM Services Ltd, said: “BHIM Payments App has been built with a clear focus on simplicity and user control. Through our collaboration with TransUnion CIBIL, we are extending this approach to credit awareness, enabling users to access their CIBIL Score easily within the BHIM App. This is a step towards helping users make more informed financial decisions as part of their everyday journeys.”

The feature is live on BHIM Payments App version 4.0.19 and above.

About TransUnion CIBIL

India’s pioneer information and insights company, TransUnion CIBIL, makes trust possible by ensuring each person and business entity is reliably represented in the marketplace. We do this by providing an actionable view of consumers and businesses, stewarded with care.

We have developed technology and innovative solutions across core credit, risk and advanced analytics. As a result, consumers and businesses can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good® — and it leads to economic opportunity, great experiences, and personal empowerment for millions of people and commercial entities in India.

We serve the financial sector as well as commercial entities and individual consumers. Our customers in India include banks, credit institutions, NBFCs, housing finance companies, microfinance companies, telecom companies and insurance firms.

For more information visit www.transunioncibil.com.

About NPCI BHIM Services Limited:

NPCI BHIM Services Limited (NBSL) was incorporated in 2024, as a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). NBSL aims to enhance the adoption of digital payments through the Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) platform and committed to providing a seamless, secure, and user-friendly payment experience to individuals and businesses across India.

NBSL facilitates quick and efficient digital transactions, offering an accessible and reliable payment solution for all. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, NBSL aims to drive financial inclusion and support India’s journey toward becoming a fully digital economy.

For more information, visit https://www.bhimupi.org.in/.

Half of Finance Professionals Fear Falling Behind: ACCA Introduces Tech‑Focused Certificate Series

In response to insights from over 900 finance leaders, ACCA has created the Technology in Finance certificate series – a four-part programme designed to give finance teams the practical, future-ready tools to thrive in a fast-evolving world.

Technology is transforming finance, from data and AI to cybersecurity and organisational change. However not having the skills required for the future workplace is a major concern – with 50% of respondents to ACCA’s Global Talent Trends survey concerned that they need to develop the necessary skills. Organisations need accountants and finance professionals to be tech-enabled, not just technically sound.

The certificates are aimed at anyone working in a finance role, particularly those interested in technology development and CPD for career progression. The programme is also highly relevant to finance employers or those overseeing a finance function who want their teams to gain crucial tech skills to prepare for the future.

Md. Sajid Khan, Director – India at ACCA said: Technology is already reshaping finance and embracing these innovations is just one of the ways that we’re redefining accountancy. These new certificates will give professional accountants in India - and their employers - the tools to thrive in this fast-evolving world.

The series includes:

• Certificate in Data Analytics for Finance Professionals
• Certificate in Cybersecurity for Finance Professionals
• Certificate in AI for Finance Professionals
• Certificate in Organisational Transformation for Finance Professionals

Individuals can enrol in the full series or target specific knowledge requirements by choosing the certificates most relevant to their roles. Enrolment is now open for the first certificate focused on Data Analytics. Learners can sign up through ACCA Learning, ACCA’s dedicated platform for finance professionals’ continuous learning.

More information is available on ACCA’s website.

Sold property? Deposit gains in ICICI Bank’s new account, save tax & earn interest

ICICI Bank today announced the launch of the Capital Gains Account Scheme (CGAS), enabling customers to deposit un-invested long term capital gains or sale proceeds from the sale of specified capital assets*. This facility allows them to avail tax exemptions* for up to three years while earning interest on deposited funds.

The launch follows the Government’s approval of ICICI Bank as an authorised institution to handle CGAS deposits.

Starting January 1, 2026, this scheme is available for Resident individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs). It will be available for non-individuals and NRIs shortly. It benefits taxpayers who are unable to reinvest long term capital gains before the Income Tax Return (ITR) filing deadline. Customers can open a Capital Gains Account by visiting their nearest ICICI Bank branch (except rural locations, as per CGAS rules).

An ICICI Bank spokesperson said, “We thank the Government of India for recognising ICICI Bank as an authorised institution for CGAS deposits. With this scheme, customers can park un-invested long term capital gains, earn interest, and claim tax exemptions, while planning reinvestment up to three years. This offering reinforces our commitment to deliver financial solutions that meet evolving customer needs.”

Key features & benefits of CGAS:

• Type A (Savings Account): Flexible withdrawals linked to approved reinvestment purposes
• Type B (Term Deposit Account): Cumulative or non-cumulative formats for fixed-tenure deposits. 
• Tax exemption: Deposit un-invested capital gains or sale proceeds before the ITR due date to claim exemption on long-term capital gains under relevant Income Tax sections. 
• Temporary parking of funds: Up to three years to plan reinvestment without losing exemption eligibility
• Interest earned: Similar to regular savings account or fixed deposits.
• Flexible reinvestment: Proceeds can be invested in property, agricultural land, or new capital assets of industrial undertaking in non-urban areas/ special economic zones depending on the CGAS chosen; withdrawal of proceeds requires proof of usage of funds. 

* Customers should consult their tax advisors for claiming tax exemption and for guidance on specified capital assets under CGAS.

India’s Mutual Fund AUM to Cross ₹300 Lakh Crore by 2035, Equity Holdings at ₹250 Lakh Crore: Bain–Groww Report

India’s mutual fund AUM is projected to surpass INR 300 lakh crore by 2035, with direct equity holdings expected to reach INR 250 lakh crore over the same period, signalling a major shift in the country’s investment landscape. These findings are part of the How India Invests 2025 report released today by Bain & Company in partnership with Groww.

The mutual fund ecosystem continues to deepen and expand, with the next wave of growth driven by increasing household adoption, strong digital enablement, supportive regulation and growing investor trust. According to the report, mutual fund penetration across Indian households is expected to double from 10% to 20% over the next decade. The next phase of industry growth will come primarily from mass and mass-affluent households beyond the top 30 cities. Increased adoption among affluent investors across the next 70 cities will further accelerate this expansion. The share of long-term holdings is also rising; over-five-year holdings in industry AUM have doubled from 7% to 16%, and over-five-year SIP holdings have increased from 12% to 21%, reflecting growing investor trust and confidence.

Saurabh Trehan, Partner & Head of Bain & Company’s Financial Services practice in India, said, “Indian households are steadily shifting from a traditional savings mindset to a more investment-oriented approach, with mutual funds and direct equities emerging as the fastest-growing asset classes in recent years. As more households, especially young and first-time investors and those beyond the top 30 cities embrace market-linked products and longer holding periods, we’re seeing the emergence of a deeper and more resilient domestic investor base. With SIP inflows and long-term holdings rising sharply, this evolution will be central to how India finances its growth in the years ahead.”

The expected growth in equity participation, on the other hand, can be attributed to the shift from speculative trading to long-term investing, in addition to continued digitally driven penetration and strong market performance. Approximately 9 crore incremental retail investors are expected from Gen Z and millennials, led by higher digital adoption and growing financial literacy.

Smaller Cities and First-Time Investors Are Shaping the Next Phase of Growth

The report highlights a broad-based democratisation of investing in India, with rising participation from younger investors, women, and households beyond the major metros.

India’s investor demographics are shifting rapidly, with new generation of participants entering the market and likely to contribute to the market growth. Mutual fund folios have grown 2.5x in the past five years, yet individual gross flows have increased by just 7%, underscoring the entry of a large cohort of new investors with smaller ticket sizes. Average monthly SIP inflows have risen at an estimated 25% CAGR over the last decade, driven largely by 18 to 34-year-olds, a demographic which is increasingly shaping the direction of domestic capital markets. Younger investors under 30 now represent 40% of NSE-registered investors, compared with 23% in FY19, underscoring the generational shift driving India’s capital markets.

Another key trend highlighted in the report is rising participation from smaller urban centers Today, 55%-60% of new SIP registrations originate from B30 cities, demonstrating that India’s investment ecosystem is broadening beyond major metros. Cities beyond the top 110 contributed 19% of mutual fund AUM in FY25, up from 10% in FY19. Women’s participation is also rising steadily with salience of women investors rising to 25% in FY24 vs 20% in FY19.

Digital Platforms Are Reshaping Investor Behaviour

Digital platforms have emerged as the fastest-growing channel for retail investing over the last five years, with approximately 80% of equity investors and 35% of mutual fund investors being onboarded through these platforms.

Gen Z now makes up approximately 45% of the investor base and continues to grow, with salaried individuals forming the dominant occupational segment. The reach of digital platforms is no longer confined to major metros with Tier-2+ city investors making up nearly half of all digital platform users further demonstrating the increasingly broad-based reach of digital investment channels across India.

"We are witnessing a definitive structural shift in Indians—moving from a savings-first to an investing-first mindset. The government’s push on digital infrastructure, combined with progressive regulatory measures, has democratized access and fostered deep trust in the ecosystem. A diverse, resilient investor base is emerging from Tier 2+ cities and younger demographics, who are strengthening India’s capital markets from within.”, said Harsh Jain, co-founder and COO, Groww.

Retail Investing as a Key Enabler of India’s Journey to a $10+ Trillion Economy

Retail investing is set to play a pivotal role in India’s journey toward a $10+ trillion economy, contributing across capital access, wealth creation, and employment.

One of the most important contributions of retail investing is improved access to capital. Higher participation provides deeper liquidity in capital markets, enabling more primary issuances particularly for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. Reflecting this trend, annual SME IPO proceeds have risen sharply from around INR 1,800 crore in FY19 to nearly INR 6,000 crore in FY24, significantly expanding the availability of growth capital.

At the same time, greater financial awareness and digital access are democratizing wealth creation, helping diverse demographics shift from traditional deposits toward higher-return market-linked products. This shift is particularly important for improving financial independence among women and enabling younger investors to build long-term wealth.

Retail investing is poised to create more than 7 lakh new jobs, both within the financial ecosystem and across businesses gaining access to growth capital. The growing prominence of domestic mutual funds and rising retail inflows is also reinforcing the resilience of India’s capital markets, acting as a counterweight to foreign portfolio outflows and enabling faster recoveries during periods of volatility.

“India is entering a new era of retail investing, one that is poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s economic development. By expanding access to capital, broadening wealth creation, unlocking new job opportunities, and strengthening the resilience of India’s capital markets, retail investors are reshaping the flow of capital in meaningful ways. Just as importantly, steady domestic inflows are giving India’s capital markets a level of resilience we haven’t seen before, helping them to absorb volatility and recover faster.”, said Rakesh Pozhath, Partner and a leading member of Bain & Company’s Financial Services practice in India.

As participation deepens across demographics, generations, and geographies, India’s investment landscape is entering a more inclusive, resilient, and mature phase. These shifts from longer holding periods to a sustained SIP culture and wider adoption across the country mark a fundamental turning point in how India builds long-term wealth and capital market strength for the decade ahead.

JioFinance Empowers Users with AI-Driven Insights and a Single View of Their Financial World

Enhancing the way people engage with their money, a powerful new feature has been launched on the JioFinance app, which enables users to bring together what matters in their financial life on to one unified, secure, and intelligent platform. It allows users to seamlessly link, view and analyse all their bank accounts, mutual funds and stock portfolios in one single place, without the hassle of viewing multiple apps.

In an increasingly fragmented financial ecosystem, individuals often struggle to track multiple accounts, apps, and providers. The JioFinance app solves this by consolidating, analysing, and personalising financial recommendations, based on user consent. It gives users a clear and nuanced understanding of their cash flow trends, expenses and investment, as well as recommendations for better money management. This feature helps people align day-to-day spending patterns with their long-term goals, using advanced analytics and smart insights to simplify decision-making.

The key features of the platform include:

• Unified Financial Dashboard: Brings together all financial relationships — from loans and deposits held within JioFinance to linked external accounts and investments — providing a consolidated, real-time view of a user’s finances.
• Comprehensive Asset Tracking: Enables users to link and track Bank Accounts (CASA) for real-time balances and spending insights, as well as Mutual Funds, Equities, and ETFs with portfolio and performance analysis. Soon, support for Fixed and Recurring Deposits will offer an even more complete picture of a user’s financial world.
• Smart, Data-Driven Guidance: Goes beyond simple tracking with AI-powered insights and nudges, offering personalised recommendations to help users make better financial decisions.

To begin the journey of smarter money management, users can download the JioFinance app, click on the ‘Track your Finances’ tab on the home screen and follow a few simple steps to set up their personalised financial dashboard. Jio Finance Platform and Service Limited, a subsidiary of Jio Financial Services Limited, is responsible for managing the JioFinance app.

Surbhe S Sharma, Chief Executive Officer, Jio Finance Platform and Service Limited says:

With this new feature on the JioFinance app, we are taking a significant step towards our mission of making finances simple, transparent, intuitive and accessible for every Indian. By bringing a person’s financial life together on a unified, secure and insightful platform, we are empowering users to understand and manage their money effortlessly. We are committed to continuously enhancing the money management and optimising capabilities of the JioFinance app, using advanced analytics & intelligence over time, which will empower the financial well-being of millions of Indians.

To download the JioFinance app, click here

About Jio Finance Platform and Service Limited:

Jio Finance Platform and Service Limited is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Jio Financial Services Limited, responsible for managing the JioFinance app, the unified digital storefront for all retail-focussed products and services offered by Jio We’re a dedicated entity created to empower every Indian with seamless access to trusted, secure, and simplified financial services.

About Jio Financial Services Limited:

Jio Financial Services Limited (JFSL) is a Core Investment Company (CIC) registered with the Reserve Bank of India. As a new-age institution, JFSL operates a full-stack financial services ecosystem through customer-facing subsidiaries, including Jio Credit Limited, Jio Insurance Broking Limited, Jio Payment Solutions Limited, Jio Leasing Services Limited, Jio Finance Platform and Service Limited, and Jio Payments Bank Limited.

Through a 50:50 joint venture with BlackRock, JFSL offers asset management services in India through Jio BlackRock Asset Management Private Limited. The JV with BlackRock also proposes to offer wealth management and broking services through two other entities – Jio BlackRock Investment Advisers Private Limited (for wealth management) and JioBlackRock Broking Private Limited.

JFSL has entered into a 50:50 joint venture with the Allianz Group and has set up Allianz Jio Reinsurance Limited to offer reinsurance services in India, subject to regulatory approvals. The two entities have also signed a non-binding agreement to explore opportunities in general and life insurance.

With a digital-first model, JFSL is committed to enhancing the financial well-being of Indian citizens by enabling them to borrow, transact, save, and invest seamlessly. Through the JioFinance app, customers can access a wide range of solutions including loans, savings accounts, UPI, bill payments, recharges, digital insurance, financial tracking and management tools, and more.

Why ACCA Course in Mumbai Is the Smartest Career Move for Young Graduates in Finance

What to do next is always a question asked by our acquaintances at every stage of life, be it studies, a job, a company, salary or anything else.

Today, let us talk about what’s next after graduation. There is always that constant pressure coming from teachers as well as parents to make the right choice. Some graduates rush into jobs, while others prepare for competitive exams, and still others get stuck comparing endless professional courses.

We understand that this confusion is natural, and let me tell you, the finance industry offers many paths. But not all of them promise global recognition, flexibility, and long-term career growth. And this is where the ACCA course in Mumbai steps in as one of the smartest career moves for young graduates.

It not only answers the "what to do next” question with clarity but also opens doors to opportunities across the world. You should read further as we explore why ACCA is the smartest career move for young graduates in finance.

Smart Qualification for Young Finance Professionals

ACCA is a smart qualification, especially for young finance graduates, and we are saying so because of the various reasons listed below:

• Firstly, a 10th-grade pass student is eligible for it. So, you get a head start on your career.
• Graduates doing it simultaneously or afterwards can avail of exemptions (in some cases) and fast-track their ACCA journey.
• It is so flexible that you can easily manage it along with your personal commitments.
• Even if you are a working professional, you can do ACCA and showcase your experience if it is in a relevant field to become an ACCA member.
• As soon as you enroll in a trusted ACCA institute like edZeb, you become a part of the global community.
• Employers also value ACCA professionals for their well-rounded training in strategy, management, and business analysis.
• Globalisation has led to the ever-increasing demand for finance experts across banking, consulting, audit, and corporate finance.
• The best ACCA coaching in Mumbai ensures young professionals are not only employable but also future-ready.

So, choosing the right qualification, like ACCA, can change the entire course of your career. It stands out because it combines global recognition, flexibility, and strong career prospects. ACCA is accepted in 180+ countries, making it ideal for those who dream of working abroad. The structure of the ACCA course is flexible. It allows students to learn at their own pace and even pursue it alongside jobs or higher studies.

The Global Demand for Skilled Finance Professionals

The finance industry is evolving fast, and so is the demand for professionals. It is mainly for their industry-relevant expertise in both technical and practical business skills at the table.

The qualification covers everything from financial reporting and taxation to audit, strategy, and business management, so employers actively seek out ACCA graduates. Here are some facts that prove the demand is increasing globally.

• Firstly, the global market value of ACCA courses was around USD 1.1 billion in 2023. It is expected to double to USD 2.3 billion by 2031. The fact is that its market is growing at a CAGR of 9.6%.
• Secondly, ACCA has become the fourth-largest professional accounting body in the world. Also, the ACCA community has nearly 258,000 members and 530,000 students across more than 180 countries.
• Moreover, a Global Talent Trends Survey was conducted by the ACCA organisation in 2025. It showed that 52% of more than 10,000 finance professionals from 175 countries aim to become entrepreneurs. It is definitely a strong sign of the qualification’s versatility and appeal.
• It has been reported that accounting vacancies are growing, but employers report difficulties in hiring due to a lack of skilled professionals. So, ACCA bridges this gap between theory and practical application, so they are highly in demand.

Therefore, the growing shortage of globally qualified accountants is causing an increased demand for ACCA professionals.

Why Wait?

At the end of the day, every graduate wants clarity about their future. While the options may seem endless, very few qualifications truly prepare you for a global career in finance. ACCA is one of them. It gives young professionals recognition across borders, flexibility to balance life and learning, and the skills that today’s employers are actively searching for. So what are you waiting for? You must join the best institute for ACCA classes in Mumbai and gain an edge over your peers.

If you are a finance graduate wondering “what’s next?”, ACCA is the smartest career move for young graduates like you in the finance industry. It does not just prepare you for a job, but it prepares you for a career that can take you anywhere in the world.

From Students to Shareholders: Hyderabad’s Niveshak Shivir Guides Investors to Safeguard Wealth

Under the aegis of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority, Ministry of Corporates Affairs, jointly organised Niveshak Shivir in Hyderabad on 30th August 2025 at Haryana Bhavan, Secunderabad. This outreach initiative aimed to assist shareholders in reclaiming unpaid dividends and unclaimed shares, thereby reducing the volume of unclaimed investor assets in the system, while also empowering investors to safeguard their investments.

The Shivir was organized in collaboration with leading Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs) including BSE, NSE, NSDL and the Registrar and Transfer Agents (RTAs) – KFin Technologies Limited, Bigshare Services Private Limited, Purva Sharegistry India Private Limited and MUFG Infoline Private Limited. Attendees included students, entrepreneurs, retail investors, and corporate professionals.

The event was graced by Smt. Anita Shah Akella, CEO of IEPFA and Joint Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs; Shri Jeevan Sonparote, Executive Director, SEBI; Shri Sunil Jayawant Kadam, Executive Director, SEBI; Lt. Col Aditya Sinha, General Manager, IEPFA; Shri Binod Sharma, General Manager, SEBI; along with other senior officials from SEBI, IEPFA, MIIs, and RTAs.

Additionally, IEPFA and SEBI, along with other MIIs, launched an insightful Investor Guide developed by CDSL. The guide provides a step-by-step process to help investors resolve their queries related to the claims process.

Unity Bank & BharatPe Partner to Launch India’s 1st EMI-Driven Credit Card

• Unlimited 2% rewards (Zillion Coins) on all spends upon EMI conversion – no capping, no exclusions
• Truly lifetime free – zero joining fee, zero annual fee, zero processing fee, zero foreclosure charges
• Powered by RuPay, the credit card can be linked to UPI for payments across millions of merchants nationwide

BharatPe, India’s leading financial services and UPI payments company, today announced the launch of Unity Bank BharatPe Credit Card, in partnership with Unity Small Finance Bank (Unity Bank).

The Card brings industry-first features designed to make everyday payments including groceries, bill payments, travel, utilities, insurance premiums, and lifestyle spends, both online & offline, smarter and more rewarding. Offered on National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) RuPay network, the card can be seamlessly linked to UPI, enabling secure and convenient payments across millions of merchants in India.

With a zero-fee structure, the card does away with all hidden costs. There are no joining charges, annual fees, processing charges, or foreclosure penalties. Customers also enjoy the flexibility to prepay their EMIs anytime without penalties, making credit access transparent and stress-free.

The card offers flexible EMI options of up to 12 months, helping customers manage big-ticket purchases with ease. What truly sets it apart is its unlimited flat 2% rewards (Zillion Coins) on every transaction upon EMI conversion, across all merchant categories and platforms, without restrictions. Zillion Coins can be redeemed via the BharatPe app for brand vouchers, products, or even to pay credit card bills. Additional lifestyle benefits include complimentary domestic and international lounge access and preventive health check-ups.

Kohinoor Biswas, Head – Consumer Business at BharatPe, said, “Our focus has always been to make access to credit simple, transparent, and inclusive. With the Unity Bank BharatPe Credit Card, customers get a truly lifetime free card with no hidden charges. Moreover, linking of RuPay Credit Card with UPI opens a multitude of convenient payment options for cardholders.The auto-EMI feature further empowers customers to manage their cash flows responsibly, helping them avoid revolving credit traps and high interest rates, typical of traditional cards. This launch reinforces our commitment to deliver accessible, innovative, and value-driven financial solutions for Indian consumers.”

Aditya Harkauli, Chief Business Officer - Digital Banking, Unity Bank, added, “Saying that balancing present & future financial flows is a daily challenge for many, is a truism. The Unity Bank BharatPe Credit Card aims to address this consumer need, by combining instant payments, meaningful credit limits, flexible ‘pay-as-you-use’ options and generous rewards — all on a single, digitally delivered, lifetime free card. Shaped by consumer and market insights & reflective of our endeavour to create functionally useful differentiation, this first of its kind credit card offers both, salaried & self- employed individuals, practical and transparent payment & credit choices.”

How to Apply for the Unity Bank BharatPe Credit Card in six easy steps?

• Download the BharatPe App
• Onboarding: Enter your phone number and PAN to start.
• Complete KYC: Finish your eKYC and VKYC.
• Eligibility Check: Your credit limit will be assigned based on the test results.
• Activate Your Card: Set your billing date and your card PIN.
• Start Using: Your Unity Bank BharatPe Credit Card will be ready for transactions once activated.

About Unity Small Finance Bank Limited:

Unity Small Finance Bank Limited is a Scheduled Commercial Bank, promoted by Centrum Financial Services Ltd. (Subsidiary of BSE & NSE listed – Centrum Capital Ltd.) with Resilient Innovations Pvt Ltd as a joint investor. Driven by its mission to have the highest standards of Corporate Governance, Unity Bank has in place a strong Board comprising of industry veterans. It offers services across Consumer Banking, Business Banking, Inclusive Banking, Digital Banking, SME & Transaction Banking and Treasury Services. The Bank endeavors to offer comprehensive banking services, along with ease of accessibility, reach and speed, using a combination of advanced technology and expert banking services for a superior customer experience.

About BharatPe:

BharatPe (brand name of Resilient Innovations Pvt Ltd) was founded in 2018 to make financial inclusion a reality for Indian merchants. In 2018, it launched India’s first UPI interoperable QR code, the first zero MDR payment acceptance service. In 2020, post-Covid, BharatPe also launched a card acceptance terminal – BharatPe Swipe. Currently, with a registered network of over 2.5 million merchants across 450+ cities, the company is one of the leading players in UPI offline transactions, processing 500 million+ UPI transactions per month.

BharatPe processes payments of a monthly Transaction Processed Value of ₹12,000 crores. BharatPe Money (brand name of Resilient Digi Services Private Limited), a BharatPe Group Company, has already facilitated the disbursement of loans of over US$ 2 billion, in partnership with NBFCs. Recently, the company also ventured into secured loans with the launch of two-wheeler loans, loans against mutual funds, home loans, and loan against property. BharatPe’s POS business processes payments of over ₹27,000 crores annually on its 125,000+ machines. BharatPe has raised over US$ 583 million in equity to date.The company’s list of marquee investors includes Peak XV Partners (formerly known as Sequoia Capital India), Ribbit Capital, Insight Partners, Amplo, Beenext, Coatue Management, Dragoneer Investment Group, Steadfast Capital, Steadview Capital, and Tiger Global.

In June 2021, the company announced the acquisition of PAYBACK India (rebranded to Zillion), the country’s largest multi-brand loyalty program company with 100 million+ members. In October 2021, the consortium of Centrum Financial Services Limited (Centrum) and BharatPe was issued a Small Finance Bank (SFB) license by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). BharatPe also entered the consumer fintech segment with the launch of postpe in October 2021. In January 2023, Resilient Payments Pvt Ltd, a BharatPe Group Company, received an in-principle nod from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as an online payment aggregator. In April 2023, BharatPe acquired a controlling stake in Trillionloans, a renowned NBFC (Non-Banking Financial Company) registered with RBI. In August 2024, the company rebranded the postpe app to BharatPe and ventured into the consumer payments space with the launch of its UPI TPAP. For more details, please visit www.bharatpe.com.

JioFinance App Launches Smart Tax Module with TaxBuddy to Simplify ITR Filing for Indians

To bring unprecedented convenience to taxpayers in India, a feature-packed tax planning and filing module has been introduced on the JioFinance App.

Aimed at making tax planning and income tax return (ITR) filing simpler, smarter, and more affordable for the people of India, the new feature has been developed in partnership with TaxBuddy, an online tax filing and advisory service that offers taxpayers a guided, digital-first experience with built-in compliance and expert support.

The module includes two core features—Tax Planner and Tax Filing. The Tax Filing feature is designed to address common challenges such as confusion between old and new tax regimes, helping customers save taxes by ensuring deductions under sections like 80C and 80D are not missed, and eliminating over-reliance on costly intermediaries.

The Tax Planner helps individuals project and reduce their future tax liabilities by offering personalised deduction mapping, Housing Rent Allowance evaluation, and regime comparisons. The Tax Filing feature allows users to either file returns themselves, or opt for expert-assisted filing, with plans starting as low as ₹24 for self-service options, and ₹999 for assisted options.

Hitesh Sethia, Managing Director and CEO, Jio Financial Services Limited said, “With the deadline for filing taxes approaching, our goal is to remove the complexity that a lot of people associate with tax filing. It is equally important to empower customers with effective tax planning services, allowing them to optimise and maintain visibility over their tax liability through the financial year. The integration of this service with the JioFinance App will enable a seamless experience for tax transactions, backed by expert

support, clear insights, and transparent pricing. The launch of this module adds yet another dimension to our endeavour of delivering accessible, digital-first financial solutions that empower Indians everyday.”

Post their ITR filing, users can monitor their return status, track refunds, and receive alerts for any tax-related notices—all through the app.

The module is designed to be simple and intuitive, even for those with little or no prior tax filing or planning experience. From entering income details to uploading documents and selecting the right tax regime, the process is fully guided, making it easier than ever to plan and file taxes.

This launch adds another key pillar to the JioFinance App’s growing suite of offerings, consolidating its position as a one-stop digital destination, serving the diverse financial needs of customers.

To download the JioFinance app, click here

Invest from ₹500: Jio BlackRock Aims to Revolutionize Indian Mutual Funds

In a bold move poised to reshape India’s mutual fund landscape, Jio BlackRock Asset Management is preparing to launch nearly a dozen equity and debt funds by the end of 2025,said a report by news agency Reuters.

The joint venture between Mukesh Ambani-backed Jio Financial Services and global investment giant BlackRock aims to democratize investing by offering small-ticket, low-cost funds directly to consumers—bypassing traditional distributors.
The firm’s strategy hinges on leveraging Jio’s vast digital ecosystem and BlackRock’s institutional-grade investment platform, Aladdin.

By distributing funds through Jio’s digital platforms such as MyJio and Jio Finance, the asset manager intends to eliminate intermediary costs and pass on the savings to investors. “India’s mutual fund industry is ripe for disruption,” said said the Reuters report citing a person familiar with the strategy. “Jio BlackRock is betting on scale, technology, and affordability to bring millions of new investors into the fold.”

A Digital-First Approach to Investing

Jio BlackRock has already launched three debt mutual fund schemes—Liquid, Money Market, and Overnight—raising over ₹17,800 crore ($2.1 billion) from 90 institutional and 67,000 retail investors. The firm has now applied to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to launch eight additional funds, expanding its product suite to include both active and passive equity and debt offerings.

What sets these funds apart is their accessibility: investors can start with as little as ₹500 (approximately $5.83), a move designed to attract first-time and underserved investors across India.

The Aladdin Advantage

At the heart of Jio BlackRock’s offering is Aladdin, BlackRock’s proprietary investment management platform. Used globally to manage over $20 trillion in assets, Aladdin brings advanced risk analytics, portfolio optimization, and real-time monitoring to the Indian retail market for the first time.
“Retail investors in India have never had access to this level of institutional-grade technology,” said another source of the report. “It’s a game-changer in terms of transparency and performance.”

Challenging the Status Quo

India’s ₹72.2 trillion ($844 billion) mutual fund industry has traditionally relied on third-party distributors and commission-based models. Jio BlackRock’s direct-to-consumer approach threatens to upend this structure by offering lower expense ratios—potentially undercutting competitors by 0.5–0.6%.

This move could pressure legacy players to digitize and reduce fees, while also challenging the role of intermediaries in fund distribution.

A Broader Vision for Financial Inclusion

With over 475 million telecom subscribers and 8 million financial services users, Jio’s digital reach provides a powerful launchpad for financial inclusion. The venture aligns with broader national goals of expanding retail participation in capital markets and improving financial literacy.

“The overwhelming response to our first NFO is a strong endorsement of our digital-first approach and innovative investment philosophy,” said Sid Swaminathan, CEO of Jio BlackRock Asset Management.

What’s Next?

As Jio BlackRock prepares to roll out its next wave of funds, the industry will be watching closely. If successful, the venture could redefine how mutual funds are distributed, priced, and consumed in India—setting a new benchmark for accessibility and innovation in financial services.

Key Highlights

• Joint venture between Jio Financial Services and BlackRock
• Targeting small-ticket investors with ₹500 minimum investment
• Bypassing traditional distributors to reduce costs
• Leveraging Jio’s digital platforms and BlackRock’s Aladdin
• Filed for 8 new funds after raising $2.1B from initial 3
• Potential to disrupt India’s ₹72.2 trillion mutual fund industry

Tata Asset Management Launches All-in-One Investment App to Redefine How India Invests

Tata Asset Management today announced the launch of first of its kind mobile app, aimed at giving users a holistic picture of their financial world. Designed as a unified digital platform, the app brings together simplicity, intelligence, and personalisation, all under the brand platform: "One App. One View. Infinite Opportunities."

Moving beyond the scope of conventional investing apps, the Tata mutual fund app brings together a suite of intelligence tools that support every step of the investor’s journey, starting from on boarding & learning to investing and tracking.

Hemant Kumar, Chief Distribution and Digital Officer, Tata Asset Management.

“One App. One View. Infinite Opportunities isn’t just a tagline; it’s the core of what we’re delivering,” says Hemant Kumar, Chief Distribution and Digital Officer, Tata Asset Management. “Today’s investors expect a single intelligent platform that gives them clarity and control across all their financial assets. This app brings it all together – seamless tracking, one view portfolio, and a personalised experience that empowers users to invest with confidence. It reflects our commitment to innovation, while making wealth creation simpler, smarter, and more accessible.”

Key features of the app include:

1. Financial Roadmap: A dynamic goal setting and tracking tool that helps users visualise, plan, and stay on course to meet their short- and long-term financial objectives.
2. Portfolio 360: A comprehensive dashboard that brings together mutual funds, equity holdings, and bank accounts (savings, current, term, and recurring deposits), offering a complete view of the user’s financial portfolio.
3. FIRE Calculator: A goal-based planning tool to help users track their journey towards financial independence and early retirement.
4. Smart Cart: Lets users save selected investment options in one place, so they can review and invest in them later at their convenience.
5. Chatbot: Integrated customer support that puts help just a tap away.
6. Simple & Secure Onboarding: A seamless sign-up process that ensures fast, safe, and hassle-free access to all features.
7. Learning Modules: Easy-to-access educational content that empowers users to make informed investment decisions.

With ‘One App. One View. Infinite Opportunities’, Tata Asset Management aims to place itself at the heart of India’s digital investing ecosystem. The app is now available for download on the App Store and Google Play.

Explore how a single view can lead to financial possibilities!

To download the APP from Google Play or App Store Scan this code:

Established in 1994, Tata Asset Management Private Limited is the investment manager for Tata Mutual Fund. It is one of the oldest mutual funds in India with a unique folio base of over 59 lakhs (latest available as on 30th April 2025). Tata Mutual Fund takes pride in managing the investments of the common man right from childhood to retirement. It offers a wide choice of funds for every need across the entire risk return spectrum. These include equity funds, debt funds, hybrid funds and few others.

Quest Global and ING Honoured with The Asset Triple A Award for Sustainable Finance 2025

Quest Global, a leading global engineering services firm, today announced that it has been recognized with The Asset Triple A Award for Sustainable Finance 2025 in South Asia, in partnership with ING, in the category of “Best Sustainability-Linked Loan – Engineering Services.”

This achievement is particularly noteworthy as Quest Global is the first engineering services company to have achieved this milestone. This prestigious award celebrates the innovative integration of sustainability into Quest Global's financial strategy.

The award acknowledges Quest Global's and ING's pioneering approach to embedding sustainability within the company's financing framework, a practice that remains relatively uncommon in the outsourced engineering services sector. The developed sustainability-linked loan (SLL) features a balanced discount and penalty mechanism, strategically designed to incentivize Quest Global to achieve significant advancements in its sustainability objectives through enhanced EcoVadis assessment scores.

"We are deeply honoured to receive this distinguished award from The Asset," stated Rajendra Shreemal, Chief Financial Officer, Quest Global. "This recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to sustainability in our business and financial strategy. Our collaboration with ING has been pivotal in crafting a sustainable financing solution. We would like to extend our gratitude to ING for their expertise in structuring this deal and identifying a sustainability-linked loan opportunity with our banking partners."

"We’re proud to showcase ING’s structuring expertise through innovative solutions like this sustainability-linked loan. It underscores our commitment to supporting clients across sectors, including engineering services, in embedding sustainability into their core strategies. We’re honoured that this collaboration is being recognised as a benchmark for impactful financing in the region,” said Michelle Kong, Head of Sector Coverage for ING Asia Pacific.

The Asset Triple A Awards for Sustainable Finance recognize organizations across Asia that actively contribute to and exemplify the burgeoning landscape of sustainable finance. The "Best Deals for Sustainable Finance" category, nominated by participating banks, recognizes transactions that champion sustainable finance across diverse financial instruments, with a focus on their environmental and social contributions as defined by the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.

With this prestigious award, Quest Global and ING reaffirm their commitment to leading the way in sustainable finance and driving positive change within the engineering services industry.

PayPal Partners With India's NSDC to Empower Youth With Industry-relevant Skills in Financial Sector

National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has partnered with PayPal to empower youth, including women, from low-income families through skill development across India. As part of PayPal CSR programme, the two organisations formalised their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a comprehensive skill development initiative, specifically targeting India's Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector.

Dr Rishikesh Patankar, Vice President, NSDC and Srini Venkatesan, Global Chief Technology Officer, PayPal, exchanged the MoU in presence of senior members of both the organisations on Friday.

The key objective of the MoU is the economic empowerment for thousands of youth, with a special focus on women from low-income families through skill development. The candidates will be provided livelihood opportunities through skill enhancement, soft skills and personality development training. The training will ensure that they are job-ready.

Dr Rishikesh Patankar said, “At NSDC, our mission is to prepare youth with the essential skills required for employment. This collaboration signifies a major step forward in empowering the youth and women of India to play a vital role in the nation’s progress and development. By providing them with industry-specific skills in the financial sector, we are opening doors to opportunities for meaningful careers and entrepreneurial endeavours."

As per the MoU, specialised training programmes that are National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF)-aligned will be offered to candidates. They will be provided training courses of 420 hours to 480 hours in their respective fintech domains, including Bancassurance Relationship Associate, Customer Service Associate- Financial Services, Sales Associate- Direct Channel, MIS Analyst- Financial Services, GST Assistant and Account Assistant. This will ensure that the candidates receive high-quality training and develop the financial acumen needed to secure a job or embark on their entrepreneurial journey in the sector.

V. Chandramouliswaran , Vice President PayPal India Global Technology centre said “We are delighted to partner with NSDC in this unique initiative which directly supports the Indian Government’s Skill India vision. Collaborating with NSDC allows us to empower Indian youth and women with valuable skills, opening doors to economic opportunity and enabling them to contribute to India's vibrant growth story."

NSDC will implement the project across various districts in the country, including Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Patna (Bihar), Hyderabad (Telangana), Surat (Gujarat), Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Bengaluru (Karnataka), Mumbai (Maharashtra), and Ranchi (Jharkhand). As of March 11, 2025, candidates are undergoing training across these districts.

NSDC will also support the candidates in their endeavour to secure jobs through its extensive network. It will ensure that at least 70% of the candidates participate in job fairs and interviews. NSDC will also help candidates explore self-employment opportunities.

This partnership is expected to narrow the skill gap in the BFSI sector while supporting budding individuals realise their dreams of making a career in the sector.

RBI to Test CBDC With Its Own Officials

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is planning to test its Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) by crediting a portion of allowances to the digital wallets of its officers reports Economic Times citing an internal communique to senior officials of the central bank.

The RBI internal communique dated December 27, said, “As a part of scaling up of CBDC retail pilot and to encourage the use of CBDC wallet by the officers of the bank (RBI), it has been decided to credit the reimbursement amount towards internet/data charges to the CBDC wallets of officers…”

A user manual for updating the CBDC wallets has been circulated. The testing phase involves various aspects such as security, transaction speed, and user experience to ensure a smooth rollout.

This move is part of a broader effort to explore the potential of CBDCs and understand how they can be integrated into the existing financial system.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been actively exploring the concept of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). Recently, there have been reports about RBI officials conducting tests to understand the potential impact and functionality of a CBDC in the Indian financial system.

These tests are part of a broader initiative to evaluate how a digital currency issued by the central bank could be integrated into the existing monetary framework. The RBI is considering various aspects, including the technological infrastructure, security measures, and the potential economic implications of introducing a CBDC.

What Is Embedded Finance?

Embedded finance is transforming how consumers and businesses interact with financial services, making them more accessible, convenient, and integrated into everyday activities.

Embedded finance is a rapidly growing trend where financial services are integrated into non-financial platforms and applications. This allows users to access financial services seamlessly within the tools and services they already use.

Major e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and Myntra have integrated digital payment solutions, enabling users to make secure and convenient transactions directly from their smartphones. These firms also offer options like EMI (Equated Monthly Installment) cards and Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services, making it easier for customers to manage their finances.

Companies like Ola and Uber have embedded financial services within their apps, allowing users to pay for rides, split fares, and even access micro-loans for vehicle maintenance or personal emergencies.

Within Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS), companies like Stripe and Plaid offer APIs that enable non-financial businesses to integrate banking services into their platforms. For example, a retail app might offer a "Buy Now, Pay Later" option at checkout.

In a real world example of embedded finance in retail, Walmart offers a seamless shopping experience with its online store, mobile app, and physical stores, allowing customers to switch between channels effortlessly. In an another, Starbucks uses its mobile app to integrate loyalty rewards, payments, and order-ahead services, creating a cohesive customer experience.

One aspect of Embedded Finance is White-Label Neobanking where businesses can launch their own branded financial products without building the infrastructure from scratch. This is often done through partnerships with licensed banks and technology providers.

Embedded finance platforms can facilitate real-time transactions, reducing delays associated with traditional banking. For instance, DailyPay allows workers to access their earned wages instantly through their employer's app.

Digital Wallets and Mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Wallet integrate payment services directly into users' smartphones, making transactions more convenient and secure.

Digital wallets like Paytm and PhonePe offer embedded financial services, including bill payments, money transfers, and access to credit facilities, all within the wallet app.

Besides, it also entails Embedded Insurance where in companies can offer insurance products directly within their platforms. For example, a travel booking site might provide travel insurance options during the booking process.

Further, Embedded Lending also falls under the embdedd finance realm where non-financial companies can offer loans and financing options to their customers. For instance, a car dealership might provide auto loans directly through its website.

These examples illustrate how embedded finance is making financial services more accessible, convenient, and integrated into everyday activities.

Benefits of Embedded Finance

• Enhanced Customer Experience: By integrating financial services into their platforms, businesses can offer a seamless and convenient experience for their customers.
• Increased Revenue Streams: Businesses can generate additional revenue by offering financial products and services directly to their customers.
• Financial Inclusion: Embedded finance can help reach underserved populations by providing access to financial services through familiar platforms.

Embedded finance is revolutionizing the way financial services are accessed and delivered, making them more accessible, convenient, and integrated into everyday activities.

Bajaj Finance Secures $400 Mn Loan From IFC to Support Women Micro-Entrepreneurs/Borrowers and Boost EVs Sales

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, has committed a $400 million loan to Bajaj Finance to boost electric vehicle (EV) sales and support energy-efficient consumer goods in India. This funding is part of Bajaj Finance's $1 billion fundraising plan.

This funding is part of Bajaj Finance's $1 billion fundraising plan and aims to increase competitiveness in the climate finance market, support India's climate goals, and promote financial inclusion.

The loan aims to expand access to finance for customers purchasing EVs, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers, as well as energy-efficient appliances.

The initiative also focuses on supporting women-owned microenterprises and women micro-borrowers. The funding will promote financial inclusion by ensuring that more women have access to the necessary resources to start and expand their businesses.

This partnership is expected to quadruple Bajaj Finance's climate loan portfolio to $600 million by 2027, contributing to India's net-zero goals.

The funding will increase competitiveness in the climate finance market and promote financial inclusion.

Sandeep Jain, CFO & COO of Bajaj Finance, highlighted that responsible business practices driven by their ESG principles are foundational to their operations.

Imad N Fakhoury, Regional Director for South Asia at IFC, mentioned that accelerating climate financing is crucial for India to meet its net-zero goals and that this investment will inspire other NBFCs and investors to expand their financing for energy-efficient solutions, e-mobility, and microfinance.