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Clean Fanatics Raises $2M to Transform Home Services
Banking, Markets - July 7, 2025

FINO Payments Bank Eyes ₹100 Crore Profit in FY26 Amid Strong Digital Shift

FINO Payments Bank Eyes ₹100 Crore Profit in FY26 Amid Strong Digital Shift

FINO Payments Bank, a prominent player in India’s fintech space, has unveiled an ambitious roadmap for FY26 as it aims to achieve a net profit of ₹100 crore. This sharp growth target comes on the back of rising digital adoption, expanding merchant reach, and a strong push towards financial inclusion. The bank’s strategic evolution highlights the growing confidence of fintech institutions in tapping India’s underserved markets through tech-driven solutions.

Riding the Digital Momentum

A key pillar of FINO’s growth plan is its increasing focus on digital transactions. The bank anticipates that around 49% of its transactions in FY26 will be digital, a significant leap from just 21% in the previous year. This reflects the larger industry-wide trend of customers shifting from cash-based dealings to convenient digital platforms.

The bank expects its revenue from digital channels to exceed 25% in the current fiscal. This marks a strategic shift not just in service delivery but also in profitability, as digital transactions typically come with lower operating costs and higher margins. Tools like QR codes, PoS machines, and innovative audio-based payment confirmations are now key enablers in FINO’s ecosystem.

Expanding Reach and Product Portfolio

FINO’s network of merchants has now surpassed 1.9 million across India, forming the backbone of its services. These merchants function as local banking points, allowing the bank to serve customers even in the most remote regions. This widespread reach supports the bank’s hybrid model—combining physical access with digital efficiency.

In terms of offerings, FINO is stepping up innovation. It is developing new digital products like Soundbox devices that deliver voice alerts for transactions—ideal for small shopkeepers in busy or noisy environments. It is also working on offline QR solutions that enable transactions even in areas with poor connectivity.

Moreover, the bank plans to expand its prepaid instruments, digital wallets, and bulk disbursement services. These enhancements aim to increase usage among both customers and merchants, encouraging repeat transactions and improving user stickiness.

Robust Customer Base

As of March 2025, FINO serves over 1.43 crore users, of which 53 lakh are active on digital platforms. This shows a growing customer preference for mobile-based and remote banking services. The company’s strong customer base, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 regions, provides it with a competitive advantage over digital-only players that often struggle to build trust beyond urban centers.

Strong Financial Performance in FY25

FINO ended FY25 on a high note, recording a 30% jump in revenue, rising from ₹150 crore in FY24 to ₹195 crore. Its net profit stood at ₹93 crore, reflecting an annual growth of over 8%. Return on Equity (ROE) and Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) were 13.6% and 6.67%, respectively. These numbers showcase the company’s operational efficiency and its readiness to scale sustainably.

With consistent earnings and improved margins from digital operations, FINO believes reaching ₹100 crore in profit for FY26 is well within reach.

Cost Efficiency and Deposit Growth

The bank has been focusing on maintaining a lean cost structure. Its cost-to-income ratio is targeted around 25%, a mark of financial discipline that boosts long-term sustainability. To further strengthen its foundation, FINO is working on increasing its CASA (Current and Savings Account) base—essential for reducing the cost of funds and enhancing interest income margins.

Looking Ahead: Plans to Become a Small Finance Bank

One of the most significant developments on the horizon is FINO’s plan to transition into a Small Finance Bank (SFB). This change would allow the institution to expand its lending capabilities, offer fixed deposits, and introduce new loan products like housing and MSME financing.

The transformation from a payments bank to an SFB is expected to open doors to a broader customer base and improve revenue streams. More importantly, it would enable FINO to serve its existing network with an extended range of services, strengthening its position in the rural and semi-urban banking ecosystem.

Challenges and Competitive Landscape

Despite its strengths, FINO operates in a highly competitive fintech market. Established players and emerging neobanks are rapidly gaining ground in the digital space. Companies like Jio Payments Bank, Paytm Payments Bank, and app-based challengers like PhonePe and Jupiter are all vying for market share.

However, FINO’s edge lies in its deep physical reach combined with tech-enabled delivery—a combination that many digital-only players cannot yet replicate effectively.

Conclusion

FINO Payments Bank’s profit target of ₹100 crore for FY26 reflects its confidence in the evolving digital landscape and its ability to serve India’s vast underserved population. With a strong merchant network, growing digital revenue, and plans to upgrade to a Small Finance Bank, FINO is well-positioned for the next phase of its journey.

If successful, it will not only mark a milestone for the company but also reinforce the potential of hybrid fintech models in driving financial inclusion and profitability across India.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Healthcare Sector in India Set to Record 11% Rise in Revenue and EBITDA in Q1 FY26

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Jio Financial Acquires Remaining SBI Stake to Fully Own Jio Payments Bank in ₹104.54 Crore Deal
Market News - June 19, 2025

Dugar Jio Financial Acquires Remaining SBI Stake to Fully Own Jio Payments Bank in ₹104.54 Crore Deal Raises $3 Million to Boost EV, Solar Lending

Jio Financial Acquires Remaining SBI Stake to Fully Own Jio Payments Bank in ₹104.54 Crore Deal

Jio Financial Services Limited (JFSL) has finalized the purchase of the remaining shares in Jio Payments Bank Limited (JPBL) from the State Bank of India (SBI), valued at ₹104.54 crore. This acquisition grants Jio Financial full ownership of Jio Payments Bank, enabling it to strengthen its footprint in the digital banking arena.

Transaction Highlights: Jio Acquires SBI’s Entire Stake

Before this purchase, JFSL already controlled 82.2% of Jio Payments Bank, while SBI held a 17.8% share. Through this deal, Jio Financial has now acquired SBI’s full stake, equivalent to nearly 7.91 crore equity shares. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) provided the green light for this transaction on June 4, 2025.With the required approval in place, Jio Payments Bank has now come under the complete ownership of Jio Financial Services.

Stock Movement and Market Outlook

Post-announcement, JFSL’s stock attracted attention from market participants. Despite slight price variations, the stock largely remained stable, indicating positive investor sentiment towards this acquisition. Market experts view this as a calculated step that aligns well with Jio Financial’s ambition to expand its presence in the financial services space.

Strategic Edge for Jio Financial

By securing complete ownership, Jio Financial gains the freedom to fully shape the growth strategy and operations of Jio Payments Bank. This paves the way for smoother integration across Jio’s financial offerings and allows the company to quickly roll out new digital payment and banking solutions.

This deal also strengthens synergies between Jio Financial’s product lines, including savings accounts, UPI services, merchant payment solutions, and digital investment products. The acquisition comes as part of Jio’s broader push into financial services, which also includes its collaboration with BlackRock to launch mutual fund products in India.

Customer Benefits and Growth Outlook

For Jio’s customers, this development could mean faster innovation, improved service quality, and stronger integration with other Jio services such as telecom and retail. Customers are likely to benefit from smooth digital financial solutions and a more integrated banking ecosystem.

The acquisition allows Jio Financial to respond quickly to changes in market trends and regulatory requirements. Users are likely to enjoy smooth digital financial services with a more integrated and cohesive banking journey.

Strengthening Position in the Digital Banking Race

India’s digital banking space remains highly competitive, with key players like Paytm Payments Bank, Airtel Payments Bank, and India Post Payments Bank holding firm positions. By fully acquiring Jio Payments Bank, Jio Financial is now better positioned to compete head-to-head with these major players.

Jio’s extensive telecom infrastructure, massive user base, and digital-first approach provide unique advantages. The company can leverage these strengths to quickly expand its digital banking services across both metro cities and rural markets. Jio Financial can also develop bundled digital solutions to attract users looking for one-stop financial platforms.

Broader Impact and SBI’s Shift in Focus

This transaction also highlights a wider trend where traditional banks like SBI appear to be focusing more on their core banking operations rather than joint digital ventures. SBI’s choice to exit its stake likely signals a shift in focus towards strengthening its core banking operations.

For the fintech sector, Jio’s full acquisition of its payments bank raises the level of competition. It is likely to push other digital finance players to innovate more quickly and offer better customer experiences.

India’s Digital Finance Boom

India’s digital finance industry has grown rapidly in the past few years. This growth has been propelled by the increasing reliance on instant payment systems like UPI, the widespread use of mobile wallet apps, and the steady shift towards cashless payment preferences. These changes have reshaped how both individuals and businesses handle transactions, making digital payments faster, safer, and more convenient across the nation.

Conclusion

Jio Financial’s ₹104.54 crore acquisition of SBI’s remaining stake in Jio Payments Bank marks a strategic move that bolsters its digital banking capabilities. Full ownership will enable Jio to drive its digital finance agenda more aggressively, offer better customer-centric solutions, and potentially change the competitive dynamics of the sector.

Backed by Jio’s extensive digital network and solid market presence, this move is poised to significantly influence the evolution of India’s digital financial landscape. Stakeholders across the market will now closely watch Jio’s next moves in this fast-evolving landscape.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Dugar Finance Raises $3 Million to Boost EV, Solar Lending

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PB Fintech’s Q4 FY25 profit soars 185% on digital insurance growth.
Result Updates - May 16, 2025

PB Fintech’s Q4 FY25 profit soars 185% on digital insurance growth.

PB Fintech’s Q4 FY25 profit soars 185% on digital insurance growth.

 

PB Fintech Limited, the parent company of leading online insurance platform Policybazaar and credit marketplace Paisabazaar, announced a remarkable financial performance for the quarter ended March 2025. The company reported a consolidated net profit of ₹171 crore for Q4 FY25, soaring by 185% compared to the same period last year, driven primarily by a surge in its digital insurance business.

Revenue Expansion Driven by Insurance Premium Growth

During the quarter, PB Fintech’s total revenue from operations climbed 38% year-on-year (YoY) to ₹1,508 crore. The digital insurance segment, anchored by Policybazaar, emerged as the key growth engine, generating ₹877 crore in revenue — a 31% increase from the previous year. The health insurance vertical experienced strong demand, contributing significantly to the overall premium inflows.
Insurance premiums sourced via the platform rose by 37% to ₹7,030 crore during the quarter, underscoring rising customer adoption of online insurance products across health and life segments. However, some softness was observed in the savings insurance vertical, impacted by changing consumer preferences.

Paisabazaar Maintains Strong Loan Disbursements Despite Revenue Pressure

In contrast to the insurance business, Paisabazaar, PB Fintech’s credit platform, saw a 21% decline in revenue during Q4 FY25. This decrease reflects tightening lending norms and a more cautious credit environment. Nevertheless, Paisabazaar continued to deliver strong loan disbursements, reaching ₹2,368 crore in the quarter, and ₹20,465 crore over the full fiscal year — representing a 38% year-on-year increase.
This indicates a steady demand for personal loans and other credit products, which could support future revenue recovery as market conditions stabilize.

Exceptional Full-Year Profit Jump Reflects Operational Efficiency

For the entire fiscal year FY25, PB Fintech posted an outstanding consolidated net profit of ₹353 crore, surging 448% compared to ₹64 crore in FY24. This dramatic improvement signals the company’s successful transition from aggressive growth investment towards sustainable profitability.
Annual revenue expanded 45% to ₹4,977 crore from ₹3,434 crore in the previous year. The combined revenues from Policybazaar and Paisabazaar reached ₹3,073 crore, while emerging verticals like PB Partners, PB UAE, and PB for Business contributed ₹1,904 crore — marking an impressive 79% growth.

Investor Sentiment and Market Reaction

Following the earnings announcement, PB Fintech’s shares witnessed a positive response, rising more than 4% in intraday trading on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), with the stock reaching an intraday high of ₹1,854.70. Market analysts welcomed the results, emphasizing margin expansion and healthy growth prospects.
Jefferies retained a ‘Buy’ rating on PB Fintech, assigning a target price of ₹2,000, while Citi maintained a ‘Buy’ recommendation with a target of ₹2,150, both highlighting the company’s profitability trajectory and expanding digital insurance footprint.

Strategic Growth Initiatives

Looking ahead, PB Fintech plans to deepen its penetration into Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, aiming to capture the growing demand for insurance and credit products among digitally savvy consumers in these regions. The company will continue to innovate its offerings and expand its distribution network to maintain market leadership.
Furthermore, PB Fintech intends to accelerate growth in its newer verticals — including PB Partners, which focuses on financial services for small businesses, and PB for Business, targeting corporate insurance solutions. The international arm, PB UAE, is also expected to contribute more significantly to revenue in the coming years.

Challenges and Outlook

Despite the strong financial performance, PB Fintech faces certain challenges such as evolving regulatory norms in the credit sector, which could impact Paisabazaar’s near-term revenue. Additionally, increasing competition from both traditional insurers and emerging fintech firms might pressure margins.
Macroeconomic uncertainties, including inflation and interest rate fluctuations, also pose risks to consumer spending on financial products. However, PB Fintech’s diversified portfolio, strong brand presence, and technology-driven approach provide a solid foundation to navigate these hurdles.

Conclusion

PB Fintech’s Q4 FY25 results highlight a significant profit surge alongside robust revenue growth, underscoring its leadership in India’s digital insurance and credit markets. While Paisabazaar’s revenue faced some pressure, the platform’s strong loan disbursal performance reflects ongoing customer demand.
Backed by a strong balance sheet and a clear strategic vision, PB Fintech is well-positioned to capitalize on expanding digital adoption and evolving financial needs in India’s growing economy.

 

 

 

 

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Welspun Enterprises Q4 FY25 Earnings: Net Profit Surges by 30%

 

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Decentro Secures ₹30 Crore to Power Fintech Innovation
Business, Market News - April 15, 2025

India's Fintech Journey: Progress and Future Ahead

India’s Fintech Journey: Progress and Future Ahead

 

Introduction: A Decade of Progress, A Century of Potential

India’s fintech sector has evolved dramatically in the past decade, with digital wallets, UPI, and instant loans transforming how citizens interact with money. Yet, according to MobiKwik cofounder Upasana Taku, the journey is only beginning. In a recent interview, she emphasized that while India has achieved foundational digital infrastructure, only 10% of the population uses multiple financial products. This signals that a vast, untapped opportunity remains to democratize access to savings, insurance, credit, and investments for the broader population.

Digital Payments: The First Frontier of Financial Transformation

Taku highlighted how digital payments became the entry point for many Indians into the formal financial system. The surge in UPI transactions and wallet usage—especially post-demonetization and during the COVID-19 pandemic—laid the groundwork for fintech growth. MobiKwik, once known predominantly for wallet-based payments, has expanded into BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later), insurance distribution, credit lines, and merchant payments. However, she notes that financial services penetration is still shallow, and multi-product adoption is essential to unlock long-term sectoral value.

A Vision for 10X Growth: Diversification and Depth

Looking ahead, Taku expressed confidence in achieving tenfold growth in the next few years by moving beyond just payments. MobiKwik’s roadmap includes a deeper push into personal finance, including digital lending, wealth management, small-ticket insurance, and embedded finance solutions. As the company scales, the goal is not just user acquisition but increasing wallet share per customer by becoming a one-stop shop for all things finance. In her view, consumer trust, intelligent product bundling, and real-time credit risk models will define the next wave of fintech innovation.

Profitability Over Growth-at-Any-Cost

In a break from the earlier startup mindset that prioritized user growth over profitability, Taku emphasized that MobiKwik is now focused on unit economics and sustainable profitability. As macroeconomic pressures such as inflation and global rate hikes challenge consumer spending, and regulatory tightening by the RBI increases compliance costs, only financially sound companies will thrive. She sees this as an opportunity to build with resilience, as investors now seek innovation, monetization clarity, and disciplined execution.

Regulatory Landscape: Challenge and Catalyst

The RBI has been increasingly active in shaping the fintech space, introducing frameworks around digital lending, data privacy, KYC norms, and account aggregators. While some players view regulations as a barrier, Taku considers them a necessary filter to separate serious fintech builders from opportunistic entrants. She calls for more dialogue between the industry and regulators to balance innovation and consumer protection. Taku notes that India’s success in fintech will depend on an inclusive, transparent, and compliant ecosystem.

Enhancing Access to Financial Products: Inclusion is the Next Key Progress

Taku stressed the need for financial inclusion beyond metro cities, pointing out that Tier 2, 3, and 4 towns still lack access to basic financial products. She believes that language localization, simple interfaces, and AI-driven customer support are crucial to onboarding the following 300 million users. Moreover, partnerships with NBFCs, banks, and local retailers can be powerful enablers to reach India’s underbanked population. She envisions the fusion of financial technology and regional advancements as a driving force behind the breakthroughs of the coming decade.

The Road Ahead: Collaboration, Innovation, and Impact

India asserts that the fintech sector, already among the largest in the world by transaction volume, is entering a more mature and mission-driven phase. She envisions a future where fintech simplifies daily transactions and empowers individuals with economic agency, digital credit history, and access to growth capital. Collaboration with regulators, traditional banks, and technology startups will be key to building a decentralized, secure, and inclusive financial ecosystem. The race is no longer about scale alone—it’s about impact, trust, and transformation.

Conclusion: A Country of a Billion Wallets and Billions of Dreams

India’s fintech journey, while impressive, is still in its adolescence. As Upasana Taku rightly points out, building for Bharat—the broader, diverse, and ambitious population—is the next great challenge and opportunity. MobiKwik and similar companies are leading the way as digital platforms and in promoting financial dignity. The path ahead will require courage, compliance, and creativity, but if done right, India could become the most inclusive fintech ecosystem in the world.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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CSL Strategizes to Shield Lifesaving Therapies from Tariff Impacts

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