The launch builds on the strong track record of AYF I and AYF II. The maiden scheme has been fully deployed, with approximately Rs. 120 crore invested across four rent-yielding office assets in Bengaluru and Mumbai, delivering a weighted average yield of 8.6%. The second scheme has raised Rs. 135.9 crore, with Rs. 46.41 crore already deployed across two warehouse and office assets in Mumbai, generating a weighted average yield of 8.2%.

AYF III will focus on investing in stable, high-quality, pre-leased Grade A/A+ office and warehousing assets, two of India’s fastest-growing real estate segments while avoiding risks associated with greenfield development. The fund is targeting a 16–18% internal rate of return (IRR) over a 4–5 year hold period, with prudent leverage to enhance overall portfolio returns.

The investment team is currently evaluating a strong pipeline of approximately Rs. 2,520 crore across Bengaluru, NCR, and Pune.

India’s office market is poised for sustained growth, driven by increasing global outsourcing and expansion of Global Capability Centres (GCCs). Multinationals continue to scale operations in India due to significant cost advantages, while domestic technology firms are accelerating office expansion amid return-to-office trends. These dynamics, combined with an easing interest rate cycle, are expected to support cap rate compression and enhance exit outcomes.

Alt Capital’s leadership team brings deep institutional expertise, having previously played a key role in building office portfolios at global real estate major Blackstone Group. The team collectively brings experience across over $3 billion in real estate investments.

Commenting on the launch, Kunal Moktan, CEO and Co-founder, Alt Capital, said, “Following up on the success of AYF I and AYF II, we are excited to launch the third scheme under AltCap Yield Fund targeting income-generating office and warehousing assets in India. 

We believe AYF III is the right vehicle for investors looking to invest in Indian commercial real estate as it ensures diversification across 4-5 assets, advantages of leverage and the potential of sharper exit yields through a portfolio exit.”

Srinivas Mendu, CEO, FundsIndia Private Wealth, further stated, “We are delighted to partner with Alt Capital on AYF III as we raise Rs. 1,000 crores from our investors. Our conviction is strengthened by AltCap’s institutional pedigree and its alignment with high-quality platforms backed by WestBridge Capital. The team’s experience, including significant deployment during their time at Blackstone, combined with a disciplined investment approach, gives us strong confidence in the strategy.

Importantly, the focus on premium, pre-leased Grade A+ assets with no developer risk provides stability, predictable cash flows, and attractive risk-adjusted returns. We believe this partnership enables us to deliver a compelling solution to our clients, one that combines institutional quality, capital preservation, and steady income, ultimately providing greater confidence and peace of mind in their investment journey.”

AYF III is targeted at institutional investors, HNIs, family offices, and select domestic and NRI investors

About Alt Capital & Alt
Alt Capital is a SEBI-registered Portfolio Manager, Investment Advisor, and Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) manager, focused on delivering returns through high-yield, rent-generating real estate assets across India’s key offshoring hubs. Founded by Kunal Moktan and Hashim Khan, the firm brings deep institutional expertise. Kunal, an IIM Ahmedabad alumnus, has over 15 years of real estate investment experience, including 7+ years with Blackstone Group, while Hashim combines 15+ years of experience in technology and operations with prior leadership roles in a large Middle Eastern real estate conglomerate. Since 2016, the founders have collectively invested over Rs. 2,378 crore in real estate and returned approximately Rs. 675 crore to investors.

Alt Capital is a wholly owned subsidiary of Alt, a Series B-funded, tech-enabled platform backed by investors including WestBridge Capital, Lightspeed, Beenext, and Pravega Ventures. Alt has been at the forefront of democratizing access to alternative assets, having pioneered fractional real estate investing in India through Property Share, which became the first platform to receive a Small and Medium REIT license from SEBI. With a presence across Mumbai, Bengaluru, and London, Alt offers access to a diversified suite of alternative investments spanning private credit, real estate, and listed REITs across global markets, serving over 300,000 users and managing more than $250 million in assets.

About FundsIndia
Founded in 2008, FundsIndia is one of India’s pioneering digital-first wealth management platforms, focused on simplifying investing for individuals, partners, and families nationwide. Built on a foundation of research-led insights, robust technology, and customer trust, FundsIndia enables investors to make informed, goal-oriented financial decisions with clarity and confidence. 

Backed by WestBridge Capital, a leading global investment firm, FundsIndia has further strengthened its capabilities through long-term strategic capital, governance expertise, and a strong focus on scalable, technology-driven growth.The company operates through three integrated business verticals, Digital (Retail), B2B (Partners), and Private Wealth, each led by dedicated leadership and working in close alignment to deliver scalable, long-term value. Together, these verticals serve a diverse investor base through a seamless blend of digital and advisor-led experiences.FundsIndia offers a comprehensive suite of investment solutions spanning mutual funds, equities, insurance, and other wealth products, supported by intuitive digital journeys, strong research capabilities, and personalized guidance. Headquartered in India and backed by institutional investors, FundsIndia remains committed to its mission of making investing simpler, more transparent, and accessible, helping millions of Indians build long-term wealth through disciplined, technology-enabled investing.

The company has announced plans to empower 20,000 new members by 2027, focusing on scaling financial inclusion in the region. This reiterates DJT Microfinance’s commitment to deliver microfinance services to low-income households with a focus on empowering women to become self-employed in underserved and rural areas of the country through convenient and secure loans. As part of the initial phase, the company will focus on the Lower Brahmaputra Valley agro-climatic zone, covering districts including Darrang, Tamulpur, Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon, Chirang, Udalguri, and Bajali.

Avinash Kumar, Chief Operating Officer, DJT Microfinance said, “Our expansion in Assam reflects our long-term commitment to responsible financial inclusion in regions where access to formal credit remains limited. Assam offers a unique combination of accessibility, economic potential and strong portfolio stability. We intend to adopt a calibrated expansion approach, focusing on disciplined growth, strong governance standards, and customer-centric products tailored to local requirements.”

The expansion will be primarily driven through the Joint Liability Group (JLG) lending model, which enables access to credit for low-income households and micro-entrepreneurs who often remain outside the formal financial system. DJT Microfinance recently commenced its operations in the state and is currently undertaking detailed market assessments and area surveys to design financial products aligned with local economic activities and borrower needs. Alongside its existing offerings, the company plans to introduce need-based products tailored to regional demand patterns.

Avinash Kumar further added, “Our lending framework will remain aligned with the NBFC-MFI regulatory guidelines, targeting households with annual incomes of up to ₹3 lakh. We also ensure that the fixed obligation to income ratio does not exceed 50% of the household’s monthly income. We will continue to adhere strictly to SRO guardrails while expanding our portfolio of services in the region.”

Currently, DJT Microfinance operates 75 branches across five states, serving approximately 75 thousand customers. Over the next three years, DJT Microfinance aims to build a scalable and stable portfolio in the Northeast, beginning with Assam. The strategy will focus on disciplined customer acquisition, prudent underwriting, and strong asset quality management.

Through its phased expansion strategy, DJT Microfinance aims to deepen access to formal financial services for underserved households while building a resilient and quality-driven portfolio across eastern and northeastern India.

Pralay Mondal, MD & CEO, CSB Bank, at the launch of Smart Save Account, their first retail offering following the upgrade of its Core Banking Platform

The new account, available in Savings, Current & NRO variants, aims to enhance returns on idle balances while maintaining liquidity. It features auto-sweep facility that transfers surplus funds into Fixed Deposits. The account offers up to 7% interest on sweep-in Fixed Deposits with a 13-month tenure thereby enabling customers to earn interest on excess funds without manual intervention.

The launch comes as part of CSB Bank’s broader digital transformation strategy, with the upgraded core infrastructure enabling rollout of automation-led, customer-centric offerings.

Designed for Today’s Dynamic Customers:

• Savings Account: Targeted at salaried individuals and customers maintaining higher balances.

• Current Account: Designed for businesses and professionals managing fluctuating cash flows.

• NRO Account: Aimed at Non-Resident Indians for managing India-sourced income such as rent, dividends and pensions.

Key Features:

• Auto-sweep facility of surplus funds into fixed deposits

• Up to 7% interest on 13-month sweep-in deposits

• No lock-in, ensuring anytime liquidity

• Complimentary RuPay Platinum debit card

• Up to 30% discount on locker rentals

Mr. Anupam Kumar, Head – Liabilities, CSB Bank, said, “The Smart Save Account represents our vision of simplifying banking while enhancing value for our customers. With features like auto sweep, attractive returns, and seamless liquidity, we are enabling customers to make their money work harder—without compromising on convenience. This launch is another step forward in our journey to build a digitally empowered, customer-first bank.”

With this launch, CSB Bank aims to strengthen its retail franchise by leveraging its upgraded technology platform to deliver more efficient and flexible banking solutions

About CSB Bank Limited

CSB Bank is one of the oldest private sector banks in India with an existence of over 100 years. Bank has a strong base in Kerala along with significant presence in Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. CSB Bank offers a wide range of products and services to customers, with particular focus on SME, Retail, and NRI customers. CSB Bank delivers its services through multiple channels, including 855 branches and 826 ATMs/CRMs across the country, as well as alternate digital channels such as debit cards, internet banking, mobile banking, point-of-sale services, and UPI. CSB Bank is listed on both NSE and BSE.

Learn more at: www.csb.bank.in.

CPL 2.0 introduces higher rewards and a broader participation framework

Over the past decade, Paisabazaar has been at the forefront of building credit awareness in India through its free credit score initiative, helping millions of consumers access, understand, and improve their credit health. CPL, according to Paisabazaar, is a natural extension of this commitment—designed to make credit awareness more engaging, participative, and action-oriented.

Santosh Agarwal, CEO, Paisabazaar, said,  "Driving large-scale awareness and engagement around credit has been central to our journey. With CPL, we are bringing together engagement, gamification and rewards to make conversations around credit score more mainstream. Our focus remains on building a financially aware and credit-healthy Bharat-in line with our brand purpose ‘Har Sapna Hoga Sach’, enabling consumers to make informed financial decisions."

Building on the strong traction from its previous edition, CPL 2.0 introduces higher rewards and a broader participation framework. Individual(s) with the highest score in the country will win Rs. 1 lakh, while champions from each state will receive Rs. 10,000 each. In addition, all participants from the winning state (with the highest average credit score) will also be rewarded.

All rewards won in CPL 2.0 will be credited to winners’ PB Wallet, enabling them to seamlessly pay their credit card bills, recharge prepaid mobiles, and settle postpaid and utility bills directly on the Paisabazaar platform—making the rewards instantly usable and relevant to everyday financial needs.

The first edition of CPL saw over 5.5 million participants, with the highest score touching 861. Delhi emerged as the top-performing city, recording the highest average credit score of 746.

CPL 2.0 builds on this momentum by combining engagement, gamification, and rewards to make credit awareness more accessible and compelling.

Consumers can participate by checking their free credit score on the Paisabazaar platform or app. The CPL leaderboard and rankings will be available exclusively on the Paisabazaar App.

About Paisabazaar
Paisabazaar, a part of PB Fintech (listed since 2021), is India’s largest marketplace for consumer credit and free credit score. Over the last 11 years, Paisabazaar has earned the trust of over 55 million consumers. Paisabazaar has built 65+ partnerships withBanks, NBFCs, and fintechs to offer a broad range of credit products. Paisabazaar is ISO (27001:2013) and PCI DSS certified organisation, with industry-best controls, to safeguard the best interest of consumers.

Building Foundational AI Models for Banking in India from India

The round also saw participation from a powerhouse group of fintech veterans and technologists, including Navin Kukreja (Founder, Paisabazaar), Gaurav Aggarwal (former CXO, Paisabazaar), Prasanna Rao (Co-founder, Arya.ag), along with a diverse group of Bay Area angels and also counts leading investors including Brigade REAP, Prarambh Ventures, IIMA Ventures, Inflection Point Ventures on its cap table.

Revolutionizing Secured Lending through AI

The capital infusion comes as India’s financial services sector undergoes a structural shift toward AI adoption in secured lending, risk assessment, and underwriting. With Micro-LAP and secured MSME credit emerging as strategic priorities for Banks, HFCs, and NBFCs, Navanc’s AI-driven infrastructure has moved from a "value-add" to a core necessity for institutional growth.

Navanc provides explainable credit underwriting AI infrastructure designed specifically for Home Loans, Secured Working Capital, and Loan Against Property (LAP). By digitizing and standardizing property diligence, Navanc enables faster, compliant loan origination, automated revaluation, and real-time portfolio monitoring.

Leadership Perspective

“We are excited to partner with Navanc as they build the digital infrastructure layer for India’s secured lending ecosystem. With strong enterprise adoption and clear product-market fit, Navanc is well-positioned to become a category-defining property-credit intelligence platform. We look forward to supporting the team as they scale into a large and enduring financial infrastructure company,” Manish Goel, Founder, Equentis

“The investment from Equentis has come in at the dawn of Navanc’s exponential growth, with our ARR, and client size increasing by 150% and 283% respectively,” said Nagachethan SM, Co-founder and CEO of Navanc. “This additional capital allows us to double down on our vision of building an intelligent, self-improving ecosystem that financial institutions can trust as their foundational risk layer.”

Byom Kesh Jha, Co-founder and CT&DO, added, “Property-based lending requires more than digitization—it demands deep domain intelligence and a strong foundational assessment AI stack. At Navanc, we are building across multiple layers of property assessment, with live use cases already reducing human dependency by 80–90% and turnaround times from days to hours. This funding is a significant milestone for us, enabling stronger R&D and deeper domain capabilities. It will help us move closer to building a scalable, pan-India property intelligence stack.”

Expanding Footprint

Navanc currently operates as a B2B platform, serving over 35+ institutional customers, including Small Finance Banks (SFBs), NBFCs, and HFCs. The newly raised capital will be deployed to:

• Accelerate Product Development: Enhancing the AI-first architecture for deeper property risk insights.

• Market Penetration: Scaling operations to meet the surging demand across the secured credit ecosystem.

• Team Expansion: Hiring top-tier talent across all departments.

About Navanc

Navanc is India’s first AI-native banking infrastructure company, dedicated to transforming how financial institutions understand and manage property-led risk. By bridging the gap between physical collateral and digital underwriting, Navanc is setting the default standard for secured lending in the "Decisive Decade" of Indian fintech.

Sameer Paddalwar, CEO of Boston Financial Advisory Group’s global operations

Founded in 2009, BFAG has emerged as a one-stop solution for organizations seeking integrated financial services and advisory support. Headquartered in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, and supported by offices and teams in key markets including India, BFAG has built a reputation for innovation, reliability, and deep industry expertise.

“At BFAG, our vision is centered on enabling organizations — from high-growth startups to established enterprises — to navigate complex financial landscapes with confidence,” said Sameer Paddalwar, CEO of Boston Financial Advisory Group’s global operations. “Our expansion reflects the growing demand for high-quality, technology-enabled financial outsourcing and strategic advisory services that help companies succeed in today’s competitive global markets.”

Comprehensive Financial Services Tailored for Global Markets

Boston Financial Advisory Group offers a broad suite of services designed to address the full spectrum of organizational financial needs, including:

• Managed Accounting & Bookkeeping: Full-cycle accounting support, including daily data management, reconciliation, and financial reporting.

• Financial Consulting & Advisory: Customized advisory services for corporate finance planning, fundraising support, mergers & acquisitions guidance, and business structuring.

• Taxation & Compliance: Comprehensive tax planning, preparation, and compliance services aligned with global regulatory frameworks.

• Outsourcing Solutions: End-to-end financial outsourcing offerings that streamline operations, reduce overheads, and improve accuracy.

• Technology-Driven Platforms: Personalized dashboards and automation tools that provide real-time insights for informed decision-making.

BFAG leverages a combination of seasoned finance professionals — including CPAs, CAs, CFOs, and legal consultants — alongside advanced technological tools to deliver solutions that are both efficient and strategic.

Global Footprint and Industry Expertise

With a multi-continental presence, Boston Financial Advisory Group serves clients across diverse sectors such as manufacturing, technology, trading, services, and startups. This global outreach allows BFAG to offer localized insights within international regulatory frameworks while helping clients manage financial operations at scale.

The firm’s holistic approach integrates strategic planning with operational excellence, enabling clients to focus on core business growth while BFAG manages complex financial functions with precision and reliability.

Innovation and Client-Centric Delivery

BFAG’s commitment to innovation has led to the development of advanced compliance and analytics solutions that drive deeper business insights. By combining domain expertise with digital efficiency, the firm ensures that clients benefit from accurate reporting, streamlined processes, and proactive financial guidance — all essential in the modern business environment.

“Our philosophy is to understand each client’s business at a fundamental level and then design tailored solutions that align with their strategic objectives,” added Paddalwar. “Whether a company seeks operational support, financial optimization, or advisory leadership, BFAG strives to be a trusted partner at every stage.”

Commitment to Talent and Organizational Excellence

BFAG also continues to invest in its diverse talent pool, fostering a collaborative culture that encourages learning and professional growth. With teams of experienced professionals working across finance, accounting, compliance, and advisory functions, the company ensures consistent delivery of high-quality services for its global clients.

About Boston Financial Advisory Group

Boston Financial Advisory Group (BFAG) is a global financial services firm providing comprehensive managed accounting, consulting, taxation, and advisory solutions to businesses worldwide. Founded in 2009, BFAG combines deep industry expertise, advanced technology, and strategic insight to support organizations in achieving financial clarity, operational efficiency, and long-term success. Headquartered in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, with teams across multiple continents, BFAG is a trusted partner for companies seeking best-in-class financial services.

For more information, visit www.bostonfagroup.com. 

Mr. Tapan Ghosh (left), CEO of VinFast India, and Mr. Narendra Dixit, Head of Retail Banking at CSB Bank, at the signing ceremony

Under the partnership, customers will benefit from a range of retail financing solutions, including up to 100% on-road funding, attractive interest rates, flexible repayment options, and a seamless loan approval and disbursement process across VinFast’s entire product portfolio. Dedicated CSB Bank relationship managers will also provide on-site support at dealerships, ensuring a smooth and convenient financing experience and making EV ownership more accessible for customers.

The collaboration will also enable VinFast to leverage CSB Bank’s strong pan-India presence and expanding branch network to extend EV financing solutions across diverse markets. With its growing national footprint and focus on offering customized financial solutions, CSB Bank aims to support the wider adoption of electric mobility by enabling easier access to financing for customers across the country.

The MOU was signed by Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, along with Mr. Narendra Dixit, Head Retail Banking at CSB Bank.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, said, “Our partnership with CSB Bank is a natural extension of our approach in India, where accessibility and affordability are critical to scaling EV adoption. In markets like India, the transition to electric mobility depends not only on the product, but also on how simple and practical ownership is for customers. Through this collaboration, we aim to offer flexible financing solutions that reduce entry barriers, while continuing to build a reliable and well-rounded ecosystem. It is one of several steps we are taking to ensure a consistent, dependable, and customer-focused EV experience in the country.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Narendra Dixit, Head Retail Banking, CSB Bank, said, “Electric mobility is no longer a future concept; it is rapidly becoming a mainstream choice for customers and businesses alike. As adoption accelerates, there is a growing need for accessible financing solutions that enable both customers and dealers to participate in this transformation. The Special partnership with VinFast is a step forward in that direction. By combining VinFast’s strong product vision in the EV space with CSB Bank’s financing capabilities, we aim to create a robust ecosystem that supports both retail auto buyer solutions and dealer network through tailored auto loans and inventory financing solutions.”

VinFast continues to strengthen its comprehensive EV ecosystem in the Indian market, with an assembly plant in Tamil Nadu, a nationwide network of world-class showrooms, expected to double this year, an expanding after-sales service system, and growing partnerships with financial institutions to enhance EV accessibility for customers.

The company has introduced two premium electric SUVs, VF 6 and VF 7, both of which have achieved 5-star Bharat NCAP safety ratings, and plans to launch additional models in 2026 to meet the diverse green mobility needs of consumers.

In parallel, VinFast is rolling out a range of initiatives aimed at reducing financial and psychological barriers for customers, including the assured resale value program and transparent buyback schemes. Recently, the company extended its free charging program across the V-Green charging network until March 31, 2029. The “Trade Gas for Electric” program is also being implemented in India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines from March 11 to March 31, 2026, offering additional incentives of 3% for VinFast electric cars and 5% for VinFast electric two-wheelers for customers switching from gasoline-powered vehicles.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making electric mobility more accessible to everyone. VinFast’s current product portfolio includes a wide range of electric SUVs, electric motorcycles, electric bicycles, and electric buses.

VinFast is entering its next phase of growth by rapidly expanding its global distribution and dealer network while strengthening manufacturing capabilities, with a focus on key markets in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Learn more at: www.vinfastauto.in.

About CSB Bank Limited

CSB BANK is one of the oldest private sector banks in India with an existence of over 100 years. Bank has a strong base in Kerala along with significant presence in Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. CSB Bank offers a wide range of products and services to customers, with particular focus on SME, Retail, and NRI customers. CSB Bank delivers its services through multiple channels, including 855 branches and 826 ATMs/CRMs across the country, as well as alternate digital channels such as debit cards, internet banking, mobile banking, point-of-sale services, and UPI. CSB Bank is listed on both NSE and BSE.

Learn more at: www.csb.bank.in.

Alkami Technology marked a key milestone in its global expansion with the launch of its India GCC, in partnership with Summit (an ANSR company)

“Alkami was very intentional in selecting the National Capital Region for our technology hub in India,” said Alex Shootman, Chief Executive officer at Alkami. “Its location offers a remarkable concentration of bank and fintech engineering skill, technical depth, and operational talent befitting to accelerate innovation and development across the Alkami Digital Sales & Service Platform. By investing in this region, we are strengthening our ability to move faster, scale thoughtfully, and deliver the technology that financial institutions need to compete and grow.”

The India hub will support platform engineering, data intelligence and cloud architecture with security at every layer for Alkami’s Digital Sales & Service Platform (DSSP), which powers digital banking experiences for more than 300 financial institutions and 22 million users across its ecosystem. Alkami is one of the fastest growing financial technology partners in the United States as the DSSP becomes the first to market in this category.

“I’ve seen firsthand the impact a global technology organization can have on accelerating growth and executing on the product roadmap,” said Deep Varma, Chief Technology Officer at Alkami. “The depth of engineering talent and the strength of the technical ecosystem in this region of India will help us scale our platform, advance our AI-driven capabilities, and deliver secure, reliable banking experiences for our customers.”

Consumer expectations continue to rise. Research shows that 46% of digital banking users wish their primary financial provider anticipated their financial needs more effectively, while half say they would switch providers for a significantly better digital experience. Alkami’s Platform is designed to help financial institutions move toward Anticipatory Banking — a forward-thinking vision that uses behavioral data, artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure to anticipate account holders’ needs before they are communicated to deliver proactive, supercharged personalized financial experiences.

“The work of skilled engineers will seal the connection between product strategy and technical execution,” said Manoj Kumar, Vice President of data engineering and country lead, India at Alkami. “By growing our engineering footprint in a market with deep expertise, we are better positioned to accelerate development across the Alkami Digital Sales & Service Platform and deliver capabilities that are performant, scalable, and aligned to the needs of financial institutions.”

To scale its India operations, Alkami leveraged the capabilities of Summit Consulting, an ANSR partner company, to design, build, and operationalize its Global Capability Center.

About Alkami 

Alkami provides a digital sales and service platform for U.S. banks and credit unions. Our unified Platform integrates onboarding, digital banking, and data and marketing—each solution can stand alone, but together they deliver more—to help institutions onboard, engage, and grow relationships. As the future shifts toward Anticipatory Banking, we help data-informed bankers meet the moment with technology that drives action.

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd., one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in the country, has become a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. This milestone marks a significant step in the Company’s journey to advance its sustainability agenda by integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its core business strategy and operations. 

This milestone advances LTF’s sustainability agenda by integrating ESG principles into its core strategy and operations

By joining the UNGC, LTF aligned itself with a global network of thousands of companies committed to taking responsible business action to pave the way for a sustainable world. This announcement serves to publicly reaffirm LTF’s existing ethical practices and align its long-term strategy with the UNGC’s Principles on human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption while reinforcing commitment to ethical and responsible business practices, sustainable development goals, and long-term value creation.

Ms. Apurva Rathod, Company Secretary and Chief Sustainability Officer at LTF, said, “Becoming a signatory to the UNGC is a significant milestone in our sustainability journey. It reinforces our commitment to embedding globally recognised principles into our business strategy, strengthening our responsible financing practices and creating value for our stakeholders. This alignment strengthens LTF’s progress toward its Lakshya goals, embedding sustainability and responsible business practices at the core of its strategy.”

As part of its participation in the UNGC, LTF will report annually on its progress in implementing the ‘Ten Principles of the Global Compact.’ These disclosures will be made through the Company’s annual reporting, ensuring transparency and accountability in its sustainability journey.

LTF has been at the forefront of advancing sustainable practices in the NBFC sector, being among the first to undertake voluntary assurance for ESG disclosures, conducting a comprehensive Business Impact study based on True Value methodology, and adopting a Double Materiality approach aligned with evolving global expectations. LTF is also a signatory to the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), reinforcing its commitment to measuring and managing financed emissions. These initiatives reflect LTF’s proactive approach to embedding ESG considerations into its strategy, management, and decision-making processes.

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF)
L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) (www.LTFINANCE.com), formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd. (LTFH), is a leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), offering a range of financial products and services. Headquartered in Mumbai, the Company has been rated ‘AAA’—the highest credit rating—by four leading domestic rating agencies.  In August 2025, S&P Global Ratings upgraded LTF’s long-term Issuer Credit Rating to “BBB/Stable” from “BBB-/Positive” and short-term issuer credit rating to “A-2” from “A-3.” Fitch Ratings has assigned LTF Long-Term Foreign and Local-Currency Issuer Default Ratings of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook.  It has also received leadership scores and ratings by global and national Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating providers for its sustainability performance. The Company has been certified as a Great Place To Work® and has also won many prestigious awards for its flagship CSR project—Digital Sakhi—which focuses on women's empowerment and digital and financial inclusion. Under Right to Win, being in the ‘right businesses’ has helped the Company become one of the leading financiers in key Retail products. The Company is focused on creating a top-class, digitally enabled, Retail finance company as part of the Lakshya 2026 plan. The goal is to move the emphasis from product focus to customer focus and establish a robust Retail portfolio with quality assets, thus creating a Fintech@Scale while keeping ESG at the core. Fintech@Scale is one of the pillars of the Company’s strategic roadmap—Lakshya 2026. The Company has over a 2.8 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.
 

About the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC)
The United Nations Global Compact is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, with over 20,000 participants across more than 160 countries. It calls on companies to align their strategies and operations with Ten Principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption, and to take actions that advance broader societal goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
 

X: x.com/LnTFinance

Facebook: www.facebook.com/LnTFS

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/lntfinance

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lntfinance

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ltfinance

SBI Securities Introduces ‘Women’s Mode’ on App
 

The launch is part of Infinity8, a vision by SBI Securities, aimed at fostering sustained engagement with women investors and strengthening and smoothening financial participation through thoughtful platforms and solutions.
 

Women across India are increasingly taking an active role in financial planning and investment decisions, reflecting a broader shift towards greater financial independence and long-term wealth creation. As this participation grows, the need for financial platforms that are simple, relatable and confidence-building becomes even more important.
 

The Women’s Mode has been developed with this perspective in mind. The feature offers curated goal-oriented journeys, special brokerage plan and simplified tools intended to help women navigate their investment decisions with greater clarity and confidence.
 

Ms. Bhuvaneshwari A., Managing Director & CEO, SBI Securities, said, “Women today are playing a far more active role in financial decision-making and long-term wealth creation. As participation expands, it becomes equally important for institutions to create platforms that make investing more approachable and relevant to their goals. With the Women’s Mode and the Infinity8 initiative, our objective is to move beyond symbolic recognition and focus on sustained efforts that support women in building financial confidence and independence.”
 

Infinity8 reflects SBI Securities’ belief that empowering women financially requires consistent effort and thoughtful innovation. Through such initiatives, the company aims to create an investing ecosystem that is more inclusive, accessible, and aligned with the evolving aspirations of women across India.
 

About SBICAP Securities Limited
SBICAP Securities Limited is a full-service stockbroker in India, offering a wide range of investment solutions including equity trading, derivatives and mutual funds. As a group company of the State Bank of India, the country’s largest public-sector bank, SBICAP Securities is committed to providing financial market access to everyone, built on a foundation of trust, innovation and resources that support clients throughout their investment journeys.

For more information, visit www.sbisecurities.in.

Registered & Corporate Office: SBICAP Securities Limited

Marathon Futurex, Unit No. 1201, B-Wing, 12th Floor, N M Joshi Marg, Mafatlal Mill Compound, Lower Parel East, Mumbai 400013. Corporate Identity Number (CIN): U65999MH2005PLC155485| www.sbisecurities.in | NSE, BSE, MCX-SX & MCX | SEBI Registration No.: Stock Broker: INZ000200032 | DP Registration No.: IN-DP-314-2017 | Research Analyst : INH000000602 | IRDA : CA0103 | AMFI ARN No. 0011
 

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• Serving over 13 million customers with a distribution footprint covering over 18,600  of India’s PIN codes (as of March 31, 2025)

• Reflects the company’s focus on leveraging technology and AI integration alongside organisational capability and talent development

As artificial intelligence and advanced analytics reshape credit decisioning across India’s lending ecosystem, financial institutions are now increasingly combining advanced analytics with organisational capability to deliver faster credit access and scalable growth.

Reflecting this shift, Hero FinCorp Limited, an Indian Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), has received two industry recognitions for its tech-led lending architecture and organisational practices.

The company has been awarded Best Digital Strategy Delivering Business Value (MSME Lending) at the 3rd Annual NBFC & Fintech Excellence Awards 2026, held in Mumbai. In addition, Hero FinCorp also received recognition for Significant Achievement in HR Excellence at the 16th CII National HR Excellence Awards 2026.

Introducing Project Dhruv Tara
At the core of Hero FinCorp’s digital lending evolution is Project Dhruv Tara, the company’s AI-led lending architecture designed with the aim to strengthen credit decisioning, reduce cyclical exposure and improve portfolio predictability.

Drawing on a combination of diverse datasets, and advanced analytics, Project Dhruv Tara enables the company to evaluate credit opportunities more holistically and identify higher quality borrowers on a segment-level.

By strengthening decision intelligence across the credit lifecycle, the initiative supports Hero FinCorp in building a more predictable and resilient loan portfolio, with the aim to enable  faster and more seamless credit access for customers.

AI-Led Decision Intelligence
Hero FinCorp’s technology architecture integrates underwriting intelligence, advanced analytics, and data-driven customer insights with the aim to strengthen credit governance and improve decision accuracy.

These capabilities allow the company to better understand borrower behaviour, evaluate risk across multiple dimensions, and tailor credit offerings in a disciplined and scalable manner.

This technology-led approach also enables faster loan assessments, streamlined onboarding, and improved operational efficiency, delivering a smoother borrowing experience for customers.

With over 13 million customers and a distribution footprint spanning over 18,600 of India’s PIN codes (as of March 31, 2026), Hero FinCorp is leveraging technology and AI integration with an aim to enable scalable credit deployment across urban, semi-urban, and emerging MSME clusters.

Building Organisational Capability
Alongside its investments in tech-led AI-based models, Hero FinCorp continues to work towards strengthening organisational capability through structured talent management and leadership development initiatives.

The recognition at the CII National HR Excellence Awards 2026 reflects the company’s focus on human potential initiatives that support its evolving technology-enabled operating model.

Commenting on the recognition, Ms. Priya Kashyap, Chief Operating Officer & Chief of Staff, Hero FinCorp, said: “At Hero FinCorp, we see data intelligence and advanced analytics as a key strategy towards building a resilient and responsible lending institution. Project Dhruv Tara represents an important step in this journey, enabling us to combine diverse data signals with technology-led decisioning to strengthen credit quality and improve the speed of credit delivery. Equally important is building the organisational capability required to sustain this transformation. The recognition for HR excellence reflects our continued focus on developing and retaining top talent that can support long-term growth in an evolving financial services landscape.”

These recognitions underscore Hero FinCorp’s ongoing efforts to strengthen both its lending intelligence and human potential as the financial services sector increasingly adopts data-driven operating models.

Project Dhruv Tara serves as a strategic anchor for Hero FinCorp’s AI-led lending journey, guiding the company’s efforts to deliver responsible credit access.

About Hero FinCorp
Hero FinCorp is an Indian Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) offering a diversified portfolio of lending solutions across Retail, MSME, and Corporate segments. Its product suite includes two-wheeler, car, home, and personal loans, along with business, SME, and corporate financing.

The company has built an extensive national presence covering 18,600+ of India’s PIN codes, supported by a network of 4,200+ touchpoints. This wide distribution net enables Hero FinCorp to deliver financing solutions across 2,000+ cities, towns, and villages across India.

Having served over 13 million customers, Hero FinCorp operates on an AI-led architecture that integrates underwriting, analytics, and marketing capabilities across the credit lifecycle. This technology backbone enables faster underwriting, lean operating model, and credit delivery at scale.

As part of the Hero Group, Hero FinCorp draws on a legacy of trust, integrity, and long-term institution-building envisioned by the Hero Group’s Founder, Dr. Brijmohan Lall Munjal, while advancing responsible lending and building a future-ready financial services platform.

(All data as of March 31, 2025)

Axis Max Life and Saarathi Finance Announce Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Financial Security for India’s MSMEs
 

By leveraging Saarathi’s last-mile reach, this partnership will provide Axis Max Life’s insurance product - Group Credit Life Secure (GCLS) (UIN: 104N072V04), to safeguard the interests of micro and nano-entrepreneurs. This product will act as a "security shield," ensuring that in the event of an unfortunate incident, the debt burden does not fall on the family or the business.

Sumit Madan, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Axis Max Life, said, “Our partnership with Saarathi Finance is a step toward securing the entrepreneurial heart of India. By combining Saarathi Finance’s seamless digital-first lending with Axis Max Life’s consistent industry-leading claims settlement, we are bridging the MSME credit gap with a safety net that makes protection an accessible reality for thousands of entrepreneurs. This partnership strengthens our commitment to fueling growth in India’s vibrant local markets by merging technological innovation with a deep-rooted understanding of small business dynamics. By integrating simple, relevant protection directly into the digital credit journey, we are ensuring that for every MSME, financial progress remains resilient, safeguarding the livelihoods of those who power our economy."

Vivek Bansal, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Saarathi Finance, said, “In India, over 90% of MSMEs operate with thin capital buffers, and a single disruption can wipe out years of effort. Saarathi Finance is providing the right credit solutions to support the growth of these MSMEs. The partnership with Axis Max Life acts as an enabler by providing protection through embedded insurance into lending that helps turn loans into long-term security frameworks and remove uncertainties. With this, the businesses can focus on growth instead of worrying about what might go wrong.” 

This partnership also marks a significant milestone toward the national vision of "Insurance for All by 2047," driving financial inclusion for MSMEs across Tier 3 and Tier 4 towns of India. By combining Axis Max Life’s protection expertise with Saarathi’s focus on the "Bottom of the Pyramid," the partnership addresses the critical insurance gap. Through a commitment to long‑term value instead of short‑term lending, both entities intend to position financial protection as an essential enabler for India’s rising entrepreneurs.

About Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (www.axismaxlife.com)

Axis Max Life Insurance Limited, formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Ltd., is a Joint Venture between Max Financial Services Limited (“MFSL”) and Axis Bank Limited. Axis Max Life offers comprehensive protection and long-term savings life insurance solutions through its multi-channel distribution, including agency and third-party distribution partners. It has built its operations over two decades through a need-based sales process, a customer-centric approach to engagement and service delivery and trained human capital. As per annual audited financials for FY2024-25, Axis Max Life has achieved a gross written premium of INR 33,223 Cr.

IRDAI Registration. No – 104

Company Information Number - U74899PB2000PLC045626

About Saarathi Finance

Saarathi Finance & Credit Pvt Ltd. is an NBFC focused on providing accessible and tailored credit solutions to MSMEs across semi-urban and rural India. With a mission to bridge the ₹44 lakh crores credit gap in the MSME sector, Saarathi combines technological innovation with a deep understanding of local markets to offer loans that meet the unique needs of small business owners. With a rapidly growing footprint of 60+ branches across 6 states, Saarathi Finance operates with the guiding principle: “Aap Akele Nahi Hai"- You are not alone.

For more information, visit www.saarathifinance.com.

On the occasion of Women’s Day, L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), (formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd.), one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in the country, is proud to announce the launch of Spoorthi, a specialised program designed to empower women entrepreneurs by facilitating finance for the purchase of house property or providing Loan Against Property (LAP) for business expansion and working capital.

 L&T Finance accelerating the rise of emerging women-led businesses

This initiative recognises the critical role women play in the economy and aims to support those who are solely or jointly running a business or profession. Under the Spoorthi program, LTF offers a range of specific relaxations and benefits, including extended loan tenors of up to 25 years for Home Loans and LAP for specific profiles. Furthermore, Industrial LAP tenors are offered for up to 12 years, and the program introduces enhanced eligibility norms such as higher debt-to-income ratios to provide greater financial flexibility.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Sudipta Roy, Managing Director & CEO, LTF, said, “Our Company is deeply committed to supporting women borrowers because they consistently demonstrate a disciplined and strong repayment history, which makes them ideal borrowers. By launching Spoorthi, the firm aims to harness this reliability while providing women with the necessary capital to scale their enterprises and secure their personal assets, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and robust financial ecosystem.”

The program is initially rolling out in major metropolitan hubs, including Mumbai MMR, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. To be eligible, the woman borrower must be a key person managing the business with at least a 50% stake in non-individual entities, and her income must constitute at least 50% of the total appraised income when clubbing with other borrowers. Additionally, the business must show an annual cash profit of at least Rs. 5 Lakhs as per the latest Income Tax Return (ITR) and must not have incurred a net loss in the last two years.

Mr. Jinesh Shah, Chief Executive – Urban Secured Assets & Third-Party Products, LTF, said, “Spoorthi is built upon a foundation of relaxed eligibility criteria and better pricing specifically tailored for women. The program offers lower interest rates to ensure that financial barriers are minimised. By reducing the business vintage (i.e., age of a company) requirement to just two years for loans up to Rs. 75 Lakhs, LTF is making it easier for emerging women-led businesses to access the high-value credit they need to thrive.”

In the third quarter ended December 31, 2025 (Q3FY26), LTF's Home Loan and LAP segment recorded disbursements of Rs. 2,879 Crore, reflecting a 16% Year-on-Year and 6% Quarter-on-Quarter increase. The total book size grew to Rs. 28,682 Crore, a rise of 22% Year-on-Year and 5% Quarter-on-Quarter, driven by robust distribution networks and new partnerships.

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF)

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) (www.LTFINANCE.com), formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd. (LTFH), is a leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), offering a range of financial products and services. Headquartered in Mumbai, the Company has been rated ‘AAA’—the highest credit rating—by four leading domestic rating agencies.  In August 2025, S&P Global Ratings upgraded LTF’s long-term Issuer Credit Rating to “BBB/Stable” from “BBB-/Positive” and short-term issuer credit rating to “A-2” from “A-3.” Fitch Ratings has assigned LTF Long-Term Foreign and Local-Currency Issuer Default Ratings of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook.  It has also received leadership scores and ratings by global and national Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating providers for its sustainability performance. The Company has been certified as a Great Place To Work® and has also won many prestigious awards for its flagship CSR project—Digital Sakhi—which focuses on women's empowerment and digital and financial inclusion. Under Right to Win, being in the ‘right businesses’ has helped the Company become one of the leading financiers in key Retail products. The Company is focused on creating a top-class, digitally enabled, Retail finance company as part of the Lakshya 2026 plan. The goal is to move the emphasis from product focus to customer focus and establish a robust Retail portfolio with quality assets, thus creating a Fintech@Scale while keeping ESG at the core. Fintech@Scale is one of the pillars of the Company’s strategic roadmap—Lakshya 2026. The Company has over a 2.8 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.

X: x.com/LnTFinance

Facebook: www.facebook.com/LnTFS

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/lntfinance

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lntfinance

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ltfinance

Chennai-based two-year old startup Fintastics is rapidly gaining traction in India’s personal finance tech space, tapping into the country’s rising demand for smarter digital money management solutions. At a time when financial discipline is becoming central to personal growth and long-term stability, the startup is positioning its platform as a financial life-changing innovation, a next-generation expense manager and budgeting app designed to help individuals and families seamlessly track income, control spending, and cultivate sustainable savings habits in an increasingly digital economy.

Fintastics 

Developed by Thinking Hats Tech Solutions Pvt Ltd, Fintastics integrates expense tracking, goal-based savings, AI-driven insights, and secure transaction monitoring into one unified platform, aiming to make financial clarity accessible to India’s digital-first generation.

According to Mouli Shankar, Founder of Thinking Hats Tech Solutions Pvt. Ltd., “Our mission is to transform the way people manage money. We believe financial clarity leads to financial confidence and that confidence changes lives. We envision Fintastics as a catalyst for stronger financial awareness, responsible money management and lasting abundance through transparent guidance, consistent and long-term support, across Indian households. Designed for the digital generation, the app offers a clean and intuitive interface that makes tracking income, expenses, and savings effortless for students, professionals, and families alike. With secure SMS-based transaction detection (enabled only with user permission) and strong security and encryption standards, we ensure both convenience and complete data protection. By helping individuals build disciplined money habits, reduce unnecessary expenses, and achieve long-term financial stability, we aim to contribute to a financially stronger India.”

“Currently available for Android and iOS users, Fintastics will continue to evolve with regular updates and AI-driven enhancements in the future.” he added.

Fintastics goes far beyond traditional expense tracking apps by offering a complete financial ecosystem tailored for modern lifestyles. The Features of the app include:

• AI Insights (Finney AI) – Personalized spending analysis and smart suggestions

• Smart Expense Tracking – Instantly record daily income and expenses

• Simple & Custom Budgets – Plan monthly or category-wise budgets

• Passbook View – Track all accounts in one unified dashboard

• Financial Goals – Set, monitor, and achieve savings targets

• Due & EMI Reminders – Never miss important payments

• Advanced Financial Reports – Clear analytics for better decisions

• Family Sharing Model – Transparent household budget monitoring

• Rewards & Achievements – Recognition for disciplined financial habits

Fintastics Introducing a New Business Model

Finbudy – The Face of Fintastics:
A nationwide network of district ambassadors promoting Fintastics services and financial awareness. Strengthening local presence and improving service reach across India.

www.earn100save10.club (Build Disciplined Financial Habits & Awareness)
A community-driven savings initiative focused on creating disciplined financial habits and encouraging consistent saving. Encouraging collective growth and long-term financial security.

Upcoming Innovations

Fintastics continues to evolve with powerful upcoming features designed to elevate personal financial management. According to Thinking Hats Tech Solutions Pvt Ltd, the next phase of innovation will introduce smarter collaboration and predictive intelligence for users.

Split Sharing – Easily split and track shared expenses among friends, roommates, or groups with clarity and transparency.

Advanced Family Sharing – Enhanced multi-member access with improved visibility for household financial monitoring.

Fin Astro – A unique projection model that analyses three months of financial data to forecast trends, spending patterns, and potential savings opportunities.

These upcoming enhancements are designed to deliver predictive financial intelligence and collaborative money management that will empower users with deeper insights and smarter control over their financial future.

Privacy-First & Secure by Design

Fintastics follows strict privacy and encryption standards to protect user data.

Disclaimer:
Fintastics does not connect to real-time banking systems and does not request or store users’ banking usernames or passwords. All financial data entered remains under the user’s control, ensuring complete transparency and security.

For Further information, please visit fintastics.ai or call +91 8892783333

At Thinking Hats Tech Solutions Pvt Ltd

The key drivers for these assigned ratings are the organisation’s specialised capabilities in the education financing space, adequate and timely capitalisation to grow the business, a proven track record of disciplined execution with steady growth, a diversified funding profile, and strong asset-quality performance. Avanse adopts a liability-first approach as a core component of its business strategy. The company has established a robust organisational framework and a high-quality product portfolio designed to proactively meet the expectations of credit rating agencies and liability partners. It maintains a disciplined focus on asset-liability management, ensuring the timely servicing of all financial obligations.

Commenting on this development, Amit Gainda, Managing Director & CEO, Avanse Financial Services, said, “It’s a proud moment for team Avanse to receive these ratings from one of India’s leading credit rating agencies. These ratings demonstrate our effective implementation of the Governance, Risk, Compliance & Controllership (GRCC) framework, our liability-first philosophy, and our disciplined approach to financial and risk management. This milestone reflects our focus on creating value through efficient capital management and responsible lending practices, reinforcing our position as a trusted financing partner in empowering students to achieve their academic goals and strengthening the education ecosystem of the country.” 

Avanse remains committed to investing in human capital, processes, and technology to build a future-ready organisation. By leveraging data-driven insights and a customer-centric approach, the company aims to simplify and enhance education and education infrastructure financing, enabling students and institutions to access opportunities with greater confidence and efficiency.

As Avanse enters its next phase of growth, it will continue to prioritise responsible lending, disciplined risk management, and prudent capital allocation, driving sustainable expansion while creating long-term value for all stakeholders.

About Avanse Financial Services
Avanse Financial Services Limited is an education-focused non-banking financial company (NBFC) on a mission to make education financing seamless and affordable for every deserving Indian student. The company offers loans across three key segments:

• Student Loan - International – customised education financing solutions for Indian students pursuing undergraduate & postgraduate courses overseas 

• Education Loans Domestic – customised financing solutions for Indian students seeking higher education at domestic institutions. It also includes loans for professionals engaging in executive learning programs, as well as financing for both curriculum fees for students enrolled in accredited schools and non-curriculum fees associated with skilling programs, executive education, and test preparation courses, all in India.

• Educational Institution Loans – collateral-backed financing solutions to private educational institutions, generally K-12 schools, located in peripheral areas of tier I cities and in tier II and beyond cities in India

For more information, please click here. 

Preliminary findings indicate that certain employees of the branch acted fraudulently in clearing forged instruments and payment instructions, potentially in collusion with external parties. The matter is currently under investigation by the relevant authorities.

Despite the investigation being ongoing, the Bank has immediately honored 100% of the principal and interest claimed by the relevant departments of the Government of Haryana, amounting to INR 583 crore. Final amount may change depending on any further claims or reconciliation.

The concerned departments of the Government of Haryana have thanked and appreciated the Bank’s principled approach, prompt action and professional conduct in addressing the matter.

IDFC FIRST Bank, with the full support of the Haryana Government and the law enforcement agencies is determined to fight the perpetrators of fraud and bring them to justice.

IDFC FIRST Bank is financially strong and well-capitalised. As of December 31, 2025, the Bank is rated AAA by CRISIL for Fixed Deposits and holds AA+ long-term ratings from CRISIL, ICRA, India Ratings and CARE. Its total customer business (loans and deposits) stands at INR 5,62,090 crore, up 22.6% year-on-year. Asset quality is healthy, with GNPA at 1.69% and Net NPA at 0.53%. The Bank’s capital adequacy ratio is 16.22%, and its CASA ratio is 51.6%.

The Bank’s unit economics are strong. Its Net Interest Margin is healthy at 5.76% in Q3FY26. The Bank is in an investment phase and investing in building products, technology, distribution, branches, ATM, Rural Banking, Corporate Banking, Cash Management, Trade, NRI, Credit Cards and other universal banking solutions to be a large, diversified Bank of the future. Over the next few years, we expect the operating leverage from these investments to reflect in the earnings and stronger profits from FY27 onwards. 

The Bank is built on a modern technology architecture and advanced digital infrastructure, which supports superior customer experience. Its mobile banking platform has been ranked No. 2 globally by Forrester, an internationally recognized research firm, and receives high customer ratings of 4.9 on Google and 4.8 on iOS.

About the Bank

• Vision: To build a world-class Bank in India, founded with principles of Ethical, Digital, and Social Good Banking. 

• Scale: IDFC FIRST Bank is one of India’s fast-growing private banks, building its UI, UX, and tech stack like a fintech. As of December 31, 2025, the Bank serves 35 million customers, with a customer business of Rs. 5,62,090 crore ($63.0b) comprising customer deposits of INR 2,82,662 crores ($31.7b) and loans & advances of INR 2,79,428 crores ($31.3b). Customer deposits grew 24.3% YoY and loans 20.9% YoY. We reach over 60,000 cities, towns, and villages, operate through 1,066 branches.

• Scope: We are a universal Bank offering complete range of services, including Retail, MSME, Rural, Startups, Corporate Banking, Cash Management, Credit Cards, Wealth Management, Deposits, Government Banking, Working Capital, Trade Finance, and Treasury solutions. 

• Ethical Banking: We are committed to doing right even when customers are not watching. We have simplified descriptions, calculations, and legal jargon to avoid confusing customers.

• Digital Banking: The Bank's modern technology stack delivers high-quality services across all channels like mobile, branch, internet banking, call centers and relationship managers. Built on cloud-native, API-led, microservices architecture, supported with data, analytics, AI, and fine aesthetics, we strive to deliver fintech-grade experiences on banking platform.

• Social Good: We work for society. We have impacted over 40 million lives including 3.6 million women entrepreneurs. We have financed over 7.5 million lifestyle improvement loans (for laptops, washing machines, refrigerators etc. that enhance the quality of life of middle class), 2.5 lakh electric 2W and 3W vehicles, 7 lakh water, sanitation, and hygiene loans, 2 million livelihood (cattle) loans, and 300,000+ SMEs. On deposits, we provide access of premium investment research, which is usually reserved for the wealthy, even to those holding balances as low as INR 5,000. Our ESG scores are high and improving.

• Customer Friendly Banking: We make banking easy by having a customer first approach. We have waived fees on 36 essential savings account services which are commonly charged in the market, the first and only bank in India to do so. We create “pull” products that customers actively seek out.

• Governance: We adhere to regulatory guidelines in letter and spirit and actively work with regulators to make things better. We take pride in maintaining highest levels of corporate governance.

• Shareholders: We are building a well-diversified universal banking portfolio designed to deliver consistent ROE of 16%+.

• Employees: IDFC FIRST Bank is designed to be a happy place to work, with cutting-edge roles, meaningful growth opportunities, and a culture of meritocracy. Compensation is healthy, efforts are recognized, and employees experience the pride and excitement of creating a world-class Bank in India.

IIRIS Launches IntelliTracker
 

Commenting on the launch, Dr. Vikram Singh, Advisory Leader at IIRIS, Former DGP of Uttar Pradesh, and a National Security Expert, said, “Fraud cases often move through complex, multi-layered law enforcement processes that require disciplined tracking and coordination. Institutions need structured visibility into these movements to ensure accountability and regulatory confidence. IntelliTracker brings much-needed digitisation and monitoring discipline to this interface between banks and enforcement agencies.”
 

IntelliTracker envisions addressing the structural visibility gap by digitising case monitoring across the full lifecycle, from complaint registration to investigation tracking, court proceedings, and case closure. The platform aims to provide structured categorisation, continuous status tracking, and RBI-aligned documentation to support informed decision-making and regulatory compliance.

Mr Garry Singh, President, IIRIS, stated, “IntelliTracker is a masterpiece that will not only act as a great tool for monitoring and analysis, but also will aid higher efficacy in compliance and closure of cases; thus making business more robust.”

Banks today manage thousands of fraud complaints registered across multiple jurisdictions. Case updates are often fragmented across portals, departments, and physical follow-ups. Monitoring tends to be periodic rather than continuous, while regulatory reporting remains manual and reactive. The absence of a unified, current view increases operational strain and compliance exposure.

IntelliTracker addresses this gap through

• End-to-end lifecycle monitoring from complaint registration to closure readiness

• Structured case categorisation and prioritisation

• Continuous status validation across jurisdictions

• Digitised documentation and audit trails

• Role-based dashboards for operations, compliance, and leadership

• RBI FMR 1-4-aligned report generation with timeline awareness (7/15/30/90-day requirements)

IntelliTracker does not replace legal authority or enforcement processes. Instead, it enables structured monitoring, data-backed visibility, and reporting readiness, ensuring that final review remains fully under the bank’s control. The platform is now available for institutional deployment. The platform is designed to provide banks with a unified, real-time view of police-registered fraud cases while maintaining full institutional control over decision-making and enforcement actions.

Consumers on the Paisabazaar App can now complete routine payments conveniently at zero platform fee, with assured rewards on every transaction

With this launch, Paisabazaar aims to make transactions on its App a rewarding and frequent-use experience, by enabling consumers to manage regular financial tasks with ease and benefit from meaningful savings while doing so. Consumers can pay a wide range of bills seamlessly on the Paisabazaar App, including Prepaid Mobile Recharge, Postpaid Mobile bills, Credit Card dues, Loan Repayments, and utilities such as Electricity, DTH, LPG and Piped Gas.

Mobile Recharge alone is a large opportunity, with the total market estimated internally at more than Rs. 15,000 crore per month. It remains one of the most frequent and habit-forming consumer payment categories. By enabling a fast, reliable and rewarding recharge experience, Paisabazaar expects to attract a wider set of consumers across age groups, income segments and geographies, many of whom may begin their journey on the App through recharges and then discover its wider suite of credit, savings and investment offerings.
 

Santosh Agarwal, CEO, Paisabazaar, said, “We are building the Paisabazaar App to play a more active role as an everyday financial companion, beyond just credit. By enabling payments and recharges with zero fees and assured rewards, we are creating strong reasons for consumers to return to the App regularly. Greater frequency drives familiarity, long-term trust, and smarter financial decisions over time. Our focus is to make Paisabazaar a dependable companion for day-to-day money management.”

The addition of Mobile Recharge and Bill Payments builds on Paisabazaar’s decision to build a diverse product suite, beyond credit. Last year, it announced its foray into savings and investments with the introduction of Bonds and Fixed Deposits on its App.
 

With Bill Payments and Mobile Recharge Paisabazaar not only expects to significantly enhance stickiness of the App, but support its long-term vision of serving customers across their full financial lifecycle—from credit awareness and tracking to borrowing to saving, investing, and payments.

About Paisabazaar

Paisabazaar, a part of PB Fintech (listed since 2021), is India’s largest marketplace for consumer credit and free credit score. Over the last 11 years, Paisabazaar has earned the trust of over 55 million consumers. Paisabazaar has built 65+ partnerships withBanks, NBFCs, and fintechs to offer a broad range of credit products. Paisabazaar is ISO (27001:2013) and PCI DSS certified organisation, with industry-best controls, to safeguard the best interest of consumers.

Great Place to Work AU SFB Certification

The certification is based entirely on employee feedback. For FY26, AU SFB achieved a significant increase in the Trust Index Score, highlighting the strength of its culture and the deep sense of belonging, employees experience across the organisation. The Great Place to Work® Institute is a global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and leadership behaviours. 

Speaking on the milestone, Sanjay Agarwal, Founder, MD & CEO, AU Small Finance Bank, said, “At AU SFB, our people have always been the heart of our journey, from a single-branch NBFC in Rajasthan to becoming India’s largest Small Finance Bank now poised to transition into a universal bank. This sixth Great Place to Work® certification is more than an award; it validates our ‘Forever Banking’ promise that celebrates aspiration, rewards integrity, and enables every AUite to grow with purpose. When trust meets opportunity, excellence becomes a collective habit. Our journey and growth is a reflection of AUites who embody trust, innovation, ownership, and compassion.”

Over the years, AU SFB has made long-term investments to strengthen employee experience. These include a culture of execution excellence, a values-driven leadership framework, robust learning and development programmes, and a work environment that encourages innovation, inclusion, and career mobility. The Bank has also expanded its technology and digital ecosystem, now supported by a 1,100-member IT team and 200+ in-house developers focused on Digital, Data, and AI - creating future-ready roles and opportunities for employees.

Earning this recognition for six straight years reflects AU SFB’s sustained focus on building a purpose-led organisation where every voice is valued and every individual is empowered to grow.

About AU Small Finance Bank 
AU Small Finance Bank Limited is a Scheduled Commercial Bank and India’s largest Small Finance Bank by scale. Since becoming a bank in 2017, AU SFB has built a diversified retail banking model, offering services across deposits, loans, credit cards, investments, and insurance, supported by digital innovations like 24x7 video banking, AU 0101 app, and WhatsApp Banking. AU’s wide network of over 2,726 banking touchpoints across 21 States and 4 Union Territories enables service to more than 1.25+ crore customers, powered by a workforce of 59,800+ employees. 

For more details, visit: www.aubank.in | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Dr. Tanu Jain (Ex Civil Servant), Founder Tathastu ICS

The BBA BankReg Programme is conceptualized to bridge the widening gap between traditional professional education and competitive examination readiness. It integrates managerial education with specialized training for elite government examinations such as:

• Reserve Bank of India (RBI Grade B)

• National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD Grade A)

• Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India – Assistant Manager

• General Insurance Corporation of India – Assistant Manager

• Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO EO/AO)

• Public Sector Bank Probationary Officer (Bank PO) Examinations

• Other Banking & Regulatory Services Examinations

This programme is one of its kind in nature, aiming not only at private sector placements but also at securing Grade A and Grade B Government positions in India’s most prestigious financial and regulatory institutions.

Message from Dr. Tanu Jain

Founder, Tathastu ICS | Former Civil Servant | Motivational Speaker
"The BBA BankReg Programme is the need of the hour. For years, students have pursued professional degrees without a structured pathway to high-ranking government careers. At Tathastu ICS, we believe preparation must begin early and strategically."

"Banking and Regulatory institutions such as the Reserve Bank of India, NABARD, IRDAI, GIC, EPFO and Public Sector Banks offer some of the most respected and stable career opportunities in the country. These roles provide not just financial security, but national-level impact, policy exposure, and professional prestige."

"This programme empowers students to utilise their three undergraduate years effectively. Instead of facing uncertainty and competitive pressure after graduation, they prepare systematically from Day One. Our structured curriculum ensures mastery over quantitative aptitude, reasoning, English, finance, economics, current affairs, and interview personality development alongside their BBA subjects."

"Having mentored aspirants for India’s most elite Civil Services Examination, we have built a strong faculty bench that understands the art and science of cracking both written examinations and personal interviews. The BBA BankReg Programme brings that same excellence and discipline to the Banking and Regulatory domain."

Message from Rohit Jain

Chief Marketing Officer, Tathastu ICS
"There is a growing demand to make professional courses like BBA truly employable. Students today seek degrees that deliver outcomes - not just certificates. The BBA BankReg Programme has been designed to meet that demand."

"This integrated model ensures that students gain managerial acumen through their BBA degree while simultaneously preparing for top-tier Banking and Regulatory examinations. They graduate not only with a NAAC A+ degree but also with a competitive edge in national-level government examinations."

"The biggest advantage lies in time optimisation. These three undergraduate years are sufficient for comprehensive preparation, eliminating the need for gap years, additional coaching burdens, or post-graduation peer pressure. Students prepare in a focused academic ecosystem designed exclusively for their success."

"We are confident that this programme will redefine how professional education is aligned with government career aspirations in India."

Programme Highlights

• Integrated BBA + Banking & Regulatory Examination Preparation

• Focus on Grade A & Grade B Government Jobs

• Preparation for RBI, NABARD, IRDAI, GIC, EPFO, Bank PO & allied examinations

• Structured curriculum aligned with examination patterns

• Dedicated mentorship and interview guidance

• Strong faculty bench trained under the leadership of Dr. Tanu Jain

• Degree from NAAC A+ accredited University

• Holistic development: written exam + personality development

Career Opportunities After BBA BankReg

Graduates of this programme can appear for:

• RBI Grade B Officer

• NABARD Grade B Officer

• IRDAI Assistant Manager

• GIC Assistant Manager

• SBI PO / IBPS PO

• IBPS RRB Officer Scale I

• SBI CBO / PNB LBO

• ECGC PO

• EPFO APFC

• ESIC SSO

• FCI Manager

• IB ACIO

• Regulatory & Financial Sector Management Roles

• Private Banking & Corporate Financial Services Positions

The launch of the BBA BankReg Programme marks a significant step toward structured, early-stage preparation for India’s most prestigious financial and regulatory careers.

Admissions Open for Academic Session 2026–29

For admissions and further details:
Visit: www.tathastuics.com
Call: 9560300770

• Max Financial Services Limited reports 18% growth in consolidated revenue excluding investment income

• Axis Max Life continues outperforming private industry; Private market share increases by 53 bps to 9.8% 

• Individual Adjusted First Year Premium at ₹6,396 crores, grew 20% YoY

• Gross Written Premium: ₹25,195 crores, up 18% Year-on-Year (YoY)

• Measure of profitability – Value of New Business (VNB) at ₹1,633 crores with a YoY growth of 30% 

• New business margin improved to 23.6%; Total APE growth of 21% achieved

• Embedded Value at ₹28,110 crores, grew 16% with an Operating RoEV of 16.9%

• Individual New Business Sum Assured grew by 41% 

• Assets Under Management (AUM) at ₹1.93 lakh crores, up by 12% YoY

Bajaj Finserv Personal Loan

With rising financial requirements driven by changing lifestyles, emergency expenses, education needs, and travel plans, customers increasingly seek faster and more convenient funding options. Bajaj Finance addresses this demand by offering a seamless, digital loan journey that ensures quick approvals, minimal documentation, and quick disbursal, all through a secure and user-friendly interface.

Fast and convenient loan application process
The approval process is supported by advanced analytics and verification tools. These capabilities enable customers to apply for personal loan online and receive quick eligibility decisions, eliminating long processing delays.

By simplifying the borrowing experience, Bajaj Finance ensures that customers can manage urgent financial requirements without procedural hurdles or extended waiting periods.

Personal loan app for seamless access
Customers can access instant personal loan services through the personal loan app, which offers a smooth and integrated borrowing experience. The app allows users to explore personalised loan offers, check eligibility, submit applications, and manage repayments from a single digital platform.

Designed with simplicity and ease of navigation in mind, the app enables applicants to complete the entire loan process within minutes. The platform also provides access to EMI calculators, repayment schedules, and account management tools, ensuring transparency and convenience throughout the loan lifecycle.

Key features of Bajaj Finserv Personal Loans
Bajaj Finserv Personal Loans come with a range of customer-focused features that support affordability, flexibility, and ease of access:

• Loan amounts starting from Rs. 40,000 and extending up to Rs. 55 lakh, subject to eligibility

• Flexible repayment tenures ranging from 12 months to 96 months

• Competitive interest rates designed to suit diverse borrower profiles

• Minimal documentation requirements

• Quick disbursal directly to the customer’s registered bank account

These features enable individuals to apply for personal loan confidently, ensuring that financial support is both timely and convenient.

Designed to address diverse financial needs
The instant personal loan offering is structured to cater to a broad spectrum of financial requirements. Customers can use the funds for medical treatments, higher education, wedding planning, travel expenses, home renovation, lifestyle upgrades, or debt consolidation.

By offering flexible loan amounts and repayment options, Bajaj Finance allows customers to select EMI plans that align with their income flow and financial goals. This approach encourages responsible borrowing while providing the flexibility needed to manage both planned and unexpected expenses effectively.

Simple process to apply for personal loan online
The digital process to apply for personal loan through Bajaj Finance is designed to be straightforward and efficient:

• To get started, the applicant can visit the Personal Loan page on the Bajaj Finserv website and click on ‘APPLY’.

• They will need to enter their 10-digit mobile number and verify it using the OTP sent to their phone.

• Next, they can fill in the application form with basic details related to their loan requirement.

• After that, they can click on ‘PROCEED’ to move to the loan selection page.

• Here, they can enter the loan amount they need and choose from the available personal loan variants.

• They can then select a comfortable repayment tenure, ranging from 12 months to 96 months, and click on ‘PROCEED’.

• Finally, they need to complete the KYC process and submit the application online.

This streamlined journey eliminates the need for branch visits, lengthy documentation, or complex procedures, offering a hassle-free borrowing experience.

Enabling financial planning and stability
Instant personal loans also support better financial planning by providing predictable repayment schedules and flexible tenures. Customers can structure their EMIs to align with monthly budgets, helping them maintain financial discipline while meeting personal and professional goals.

By offering quick access to credit combined with flexible repayment options, Bajaj Finance helps individuals manage short-term cash flow gaps and long-term financial commitments with greater confidence.

*Terms and conditions apply

About Bajaj Finance Limited
Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings.

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), (formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd.), one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in the country, today announced a major milestone in its retail strategy by doubling its Gold Loan branch network to over 260 branches nationwide. This rapid expansion was marked by the launch of its 130th new branch earlier this month since the acquisition of the gold loan business in June 2025. By matching its acquired portfolio with over 130 new branches in under a year, LTF has signalled a high-velocity play in India’s secured credit landscape.

Visit our website to avail of the L&T Finance Gold Loan

By scaling operations across the North, West, East, and South regions, LTF is pursuing geo-expansion to capture increasing demand for secured credit. LTF’s Gold Loan business has expanded its footprint to 18 States and Union Territories, marking its strategic entry into Assam, Karnataka, Telangana, Maharashtra, Odisha, West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan. By seamlessly integrating physical proximity with digital agility, LTF continues to redefine the gold loan experience through rapid turnaround times and flexible credit solutions.

Commenting on this development, Mr. Raju Dodti, Chief Operating Officer, LTF, said, “We are elated to share that we have successfully doubled the Company’s dedicated gold loan branch network in record time since our entry into this business, bringing the total count to over 260 branches nationwide, which will continue to increase given our aggressive branch expansion policy. Our rapid expansion is a testament to our 'Lakshya' strategy—transforming into a top-class, digitally-enabled, customer-centric retail powerhouse. By adding nearly 1 branch per day over the past few months, we aren't just increasing our footprint; we are building a robust ecosystem of security and trust. By scaling across the North, West, East, and South, LTF is de-risking its portfolio through geographic diversification while capturing high-growth retail demand. It is also underpinned by operational excellence, featuring state-of-the-art security systems and an experienced workforce specialised to deliver gold-standard customer service.”

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF)
L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) (www.LTFINANCE.com), formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd. (LTFH), is a leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), offering a range of financial products and services. Headquartered in Mumbai, the Company has been rated ‘AAA’—the highest credit rating—by four leading domestic rating agencies.  In August 2025, S&P Global Ratings upgraded LTF’s long-term Issuer Credit Rating to “BBB/Stable” from “BBB-/Positive” and short-term issuer credit rating to “A-2” from “A-3.” Fitch Ratings has assigned LTF Long-Term Foreign and Local-Currency Issuer Default Ratings of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook.  It has also received leadership scores and ratings by global and national Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating providers for its sustainability performance. The Company has been certified as a Great Place To Work® and has also won many prestigious awards for its flagship CSR project—Digital Sakhi—which focuses on women's empowerment and digital and financial inclusion. Under Right to Win, being in the ‘right businesses’ has helped the Company become one of the leading financiers in key Retail products. The Company is focused on creating a top-class, digitally enabled, Retail finance company as part of the Lakshya 2026 plan. The goal is to move the emphasis from product focus to customer focus and establish a robust Retail portfolio with quality assets, thus creating a Fintech@Scale while keeping ESG at the core. Fintech@Scale is one of the pillars of the Company’s strategic roadmap—Lakshya 2026. The Company has over a 2.8 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.

X: x.com/LnTFinance

Facebook: www.facebook.com/LnTFS

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/lntfinance

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lntfinance

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ltfinance

ABHFL makes first-time home ownership more accessible with PMAY
 

Through its PMAY-linked home loan offerings, ABHFL is facilitating affordable and accessible homeownership for eligible first-time homebuyers by providing repayment tenures of up to 30 years, funding of up to 90% of the property’s market value, flexible eligibility assessment frameworks, and minimal documentation, thereby streamlining the home-buying process and enhancing ease of access to housing finance.
 

Key Benefits

1. Loan amount: Up to Rs. 25 lakhs OR 90% of the property market value

2. Tenure flexibility: Up to 30 years, ensuring smaller EMIs.

3. Minimal documentation: Tailored for EWS, LIG & MIG

4. Interest Subsidy: Rs. 1.8 lakhs in 5 annual instalments

5. Doorstep service: Guidance and support at the customer’s convenience

6. Digital onboarding + Track My Loan: Seamless loan journey with transparency.

Eligibility

• Property Value: Up to ₹35 lakhs

• Carpet Area: Maximum 120 sq.mt (1291 Sq.ft)

• Ownership: Women must be owner/co-owner of the property
  ​

The scheme, applicable to only first-time home buyers clearly defines income-based beneficiary segments as follows:

• Economically Weaker Section (EWS): Annual household income up to Rs. 3 lakh

• Low Income Group (LIG): Annual household income between Rs. 3 lakh and Rs. 6 lakh

• Middle Income Group (MIG): Annual household income between Rs. 6 lakh and Rs. 9 lakh

Why it Matters?

India’s affordable housing momentum reflects a strong growth outlook, with GDP projected at 7.3% in FY26. This creates favourable conditions for first-time homeownership. As PMAY-U 2.0 advances India’s affordable housing agenda, ABHFL continues to expand formal housing finance. This supports the Government of India’s Housing for All mission and enables more households to move into organised homeownership.
 

To know more click on – Aditya Birla Housing Finance- PMAY 2.0

Aditya Birla Housing Finance, a subsidiary of Aditya Birla Capital, India’s leading diversified financial services provider, stands as one of the fastest-growing housing finance companies in the country. The company is backed by the highest level of creditworthiness, holding a long-term AAA (Stable) rating and a short-term A1+ rating from CRISIL, ICRA & India Ratings. As of September 30, 2025, Aditya Birla Housing Finance manages assets under management of over Rs. 38,270 Crore with a footprint of 167 pan-India branches.

Capri Global Capital Ltd. (Capri Loans), a leading non-banking financial company, has further strengthened its sustainability and governance profile, underscoring its long-term commitment to responsible growth, strong governance, disciplined risk management and transparency.
 

The Company has implemented focused, organisation-wide initiatives to embed ESG principles across governance oversight, risk controls, technology-led processes, responsible lending practices and enhanced disclosures.
 

ESG integration is embedded across Capri Global's lending portfolio. In the Gold Loan segment, credit enables small traders to manage cyclical cash flow needs and scale activity during peak festive periods or agricultural harvest cycles, supporting business continuity and local employment. In the MSME and Housing Finance segments, improved access to formal credit for entrepreneurs and households, contributes to better living standards and poverty alleviation. Through its Construction Finance vertical, the company supports the new construction and redevelopment of affordable residential communities, directly enhancing quality of life and enabling inclusive urban growth.
 

These efforts have translated into measurable and externally recognised outcomes. Capri Global recorded an S&P Global ESG score of 71, representing a 43% year-on-year improvement, alongside a ‘Low Risk’ ESG Risk classification with a score of 19.7, as assessed by Morningstar Sustainalytics. The Company also received a score of 64 (Strong) from ESGRisk.ai and a rating of 64 (Strong, Low Risk) from CRISIL, further validating the strength of its sustainability and governance framework.
 

Commenting on the achievement, Jinisha Sharma, Principal - ESG & Impact Investments, Capri Global Capital Ltd., said, “These outcomes reflect Capri Global’s consistent efforts to build a transparent, resilient, and responsibly governed institution. Our focus on strengthening governance frameworks, sharpening risk management practices, leveraging technology, and embedding sustainability across the organisation has been central to this progress. We believe this milestone reinforces stakeholder confidence and supports our long-term commitment to sustainable growth.”
 

A stronger ESG profile showcases resilient growth along with enabling deeper engagement with global lenders, institutional investors, and financial institutions, facilitating access to broader and diversified capital base.

About Capri Global Capital Ltd.
Capri Global Capital Limited (“Capri Loans”) is a well-diversified retail focused Non-Banking Financial Company listed on the BSE Limited and the NSE Limited. Capri Loans has AUM of over Rs. 30,000 crores and serves customer base of over 6.3 Lakhs through more than 13,000+ employees and 1,330+ branches as of December 31st, 2025 across pan India. Capri Loans offers a wide range of secured and collateralized loans across four primary lending segments - MSME Loans, Gold Loans, Construction Finance and Housing Loans offered through its 100% subsidiary, Capri Global Housing Finance Limited (“CGHFL”). Capri Loans also has fee-based businesses such as distribution of car loan products and has a composite license for distribution of Life, General and Health insurance policies.

Manipal Academy of BFSI (UNext Learning), India’s premier institution for financial services skilling, is proud to announce its continued collaboration with the Central Bank of India (CBI) to train a specialized batch of 1,000 credit officers. This intensive residency program, conducted at the Manipal Academy of BFSI campus, aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world banking expertise, ensuring new officers are ready to perform from their very first day on the job.

Manipal Academy of BFSI Partners with Central Bank of India to Empower 1,000 Future-Ready Credit Officers

As a premier institution with an 18-year legacy of training over two lakh professionals, Manipal Academy of BFSI has curated a high-impact learning journey for Central Bank of India, that aligns with the current demands of the Indian economy. The program features a mix of academic rigor and practical application through simulation-led classrooms, mock bank branches, and digital learning journeys.

The current cohort represents a diverse cross-section of India, with 1,000 learners hailing from 25 different states. The group includes a strong representation of both men and women, as well as visually challenged learners, reflecting a shared commitment by both institutions toward inclusive growth and national representation.

Kalyan Kumar, MD and CEO of Central Bank of India, added during his visit to the academy, "At Central Bank of India, our collaboration with Manipal Academy of BFSI (MABFSI) represents a transformative step in building the future of banking excellence. Under the guidance of expert faculty, these officers are being equipped with specialised skills in due diligence, credit approval, underwriting processes, and business communication, blending technical proficiency with vital soft skills to excel in customer interactions amid today's competitive landscape. This structured approach is vital for achieving our vision of sustainable growth and supporting India's journey toward becoming a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047".

Speaking about the partnership, Dr Soumyadip Roy, Associate Professor and Director in-charge of Manipal Academy of BFSI, stated: "At Manipal Academy of BFSI, we believe inbuilding a workforce that is ready to perform from the very first time they enter a branch. Two great institutions, Central Bank of India with its 114-year legacy and Manipal Group with its 80-year history in education have come together to empower these learners. Our curriculum is carefully curated to focus on the tech side of banking, from AI-driven risk assessment to digitized onboarding, ensuring these future bankers can balance technology with the high-trust nature of financial services."

The partnership between Manipal Academy of BFSI and Central Bank of India has spanned over 11 years, delivering nine structured programs to nearly 2,000 professionals to date. This

latest initiative focuses on deep proficiency in the credit job family, covering due diligence, credit underwriting, and risk management.

About MABFS

Manipal Academy of BFSI is a UNext Learning entity and part of the Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG). It is India's leading workforce development and professional education company, offering industry-relevant education for BFSI professionals.

Since 2008, Manipal Academy of BFSI has partnered with over 50 leading banks, insurance, and non-banking financial organizations and has trained over 2,00,000 professionals in the industry. As a result, more than one in five bankers in India is now our alumni.

India’s first platform to offer intelligence-led access to Specialized Investment Funds (SIFs)

With this launch, ET Money extends its long-standing mission of simplifying long-term investing by expanding beyond Mutual Funds. It reinforces their effort to offer access to more advanced, professionally managed investment strategies, while ensuring product suitability, decision clarity and investment confidence.

Why SIFs are for you

Specialized Investment Funds were introduced by SEBI to address a growing gap in the Indian investment landscape. It sits between traditional Mutual Funds and Portfolio Management Services (PMS).

As Indian investors mature, many seek strategies that go beyond simple equity or hybrid allocations. They want:

• Better downside management

• Consistent outcomes across market cycles

• Greater flexibility in deploying larger capital allocations

SIFs are designed with an aim to fill this gap by allowing fund managers to use advanced strategies, including derivatives, long-short positioning, and tactical hedging. All of this within the regulated, tax-efficient Mutual Fund structure.

The Intelligence Layer: Making SIFs Investable

While SIFs unlock powerful possibilities, they are also inherently more complex than traditional Mutual Funds. Funds within the same category can have very different objectives, risk profiles, and outcomes, making evaluation difficult for individual investors.

This is where ET Money’s intelligence-led approach comes in.

Rather than presenting SIFs as a list of products, ET Money decodes them based on their intended role in an investor’s portfolio:

• Stable, tax-efficient return strategies

• Consistent return strategies with controlled risk

• Equity-like growth with lower volatility

By translating technical fund structures into clear use cases and expected outcomes, ET Money enables investors to choose SIFs based on purpose, risk appetite, and investment horizon instead of jargon.

ET Money - A Home for SIF and Big Investments

For years, ET Money has been a preferred platform for long-term retail investing. With SIFs requiring a Rs. 10 lakh minimum investment, the platform now naturally extends into serving investors’ larger capital allocations.

“As our investors’ wealth grows, their needs evolve beyond traditional Mutual Funds,” said Mukesh Kalra, Founder & CEO, ET Money. “SIFs represent the next step for affluent Indian investors who want a better balance of returns and risk management. But access alone isn’t enough. What investors really need is clarity. By adding a strong intelligence layer on top of SIFs and decoding their purpose in one’s portfolio, we are helping investors deploy larger sums with confidence and precision. We’re not just offering a new product. We’re providing a clearer roadmap for long-term wealth.”

Flexible Access, Investor’s Choice

All SIFs available on ET Money can be accessed through the investor’s preferred engagement model. Investors may choose between:

• Advisory-based access

• Distribution-based access

This ensures flexibility, transparency, and alignment with individual preferences.

About ET Money
ET Money, a 360 ONE company, is India’s leading full-stack wealth platform, helping Indians invest with clarity and confidence.

It brings the most important, retail-friendly investment products together in one place. From mutual funds and SIFs to fixed deposits, bonds, insurance and pension solutions, ET Money curates investment-worthy choices and makes them accessible through seamless, paperless digital journeys.

The platform leverages technology and thoughtful design to enhance decision-making with research-driven insights, personalised recommendations and active portfolio supervision. Its suite of investment intelligence includes the ET Money Fund Report Card, Fund Verdicts, Portfolio Health Check and Multi-Asset Allocation Strategies.

ET Money envisions a future where every Indian investor gets unmatched support across every stage of their wealth-building journey — enabling disciplined, long-term investing with exceptional ease, clarity, and confidence.

Disclaimers

Investments in Specialized Investment Fund involve relatively higher risk, including potential loss of capital, liquidity risk and market volatility. Please read all investment strategy-related documents carefully before making the investment decision.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.

Banayantree Services Limited, ARN: 112749, AMFI Registered Mutual Fund Distributor & SIF Distributor, SEBI Registered Non-Individual Investment Advisers, RIA No. INA100006898, Validity January 09, 2017 – Perpetual, BSE Enlistment No. 2369, PFRDA Registered PoP Regn No: 283072019, IRDAI Corporate Agency (Composite) Registration No.- CA0680

Corporate Office: Times Internet Limited Ecstasy IT Park, Plot 391, Udyog Vihar, Phase 3, Gurgaon, Haryana-122016

Registered Address: Express Building, 9-10, Bahadurshah Zafar Marg, New Delhi –110002.

The comprehensive industry evaluation assessed leading technology providers across five critical performance dimensions: breadth and coverage of analytical solutions, market impact, computational infrastructure capabilities, strategic alignment, and innovation in analytical environments. Wibmo's ranking reflects the company's strong performance in delivering advanced security and analytics solutions that address critical challenges in retail banking.

"At Wibmo, we've always believed that the best solutions emerge from truly understanding our partners' challenges – whether that's enhancing trust, streamlining digital experiences, or strengthening security frameworks," said Shailesh Paul, CEO at Wibmo. "Being recognized amongst the global top-50 reinforces our commitment to building technology that enables our banking partners to grow and serve their customers better. As the industry embraces ever-increasing digitization and AI, we're excited to continue co-creating solutions that make complex payment ecosystems reliable and secure.”

The ranking evaluation encompassed multiple functional domains crucial to modern banking operations, including retail credit analytics, fraud and risk management systems, customer behaviour analytics, AI-driven decisioning platforms, and financial optimization tools. Wibmo's inclusion highlights the company's expertise in developing solutions that address the evolving needs of digital-first banking environments. Wibmo proudly collaborates with 200+ banks across 30+ countries.

Key areas where Wibmo demonstrated excellence include:

Advanced Analytics Infrastructure: Robust computational frameworks supporting machine learning and statistical modelling

Innovation in Banking Solutions: Development of next-generation analytical platforms that address complex challenges in payments security, banking operations, and intelligent decisioning

Strategic Market Positioning: Strong alignment between technological capabilities and market needs

Comprehensive Platform Coverage: Broad functionality addressing multiple aspects of payments and banking security, operations, and growth

The retail banking analytics sector represents a highly competitive and rapidly evolving market space, with increasing demand for sophisticated solutions that can handle real-time decision-making, fraud prevention, and customer personalization. Financial institutions are increasingly seeking partners who can provide integrated analytics platforms that combine multiple functional capabilities within unified technological ecosystems.

Wibmo's recognition comes at a time when retail banking institutions are prioritizing investments in advanced analytics to enhance customer experiences, optimize risk management, and improve operational efficiency. The company's solutions enable banks to leverage data-driven insights for credit decisions, fraud detection, customer acquisition strategies, and pricing optimization.

The ranking methodology employed rigorous evaluation criteria, with emphasis placed on vendors demonstrating broader platform capabilities, foundational innovation in analytics tools, sophisticated decisioning frameworks, and effective ecosystem integration strategies. Companies were scored based on their contributions to advancing the retail banking analytics industry and their ability to deliver comprehensive solutions addressing multiple banking functions.

About the Ranking

The Retail Banking Analytics 50 represents an authoritative assessment of solution providers serving the retail banking analytics market. The evaluation process considers factors including technological innovation, market impact, platform comprehensiveness, and strategic positioning within the evolving financial services landscape.

Read Report

About Wibmo | PayU

Wibmo, a PayU company, operates across entities in India, the US, and Indonesia. As a global full-stack PayTech company and an industry leader in payment security and digital payments in emerging markets, Wibmo stands out for its innovation and impact.

In addition to being India’s largest authentication service provider in one of the leading digital payment markets globally, Wibmo offers comprehensive fraud and risk management solutions, digital financial services, prepaid solutions, and a broad range of merchant-acquiring services.

slice UPI credit card
 

slice is building its banking ecosystem around this change. Designed as a UPI-first bank, slice integrates savings, credit, and investments into a single digital experience that mirrors how Indians already transact. Three offerings in particular reflect this approach, addressing long-standing gaps in value, access, and simplicity.

Savings account linked to 100% of the RBI repo rate

slice has introduced India’s first savings account linked to 100% of the RBI repo rate, ensuring customers earn returns aligned with the true cost of money in the economy. Interest is calculated and credited daily, allowing savings to grow in real time rather than through static, below-market rates.

The offering is enabled by slice’s digital-first operating model, which keeps costs low and deploys deposits through disciplined lending to generate a healthy spread over the risk-free rate. Customers benefit from transparent returns, no minimum balance requirements, instant liquidity, and full digital access from day one, including UPI for everyday transactions.

By aligning profitability with fairness, the product sets out a new benchmark for what consumers should expect from a modern savings account.
 

UPI credit card built for everyday payments

As UPI becomes the default payment mode across India, slice is extending credit to where users already transact. The slice UPI credit card allows customers to scan and pay at any UPI-enabled merchant while drawing directly from an approved credit limit, embedding credit into routine payments instead of restricting it to traditional card usage.
 

This shift matters because access to formal credit is still limited for a large part of the population. Banks play a critical role as stabilizing institutions, enabling consumers to build a credit history early in their financial journey. Regular, responsible credit usage helps individuals qualify over time for lower-cost loans such as home loans, education loans, or business credit. For millions, the absence of a simple entry point into formal credit delays these opportunities.
 

Check the NPCI podcast between Rajan Bajaj, Founder & ED, slice and Dilip Asbe, MD & CEO, NPCI
 

The card offers up to 3% cashback based on usage, features such as “slice in 3” for no-cost EMI conversion on purchases above Rs. 2,000, and weekly rewards through slice sparks. With no joining, renewal, or annual fees, and a fully digital experience, the slice UPI credit card lowers barriers to formal credit while aligning with existing payment behaviour.
 

Digital fixed deposits with high returns and regulatory protection

For users seeking predictable and secure returns, slice offers fully digital fixed deposits that combine traditional stability with app-based convenience. Customers can open, manage, and track deposits entirely online, choosing from multiple tenures based on their financial goals.

The fixed deposits offer interest rates of up to 7.25% per annum and are insured up to Rs. 5 lakh by the DICGC, providing an additional layer of regulatory protection. By pairing competitive returns with transparency and ease of access, slice is reimagining even conventional products for a digital-first audience.
 

As banking continues to evolve alongside India’s digital economy, slice’s integrated approach highlights a broader shift in consumer expectations. Platforms that simplify savings, spending, and wealth creation within a single ecosystem are increasingly shaping preference, signaling a new chapter in how Indians experience banking.

The largest convergence of India’s collections ecosystem—one platform, unmatched scale, decisive impact

Collections in India is at a turning point.

As regulations tighten, borrower expectations rise, and technology reshapes recovery models, the industry needs more than conversations—it needs clear direction and collective leadership.

That’s where the Bharat Collection Summit & Awards 2026 returns.

After two transformative editions, India’s most influential collections platform is back to set the agenda for responsible, compliant, and future-ready collections—bringing together the leaders who don’t just adapt to change, but drive it.

Power-Packed Keynotes & Thought Leadership

The Bharat Collection Summit & Awards 2026 features an elite lineup of India’s most influential financial leaders and fintech innovators, delivering insights that matter.

Keynote Speaker

Prashant Mehra

Group Head – Retail Portfolio Management & Fraud Control, HDFC Bank

Featured Industry Leaders

• Rakesh Sharma – Head of Collections, Fibe (formerly EarlySalary)

• Rajaram Manian – Chief Risk Officer, Tyger Capital (formerly Adani Capital)

• Sushant Kumar – Head, Collections & Resolutions, ICICI Home Finance Company Limited

• Vivek Katyayan – COO, Kissht

• Debashish Mohanty – SVP & Head, Collection Strategy, Kotak Mahindra Bank

• Sanju Mangrulkar – Head, Credit Monitoring & Policy, Central Bank of India

• Chandrasekhar Das – VP, Collection Strategy & Analytics, YES Bank

• Ananth Shroff - Founder & CEO ,DPDzero

• Abhishek Rao - Founder, Resollect

• Sonali Jindal - Founder, Rezolv

• Karan Mehta - Co-Founder, Rezolv

• …and many more leaders shaping the future of collections in India

Building the Future of Responsible Collections — Our Ecosystem Partners

Powered by trusted partners driving innovation and credibility:

• DPDzero – Presenting Partner

• Resollect – Co-Presenting Partner

• Rezolv – Gold Partner

• Credit Nirvana – Silver Partner

• Dista – Exhibit Partner

• Neowise (a Decentro company) – Exhibit Partner

• Wevaad – Exhibit Partner 

• FACE – SRO-FT Partner

• Bharat CXO, News Patrolling, Asia Business Outlook – Media Partners

What’s on the Agenda?

High-impact keynotes and expert-led panels will deep-dive into:

• AI & analytics-led transformation in collections

• Regulatory compliance, governance & risk frameworks

• Borrower experience, ethical recovery & trust-building

Every session is designed to deliver practical insights, real-world case studies, and actionable strategies for today’s fast-evolving collections environment.

**The Bharat Collection Summit & Awards 2026 isn’t just an event—

it’s where India’s collections industry sets its direction for the future.**

Date: 18 February 2026
Venue: The Lalit, Mumbai
Register Now: www.thebharatcollectionsummit.com.

L&T Finance Ltd., formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd. (LTF), one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in India, has recorded its highest ever core Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 760 Crore (before one-time impact of New Labour Code provision), up 21% YoY (Year-on-Year) in the third quarter ended December 31, 2025 (Q3FY26). PAT after one-time impact of New Labour Code stands at Rs. 739 Crore, up 18% in Q3FY26. During the quarter, the retail book size reached Rs. 1,11,990 Crore, up 21% YoY. The consolidated loan book grew by 20% YoY to Rs. 1,14,285 Crore. The Company has recorded the highest ever quarterly retail disbursement of Rs. 22,701 Crore for the third quarter ended December 31, 2025, up 49% YoY. The Company also recorded all-time high disbursements in Two-wheeler Finance at Rs. 3,217 Crore and Farmer Finance at Rs. 2,783 Crore growing 33% YoY and 12% YoY, respectively. Retailisation stood at 98% of overall book as on December 31, 2025.

LTF achieved highest ever Retail disbursements for Q3FY26 at Rs. 22,701 Crore, up 49% YoY

The Company’s Net Interest Margins (NIMs)+Fees sequentially improved by 19 basis points (bps) Quarter-on-Quarter (QoQ) to 10.41% from 10.22% in the second quarter ended September 30, 2025 (Q2FY26). The Rural Business Finance business asset quality improved significantly with 0 Days Past Due (DPD) collection efficiencies reaching 99.7% in December 2025.

The Company’s customer-facing PLANET app, which has emerged as a powerful digital channel for customers, crossed more than 2.20 Crore downloads as of December 31, 2025, comprising more than 18.3 Lakh customers on the rural side. As of December 31, 2025, this channel has done collections of over Rs. 7,700 Crore while servicing over 10 Crore requests and has sourced loans of over Rs. 24,100 Crore.

‘Project Cyclops’ has been implemented in Two-wheeler Finance, Farm Equipment Finance, SME Finance, and Personal Loans. It will be rolled out in Home Loans and Rural Group Loans & MFI in the next financial year. ‘Project Nostradamus’ – Proprietary AI portfolio management engine is live in Beta mode for Two-wheeler. ‘Project Helios’ - Underwriting AI Co-Pilot is live in SME Finance. ‘Project Orion’ - Nostradamus Co-Pilot AI Conversational Assistant for automated portfolio is live in Two-wheeler Finance from December 2025. RAISE’ 25, LTF’s flagship AI conference, which was conducted in November 2025, drew participation of over 4,500 attendees. It brought together global tech leaders, policymakers, innovators, and industry practitioners. On the sidelines of RAISE’ 25, LTF launched an AI startup pitch platform – ‘Pitch Point’, thereby incubating new tech AI entrepreneur ecosystem.

Commenting on the financial results, Mr. Sudipta Roy, Managing Director & CEO, LTF, said, “Q3FY26 for the financial services sector has been defined by a powerful convergence of favourable macro-tailwinds. The implementation of GST 2.0, good monsoons, and a series of repo rate cuts have seen a surge in consumption and created an environment for growth. In Q3FY26, LTF’s focus remained on delivering a standout performance across business segments. We registered the highest ever quarterly disbursements of Rs. 22,701 Crore, up 49% YoY, and the retail portfolio reaching Rs.1,11,990 Crore, reflecting a growth of 21% YoY leading to a PAT of Rs. 760 Crore, up 21% YoY (without the impact of a one-time exceptional item).

In line with our commitment to deliver a sustainable and profitable growth across quarters, we are focused on transforming LTF into a risk-first, tech-first, multi-product retail financier of choice. In line with this, we have been continuously broadening our customer acquisition funnels while sourcing creditworthy customers backed by technology and robust credit guardrails, while keeping a strong focus on collection efficiencies across businesses.

Our proprietary AI driven next-gen digital credit engine ‘Project Cyclops’ is now implemented in Personal Loans in addition to Two-wheeler, Farm Equipment, and SME Finance businesses. It will go live in Home Loans and Loan Against Property and Rural Group Loans and MFI businesses in the new financial year. At LTF, we are no longer just automating processes, we are deploying predictive intelligence at scale. Our portfolio management engine, ‘Project Nostradamus,’ is now live in Beta for Two-wheeler Finance, while ‘Project Helios,’ our AI Underwriting Co-Pilot is live in SME Finance. The recent launch of ‘Project Orion’ – Nostradamus Co-pilot in December 2025 has brought automated conversational intelligence to our portfolio management, ensuring we stay ahead of risk while enhancing customer experience. We remain focused on continuously strengthening our risk and credit frameworks, which will serve us well in times to come.

Furthermore, through our RAISE’ 25 conference and the 'Pitch Point' competition launched as a part of RAISE, we are nurturing a new ecosystem of AI entrepreneurship and thought leadership. We are confident that our focused actions will not only ensure a sustainable and resilient performance in the coming quarters, but also truly transform LTF into a risk-first, tech-first, diversified retail finance company.”

Key Highlights:

Robust Retail Franchise:

The Company’s granular and deep pan-India Retail franchise is led by its strong distribution capabilities, namely, its geographic presence in around 2 Lakh villages from around 2,257 rural meeting centers/branches and 439 branches across urban centers. This extensive geographic presence is also supported by around 14,000 distribution points built over 15 years. In Q3FY26, the Company also launched its first Sampoorna Branch in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. The Company also leverages around 2.8 Crore of its customer database to drive a credible cross-sell and up-sell franchise, contributing 40% of the Company’s repeat disbursements share in value and 48% in count during Q3FY26. The Company has a portfolio mix of 59% Urban and 41% Rural. 

Building a diversified retail franchise:

Rural Business Finance:

Q3FY26 disbursements at Rs. 6,740 Crore vs. Rs. 4,599 Crore, up 47% YoY. Book size at Rs. 28,976 Crore vs. Rs. 26,231 Crore, up 10% YoY. Growth driven by heightened focus on improving collection efficiency and macro sectoral trends.

Farmer Finance:

Q3FY26 disbursements at Rs. 2,783 Crore vs. Rs. 2,495 Crore, up 12% YoY. Book size at Rs. 16,671 Crore vs. Rs. 15,075 Crore, up 11 % YoY. GST 2.0 along with a favourable monsoon fuelled robust festive demand resulted in all-time high disbursements.

Two-wheeler Finance:

Q3FY26 disbursements at Rs. 3,217 Crore vs. Rs. 2,414 Crore, up 33% YoY. Book size at Rs. 13,913 Crore vs. Rs. 12,676 Crore, up 10% YoY. GST 2.0 & robust festive demand resulted in all-time high disbursements.

Personal Loans:

Q3FY26 disbursements at Rs. 3,574 Crore vs. Rs. 1,642 Crore, up 118% YoY. Book size at Rs. 12,810 Crore vs. Rs. 7,820 Crore, up 64% YoY. Growth in the segment aided by big tech partnerships and focus on continuously broadening customer acquisition channels.

Housing Loans and Loan Against Property:

Q3FY26 disbursements at Rs. 2,879 Crore vs. Rs. 2,475 Crore, up 16% YoY. Book size at Rs. 28,682 Crore vs. Rs. 23,461 Crore, up 22% YoY.

SME Finance:

Q3FY26 disbursements at Rs. 1,550 Crore vs. Rs. 1,249 Crore, up 24% YoY. Book size at Rs. 7,946 Crore vs. Rs. 5,817 Crore, up 37% YoY.

Gold Loan:

Q3FY26 disbursements at Rs. 1,408 Crore. Book size reached Rs. 1,738 Crore. Focus remains on geo-expansion and increasing disbursement from new branches.

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF)

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) (www.LTFINANCE.com), formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd. (LTFH), is a leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), offering a range of financial products and services. Headquartered in Mumbai, the Company has been rated ‘AAA’—the highest credit rating—by four leading domestic rating agencies.  In August 2025, S&P Global Ratings upgraded LTF’s long-term Issuer Credit Rating to “BBB/Stable” from “BBB-/Positive” and short-term issuer credit rating to “A-2” from “A-3.” Fitch Ratings has assigned LTF Long-Term Foreign and Local-Currency Issuer Default Ratings of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook.  It has also received leadership scores and ratings by global and national Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating providers for its sustainability performance. The Company has been certified as a Great Place To Work® and has also won many prestigious awards for its flagship CSR project—Digital Sakhi—which focuses on women's empowerment and digital and financial inclusion. Under Right to Win, being in the ‘right businesses’ has helped the Company become one of the leading financiers in key Retail products. The Company is focused on creating a top-class, digitally enabled, Retail finance company as part of the Lakshya 2026 plan. The goal is to move the emphasis from product focus to customer focus and establish a robust Retail portfolio with quality assets, thus creating a Fintech@Scale while keeping ESG at the core. Fintech@Scale is one of the pillars of the Company’s strategic roadmap—Lakshya 2026. The Company has over a 2.8 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.

X: x.com/LnTFinance

Facebook: www.facebook.com/LnTFS

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/lntfinance

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lntfinance

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ltfinance

L&T Finance's financial awareness mascot, Sachet Kumar, promotes safer digital habits to make people 'scam-smart'

LTF has created Ltfsachet.in to give users the tools to learn, prepare, and stay scam-safe. A primary feature is the Link Verification Tool, which allows users to paste suspicious URLs to quickly determine their safety. This tool utilizes Google Safe Browsing and the ChatGPT API to classify risk levels into a simple color-coded system: green for no risk, orange for moderate threats, and red for high-risk scams. Additionally, the platform offers gamified scam awareness quizzes themed around critical topics like UPI safety, deepfakes, phishing, advance fee scams, etc. Users need to navigate these real-life scenarios to earn the ‘Sachet Shield’ digital badge, recognizing them as ‘Scam-Smart.’ 

The microsite also provides a scam-safety education section, featuring a digital library of practical learning modules and past financial awareness videos to help users recognize and protect themselves against daily digital threats.

Ms. Kavita Jagtiani, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at LTF, shares, “Today, nearly everyone with a smartphone has, in some way, been targeted by scams. Fraudsters have become incredibly sophisticated, using technology to make it nearly impossible to distinguish between what is real and what is fake. Those who are less digitally savvy are often the most vulnerable, risking the loss of their hard-earned life savings in an instant. 'Sachet with Sachet' is our sincere attempt to educate and empower every citizen. By providing active tools and simple guidance, we want to ensure that being 'Scam-Smart' becomes the new norm for everyone.”

To drive widespread awareness, the campaign leverages a robust influencer and social media strategy built on interactive and community-led engagement. This includes unique podcast-style collaborations where influencers invite the animated mascot Sachet Kumar as a special guest to share actionable and scam-safe resolutions for the New Year 2026. This is complemented by a vox pop engagement strategy, featuring street-led interviews where creators have candid conversations with the public about fraud, awarding physical Sachet Shield trophies to those who demonstrate they are scam-smart. 

Link to the microsite: Ltfsachet.in

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF)

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) ( www.LTFINANCE.com ) formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd., (LTFH) is a leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), offering a range of financial products and services. Headquartered in Mumbai, the Company has been rated ‘AAA’ — the highest credit rating — by four leading domestic rating agencies. S&P Global Ratings has recently upgraded LTF long-term Issuer Credit Rating to “BBB/Stable” from “BBB-/Positive” and short-term issuer credit rating to “A-2” from “A-3”. Fitch Ratings has assigned LTF Long-Term Foreign and Local-Currency Issuer Default Ratings of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook. It has also received leadership scores and ratings by global and national Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating providers for its sustainability performance. The Company has been certified as a Great Place To Work® and has also won many prestigious awards for its flagship CSR project – “Digital Sakhi”- which focuses on women's empowerment and digital and financial inclusion. Under Right to Win, being in the ‘right businesses’ has helped the Company become one of the leading financiers in key Retail products. The Company is focused on creating a top-class, digitally enabled, Retail finance company as part of the Lakshya 2026 plan. The goal is to move the emphasis from product focus to customer focus and establish a robust Retail portfolio with quality assets, thus creating a Fintech@Scale while keeping ESG at the core. Fintech@Scale is one of the pillars of the Company’s strategic roadmap - Lakshya 2026. The Company has over 2.7 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.

X: x.com/LnTFinance

Facebook: www.facebook.com/LnTFS

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/lntfinance

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lntfinance

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ltfinance

A fully customizable health insurance product with industry-first features like 10x Cumulative Bonus, Gym & Sports Injury Cover along with other Special Covers like Endless Sum Insured
 

At the same time, the health insurance landscape is evolving. The industry is gradually moving away from rigid, standardised offerings towards solutions that better reflect individual requirement making it more personal. Customisable health plans allow individuals to pay for what truly matters to them, rather than being locked into features they may never use.
 

How Customisable Health Insurance is redefining Health Coverage

Aligning Coverage with Life Stages
Healthcare needs evolve with age, life stage, and changing lifestyles. Younger individuals may prioritise affordability and accident-related cover, families often seek maternity and child healthcare benefits, while older adults may require enhanced protection for chronic conditions. Customisable plans allow coverage to adapt in line with these changing requirements.

Managing Healthcare Costs More Effectively
By selecting relevant add-ons and opting required features and limits, policyholders can balance coverage and premiums more efficiently. This makes health insurance more accessible while still offering meaningful protection.

Addressing Lifestyle and Preventive Healthcare Needs
With lifestyle-related health concerns becoming more common, customers are increasingly opting for features such as regular health check-ups, wellness benefits, areas that traditional plans may not adequately address.

Keeping Coverage Relevant Over Time
As individuals change jobs, relocate, or experience shifts in family structure, insurance needs also evolve. Customisable health insurance plans make it easier to review and update coverage periodically, without the need to start afresh, ensuring continued relevance over time.

Reflecting this growing preference for flexibility, SBI General Insurance recently introduced “SBI General Health Alpha”, a health insurance solution designed to adapt to customers’ evolving healthcare needs. The product enables policyholders to personalise their coverage through a range of optional benefits, allowing them to build a plan that suits their current priorities while offering the flexibility to adjust it over time.
 

The key features of SBI General Health Alpha includes

• Up to 10x Cumulative Bonus - This is add-on cover which provides up to 10x cumulative bonus annually, if no claim is made under the policy.

• Unlimited Sum Insured - Base Sum Insured of the policy will be unlimited. A claim of any amount will become payable, subject to Policy terms and conditions.

• Endless Sum Insured - Covers hospitalization expenses for a single claim beyond the Base Sum Insured, this benefit can be availed once in lifetime of the policy.

• Gym & Sports Injury Cover - This is industry’s-first and exclusive add-on which provides OPD benefits for injuries sustained during hobby sports or daily fitness activities, covering specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, prescribed medicines, and physical therapy.

• Plan Ahead - This unique add-on benefit provides Waiting Period continuity earned by the policyholder to newly married spouse (age up to age 35 years) and/or newborn children (maximum 2 children), provided they are enrolled within 120 days of marriage or birth.

• Welcome Discount - The product offers distinctive “Welcome Discount” of 5%, if new policy is purchased within 5 days of quote generation.

At SBI General Insurance, the emphasis is on giving customers greater choice and ensuring that health insurance evolves with their needs across different life stages, rather than remaining a fixed, one-time purchase. As India continues to strengthen its healthcare ecosystem, customisable health insurance is emerging as a natural progression, one that places customers at the centre of coverage decisions while supporting long-term health security and financial resilience.

About SBI General Insurance
SBI General Insurance, one of the fastest-growing private general insurance firms, backed by the robust support of SBI, upholds a legacy of trust and security. We position ourselves as India's most trusted general insurer amidst a dynamic landscape. Since our establishment in 2009, our expansion has been substantial, growing from 17 branches in 2011 to a nationwide presence in 146 branches. In FY 2024-25, SBI General Insurance reported a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of INR 14,140 crores, recording a YOY growth of 11.1%.
 

The company received numerous prestigious accolades, showcasing its excellence across various domains. Key honors include being named as the Domestic General Insurer of the Year – India and Claims Initiative of the Year – India at Insurance Asia Awards 2025 Singapore, Large General Insurance category at the Mint BFSI Summit & Awards, the 3rd InsureNext Awards 2024 for Best Claims Settlement, and India’s Best General Insurer of the Year at the 7th Insurance Conclave Awards. At the India Insurance Summit & Awards 2024, the company secured titles for General Insurance Company of the Year and Leading Implementer of Analytics Technology in Insurance. Additionally, it was honored as the Best BFSI Brand at the ET NOW Best BFSI Brands Conclave 2024 and included in BW BusinessWorld’s India’s Most Respected Companies. Certified as a Great Place to Work in 2024, the company also excelled at the ETBFSI Exceller Awards 2024 with recognition for Best Claims Management in Insurance and Best CSR Campaign of the Year, further highlighting its commitment to social responsibility and innovation.
 

With a team of over 9,000+ employees and our multi-distribution model covering Bancassurance, Agency, OEM, Broking, Retail Direct Channels, and Digital collaborations, we are committed to providing both Suraksha and Bharosa to all our consumers. Leveraging a vast network that includes over 22000+ SBI branches, plus agents, financial alliances, OEMs, and digital partners, we extend our services to even the most remote areas of India. Our offerings cater to Retail, Corporate, SME and Rural segments, and our diverse product portfolio ensures accessibility through both digital and physical channels.

The report points to a resilient small business credit environment marked by sustained portfolio expansion, gradual formalisation, wider lender participation and healthy asset quality.  

Key Findings

Strong Credit Growth: Aggregate small business credit exposure reached ₹46 lakh crore, up 16.2% YoY, with active loan accounts rising 11.8% YoY to 7.3 crores. Comprehensive policy initiatives for the MSME sector including implementation of several Government credit schemes have played a pivotal role in sustaining strong credit growth.

Increased Formalization: Sole proprietors form ~80% of credit and ~90% of borrowers. The fastest-growing cohort is “sole proprietors with entity presence,” up 20% YoY, led by LAP. As of Sep’25, 23.3% were new-to-credit and 12% new-to-enterprise, signaling increased formalization.

NBFCs Expanding Market: Private banks lead enterprise lending, closely followed by PSBs while NBFCs gain share among sole proprietors with more than 41% share.

Unsecured Loan Growth: For enterprises, working capital dominates (~57% POS), while term loans fund capex. For sole proprietors, LAP leads, followed by business and CV loans. Unsecured loans grew 31% YoY despite stress concerns.

Credit Momentum in Smaller States & Services: MH, TN, UP, GJ lead by portfolio size, but TS, AP, WB show high growth. Beyond-Top-100 locations now hold a rising share, especially in UP, MP, KA, TN. Manufacturing leads in absolute credit, while services grew 19.6% YoY.

Improved Portfolio Quality: PAR 91–180 fell to ~1.4% (Sep’25) from 1.7% (Sep’23). Enterprises show better risk, but sole proprietors also improved. Very Low/Low Risk borrower share rose between Sep’23–Sep’25, aided by better underwriting and digital data.

Odisha – State in Focus

• Small Business Credit portfolio grew from ₹0.67 lakh crore (Sep’23) to ₹0.96 lakh crore (Sep’25), up 17.2% YoY vs. national 16.2%.

• Aspirational districts’ credit grew >22% YoY, outperforming state and national averages with better delinquency.

• Public Sector Banks dominate (>40% share), while NBFCs rapidly expand in under-penetrated areas.

• Risk profile improving: Very Low Risk share rose from 40.1% (Sep’23) to 47.1% (Sep’25) for small enterprises, creating more lending opportunities for banks.

Sachin Seth, Chairman, CRIF High Mark and Regional Managing Director – CRIF India and South Asia said, “Sole proprietors continue to anchor India’s small business credit ecosystem, accounting for close to 80 percent of the borrower base as of September 2025. At the same time, borrowers with both individual and enterprise credit presence are contributing a steadily rising share of overall credit exposure, and this segment has recorded the strongest growth in exposure over the year. Together, these trends indicate that credit deepening and gradual formalisation are progressing in parallel as small businesses scale.”

About CRIF High Mark

CRIF High Mark is an RBI licensed credit bureau in India that commenced its bureau operations in March 2011. CRIF High Mark offers Credit Bureau Information and Identification and fraud prevention services. It is India's first full-service credit information company which provides comprehensive credit information for all borrower segments, namely Commercial, Consumer, and Microfinance borrowers. With the databases of individuals and businesses from over 5,000 financial institutions CRIF High Mark provides credit information services and supports millions of lending decisions every month.

CRIF High Mark is part of CRIF S.p.A. a global company headquartered in Bologna, Italy. CRIF is a global company specializing in credit & business information systems, analytics, outsourcing and processing services, as well as advanced digital solutions for business development and open banking. Globally, CRIF operates in 37 countries with more than 10,500 financial institutions and over 600 insurance companies. CRIF's services are used by over 90,000 companies and more than 1,000,000+ consumers.

About SIDBI

Since its formation in 1990, SIDBI has been touching the lives of citizens across various strata of society through its integrated, innovative and inclusive approach for all round development of MSMEs. SIDBI has directly or indirectly through various credit and developmental measures impacted the  myriad Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the country, whether they are traditional, domestic small entrepreneurs, bottom-of-the-pyramid entrepreneurs, or high-end knowledge-based entrepreneurs.

Link to the report: www.crifhighmark.com/media/5971/small-business-spotlight-report_digital.pdf

For more information, please visit:  https://www.sidbi.in/. 

With a powerful 6% cashback on dining and travel spends, the revamped PaisaSave Credit Card delivers strong value with no joining fee​
 

With a powerful 6% cashback on dining and travel spends, the revamped PaisaSave Credit Card delivers strong value with no joining fee, making it an ideal choice for consumers who are avid travellers, foodies and frequent diners.
 

The upgraded card also offers savings on day-to-day spends and is one of the most rewarding lifestyle credit cards in its segment for new-age India. Customers can earn up to Rs. 3,000 cashback per month through accelerated 6% benefits on dining and travel. Beyond this cap, all spends in these categories continue to earn 1% cashback.

In addition, users can instantly activate a virtual YES BANK PaisaSave RuPay Credit Card, allowing seamless UPI-based credit payments for everyday transactions.
 

Mr. Anil Singh, Country Head – Credit Cards and Merchant Acquiring, YES BANK, said, “As spending on dining and travel continues to grow, credit card users are seeking meaningful rewards that truly add value to these experiences. We are pleased to present the new PaisaSave Credit Card, in partnership with Paisabazaar, which brings premium benefits and propositions designed to elevate everyday financial experiences for consumers across segments.”
 

Ms. Santosh Agarwal, CEO, Paisabazaar, said, “Our co-created strategy with YES BANK remains focused on building digital-first, high-impact products. Conversations with consumers have indicated that cashback continues to be one of the most sought-after propositions in credit cards. With the new PaisaSave Credit Card, we wanted to build an exceptional proposition. The card adds genuine value to a large and growing consumer segment, for whom eating out and travel are an integral part of their lifestyle.”
 

The card carries no joining fee, and the annual fee of Rs. 499 from the second year onward can be waived upon achieving Rs. 1.2 lakh spends in the preceding year.
 

Key Features of the upgraded YES BANK Paisabazaar PaisaSave Credit Card:

• 6% cashback on dining and travel spends across platforms such as Zomato, Swiggy, EazyDiner, MakeMyTrip Goibibo, Airbnb, hotel chains like Taj, Marriott, Radisson etc.

• Unlimited 1% cashback on all other online, offline and UPI spends

• 1% fuel surcharge waiver

• No joining fee
  ​

Know more about YES BANK Paisabazaar PaisaSave Credit Card: www.paisabazaar.com/yes-bank/paisabazaar-paisasave-credit-card

*Cashback applicable on relevant MCCs.

For detailed information please visit: www.yes.bank.in/personal-banking/yes-individual/cards/credit-cards/paisabazaar-credit-card

About Paisabazaar
Paisabazaar, a part of PB Fintech (listed since 2021), is India’s largest marketplace for consumer credit and free credit score. Over the last 11 years, Paisabazaar has earned the trust of over 55 million consumers. Paisabazaar has built 65+ partnerships withBanks, NBFCs, and fintechs to offer a broad range of credit products. Paisabazaar is ISO (27001:2013) and PCI DSS certified organisation, with industry-best controls, to safeguard the best interest of consumers.

Eminent Speaker, panellist, and the Award winners at the M1 Group’s Samaah 2025 in Mumbai

Samaah 2025 emphasised the importance of collaboration across the supply chain finance ecosystem to shape the next generation of trade and supply chain financing in India. The forum witnessed participation from the entire banking spectrum, including public sector banks, private banks, multinational banks, and NBFCs.
 

A key highlight of the evening was the keynote address by Mr K. Rajaraman, Chairman, International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), who underscored the significant under-penetration of global trade finance in India. He noted that current factoring and trade credit volumes stand at approximately USD 45 billion, accounting for only about 10% of India’s merchandise exports of nearly USD 425 billion, compared with a global benchmark of around 20%.
 

Mr Rajaraman highlighted that while initiatives such as TReDS have expanded access to domestic trade finance, particularly for MSMEs, there remains substantial headroom for growth. He emphasised that the future of trade finance lies in technology-led platforms that enhance transparency, mitigate risk, and enable lenders to scale sustainably. With India targeting USD 2 trillion in exports by 2030, he noted that efficient, low-risk access to trade finance will be critical to achieving this ambition.
 

Among the key moments of Samaah 2025 was the unveiling of a comprehensive suite of Supply Chain Finance solutions - UFX (Unified Financing Xperience), developed by MYND Fintech, a subsidiary of M1xchange and a leading digital lending marketplace. The supply chain finance platform is designed for large corporates to manage multiple working capital programs through a single interface. Designed to simplify and unify financing across both payables and receivables, UFX enables enterprises to manage all financing programmes on a single integrated platform. The platform offers deep ERP integration and access to over 70 banks, NBFCs, factors, and TReDS platforms, enabling automated and largely touchless transactions.
 

Commenting on the success of the event, Mr Sundeep Mohindru, Founder and Promoter, M1 Group, said, “The success of Samaah 2025 lies in the depth and quality of conversations across the supply chain finance ecosystem. Bringing regulators, financiers, and industry leaders onto a common platform enabled meaningful dialogue on how technology can reduce friction, mitigate risk, and unlock capital for businesses of all sizes. At M1 Group, we remain committed to building digital infrastructure that supports sustainable growth and strengthens India’s global trade competitiveness.”
 

The forum featured several high-impact discussions, including a panel on ‘Improvement of Yields for Banks’, where industry experts Mr Nagaraj Garla, Executive Director, IDBI Bank, and Mr Deepak Kumar, Senior Executive Vice President, Tata AIG General Insurance Company Limited, shared insights on enhancing yield performance through innovative financing models, digital enablement, and risk-optimised credit frameworks. The session was moderated by Mr Amit Sachdev, Co-founder & COO, M1 Group, and offered actionable perspectives for banks navigating an evolving financial landscape.
 

The event also featured eminent speakers for a panel discussion, such as Mr Ashutosh Sharma, Chief General Manager, IFSCA, Ms Hirva Mamtora, Managing Director & CEO, India Exim Finserve, and Mr Vasumitra Pandey, CEO - Lighting & Durables, SURYA Roshni Ltd., who highlighted ITFS platforms as a game changer in global trade finance, underlining India’s potential to emerge as a hub for cross-border financing innovation. The session was moderated by Mr Munindra Verma, CEO, M1 NXT, A cross-border working capital solution platform.
 

In addition, a fireside chat on ‘Driving the Next Wave of Digital Supply Chain Finance’ featured perspectives from Mr Navin Agarwal, CFO, Welspun Speciality Solutions Limited, Ms Dimple Chitnis, National Head - Sales & Product, Yes Bank, and Mr Chinmaya Deva Tayal, Senior Director - Sales & Business Development, M1xchange. The session focused on emerging trends in digital supply chain finance, reinforcing Mynd Fintech’s leadership in delivering technology-driven, end-to-end SCF solutions across domestic and cross-border ecosystems.
 

The evening concluded with the Financier Excellence Awards, recognising institutions for their outstanding contribution to strengthening India’s trade and supply chain finance ecosystem.
 

Financier Excellence Awards - Winners

• Category: Best Public Sector Bank with Highest Throughput on M1xchange - Winner - State Bank of India, CANARA Bank, Indian Overseas Bank

• Category: Game Changer PSU Bank on M1xchange - Winner: Punjab National Bank

• Category: Fastest Limit & Bidding on M1xchange - Winner: Bank of India

• Category: All rounder PSU bank on M1 Group - Winner: Bank of Baroda

• Category: Best Private Sector Bank with Highest Throughput & Digital Adoption on M1 Group - Winner: IDBI Bank Limited

• Category: Best MNC Bank with Highest Throughput & Digital Adoption on M1 Group - Winner: Development Bank of Singapore

• Category: Emerging NBFC on M1 Group - Winner: Aditya Birla Finance Limited

• Category: Best NBFC with Highest Throughput on M1xchange - Winner: Jio Credit

• Category: Best NBFC Factor with Highest Throughput on M1 Group - Winner: SBI FACTORS LTD

• Category: Best Small Finance Bank with Highest Throughput & Digital Adoption on M1 Group - Winner: Unity Small Finance Bank Limited

• Category: Most Promising Factoring Startup in IFSC - Winner: INDIA EXIM FINSERVE IFSC PVT LTD

• Category: Highest Throughput on M1 NXT - Winner: AIR8 PTE LTD

• Category: Most Innovative International Factor - Winner: MOGLI LABS ASIA PVT LTD (CREDLIX)
   

About M1xchange
M1xchange is a TReDS (Trade Receivables Discounting) exchange that started in April 2017. M1xchange facilitates the financing of trade receivables of MSMEs from corporate buyers through ‘factoring’ or ‘invoice discounting’ by financiers (Banks and NBFC). In a short span of time, M1xchange has onboarded 70+ Banks, 3,500+ corporates, and 70,000+ MSMEs and has facilitated the discounting of invoices of more than Rs 250,000 Crores. Transactions on the TReDS platform happen digitally and start when the MSME Supplier of Goods & Services raises the invoice, and the Buyer validates the same. This permits the financiers (Banks/NBFCs) to bid against the verified and approved invoice. Once the supplier accepts the bid, the payment is processed in 24 hrs. and credited to the MSME's bank account. Through this platform, M1xchange promises MSMEs greater access to finance at competitive rates and without providing any collateral. Further, the financing is without recourse. MSMEs pass on the risk of receivables to the financiers (NBFCs/Banks) by selling their receivables.

www.m1nxt.com, myndfin.com.

Aditya Birla Housing Finance Limited - Pragati Home Loan

Key Benefits

• Loan amount: From 5 Lakhs to 1.5 Crore

• Tenure flexibility: Up to 30 years, to ensure smaller/flexible EMIs

• Loan upto 90% of property’s market value

• End use for Builder Purchase, Resale, Plot plus Construction, Home Construction, Home Extension & Home Improvement 

• Minimal documentation: Tailored for salaried and self-employed individuals with or without ITR

• Digital onboarding + Track My Loan: Seamless loan journey with transparency.

• Doorstep service: Guidance and support at the customer’s convenience.

Eligibility

• Age – minimum 21 years

• CIBIL: 675 & above/NTC 

• Minimum Income: Salaried: Rs. 7,000 /month & Self Employed: Rs. 1 Lakh/ annum

• Minimum Work Experience/Business Vintage :3 years  

Why It Matters
India’s affordable housing segment continues to expand, driven by rising demand from aspiring homeowners across low- and middle-income groups. Pragati Home Loan bridges this gap through simplified documentation, flexible eligibility norms, and high loan-to-value (LTV) support, enabling more families to transition into formal homeownership. By empowering these aspirations, the offering strengthens India’s affordable housing ecosystem and advances the nation’s vision of inclusive and sustainable urban development.

To know more click on - Aditya Birla Housing Finance- Pragati Home Loan

Aditya Birla Housing Finance, a subsidiary of Aditya Birla Capital, India’s leading diversified financial services provider, stands as one of the fastest-growing housing finance companies in the country. The company is backed by the highest level of creditworthiness, holding a long-term AAA (Stable) rating and a short-term A1+ rating from CRISIL, ICRA & India Ratings. As of September 30, 2025, Aditya Birla Housing Finance manages assets under management of over Rs. 38,270 Crore with a footprint of 167 pan-India branches.

LTF has been a pioneer and an early adopter of various sustainability-related practices

As per Crisil ESG Ratings, the overall rating can be attributed to the Company’s strong performance on key Environmental (E) and Social (S) parameters, including control over the intensities of Scope 1 and 2 emissions and energy consumption, as well as improved performance on attrition, diversity & inclusion, and stakeholder complaints. Further, it has stated that the Company expanded its scope of disclosures on its Scope 3 emissions and taken initiatives to increase its sustainable finance portfolio, which supported the E score. Furthermore, the rating is aided by a healthy Governance (G) score.

Mr. Sudipta Roy, Managing Director and CEO, LTF, said, "Our strong ESG ratings are a significant indicator of how we deliver holistic economic, social, and environmental impact through robust governance, an unwavering commitment to sustainability, and our businesses, which address the needs of unserved and underserved customers. It is a direct result of our proactive approach and dedication to transparency and accountability. Additionally, we are among the first NBFCs to conduct a ‘Double Materiality’ assessment and a 'Business Impact Study' based on ‘True Value Methodology.’ We remain focused on creating such benchmarks in the NBFC sector."

Ms. Apurva Rathod, Company Secretary and Chief Sustainability Officer at LTF, said, "Our commitment to business sustainability is deeply embedded in our strategy. We have been a pioneer and early adopter of various sustainability-related practices, and in many cases, well ahead of regulatory mandates. Our journey transitioned from disclosure-based compliance to building an ESG-conscious organisation, and we are taking significant strides towards it. We have embedded ESG principles across business and operations, ensuring value creation for all our stakeholders.”

Crisil ESG Ratings is a SEBI-registered Category-1 ESG Rating Provider following a subscriber-pays model and relies solely on publicly available information for its ESG rating assessments. The analytical approach combines the Company’s performance relative to its peers with the financial sector's impact on the environment and society, while the G score remains sector-agnostic.

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF)

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) (www.LTFINANCE.com) formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd., (LTFH) is a leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), offering a range of financial products and services. Headquartered in Mumbai, the Company has been rated ‘AAA’ — the highest credit rating — by four leading domestic rating agencies. S&P Global Ratings has recently upgraded LTF long-term Issuer Credit Rating to “BBB/Stable” from “BBB-/Positive” and short-term issuer credit rating to “A-2” from “A-3”. Fitch Ratings has assigned LTF Long-Term Foreign and Local-Currency Issuer Default Ratings of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook. It has also received leadership scores and ratings by global and national Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating providers for its sustainability performance. The Company has been certified as a Great Place To Work® and has also won many prestigious awards for its flagship CSR project – “Digital Sakhi”- which focuses on women's empowerment and digital and financial inclusion. Under Right to Win, being in the ‘right businesses’ has helped the Company become one of the leading financiers in key Retail products. The Company is focused on creating a top-class, digitally enabled, Retail finance company as part of the Lakshya 2026 plan. The goal is to move the emphasis from product focus to customer focus and establish a robust Retail portfolio with quality assets, thus creating a Fintech@Scale while keeping ESG at the core. Fintech@Scale is one of the pillars of the Company’s strategic roadmap - Lakshya 2026. The Company has over 2.7 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.

X: x.com/LnTFinance

Facebook: www.facebook.com/LnTFS

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/lntfinance

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lntfinance

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ltfinance

Chef Ranveer Brar, Her Highness Radhikaraje Gaekwad, Maharani of Baroda & Sandeep Batra, Head, International Wealth & Premier Banking, HSBC India, at the branch inauguration

Vadodara, known for its rapid economic growth and industrial prowess, is emerging as a significant hub for wealth creation. The city is home to a burgeoning population of affluent, High Net Worth (HNW), Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW), and non-resident clients in one of India’s rapidly growing wealth and industrial hubs.  HSBC’s new branch is strategically positioned to meet the financial and wealth needs of this customer segment.

The expansion reinforces HSBC’s focus on the wealth opportunity in India, where it is the leading international bank offering a full spectrum of solutions and services to clients across International Wealth and Premier Banking, and Corporate and Institutional Banking. 

Commenting on the launch, Sandeep Batra, Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking, HSBC India, said, “As entrepreneurial spirit and innovation continue to drive economic growth and personal wealth, affluent customers are increasingly adopting a global outlook. They are seeking a trusted partner who is able to consistently serve them across jurisdictions. Our new branch in Vadodara reflects our commitment to being closer to our customers and delivering world-class banking solutions tailored to their unique needs. As the leading international bank in India, we remain focused on enabling our clients to unlock opportunities and achieve their aspirations, both in India and internationally.” 

With this addition, HSBC now has a network of 27 branches across 15 cities in India. HSBC has maintained a strong presence in India for over 170 years, supporting customers in their financial journeys both locally and globally.

Further HSBC India will open branches in Amritsar, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, Faridabad, Indore, Jalandhar, Kanpur, Ludhiana, Lucknow, Mysuru, Nagpur, Nashik, Navi Mumbai, Patna, Rajkot, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram and Vishakhapatnam.

About HSBC India 

HSBC India offers a full range of banking and financial services through 27 branches across 15 cities. HSBC is one of India's leading financial services groups, with around 44,000 employees in its banking, investment banking and capital markets, asset management, insurance, software development and global resourcing operations in the country. It is a leading custodian in India. The Bank is at the forefront in arranging deals for Indian companies investing overseas and foreign investments into the country.

About HSBC Holdings plc

HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of HSBC, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 60 countries and territories. With assets of US$3,099bn at 30 September 2024, HSBC is one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations.

Zaggle Recognised Among the Top 10 Companies in Forbes India DGEMS 2025 

The DGEMS (Digital Global Expansion of Market-Ready Startups) 2025 initiative by Forbes India identifies high-potential Indian companies poised to scale internationally. The evaluation considered key criteria including scalability, defensibility, innovation capability, technology maturity, business model strength and global market potential.

Forbes India noted that this year’s selected companies represent a growing wave of Indian enterprises expanding into new geographies and reshaping global industries through technology-led disruption. In its official remarks on Zaggle’s selection, Forbes India stated, “Zaggle’s vision, impact, and offerings align strongly with our Global Business Potential criteria. We look forward to amplifying its international success through global recognition and cross-border collaboration opportunities.”

Speaking on the recognition, Mr. Avinash Godkhindi, MD & CEO, Zaggle, said, “We are honoured to be selected among the Top 10 companies in the Forbes India DGEMS 2025 program. This recognition reinforces our commitment to building a world-class, innovation-driven business that delivers meaningful value to enterprises. As we accelerate our global expansion journey, this acknowledgment strengthens our confidence and validates our strategy of combining intelligent spend management, deep technology and robust financial products to serve diverse markets across the world.”

The recognition further positions Zaggle as a globally competitive SaaS Fintech Player, ready to leverage new international opportunities, strategic partnerships and high-growth markets. Backed by a strong technology foundation, deep domain expertise and a proven track record of large-scale enterprise execution, Zaggle is well placed to navigate global expansion with speed and confidence. The company continues to advance its mission of transforming how organisations manage spends, automate financial workflows and drive business efficiency through intelligent, digital-first and highly scalable solutions. As Zaggle broadens its global footprint, it remains committed to delivering innovation-led value and empowering enterprises worldwide to operate with greater transparency, control and agility.

About Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services Limited (Zaggle)

Founded in 2011, Zaggle (BSE: 543985 & NSE: ZAGGLE) is a category-leading spend management company with a strong technology-led value proposition and a diversified user base. Operating in the business-to-business-to-customer (B2B2C) segment, Zaggle is among a select group of players with a comprehensive suite of financial technology products and services.

Zaggle is one of the largest issuers of prepaid cards in India through its banking partners and offers a robust portfolio of SaaS solutions spanning tax, payroll and rewards management. As of September 30, 2025, the company has issued more than 50 million prepaid cards, serving more than 3.5 million users across industries. Zaggle’s enterprise network spans banking and financial services, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, FMCG, infrastructure and automobiles.

For more information, please visit: www.zaggle.in

Fibe’s NBFC arm, EarlySalary Pvt. Ltd, has achieved an improvement in its credit ratings by three top rating agencies, reaffirming the company’s robust underwriting and risk management framework, operational resilience, and commitment to strong governance standards.

Acuité Ratings has assigned Fibe a long-term rating of ‘A’ with a Stable outlook. This reflects Fibe’s resilient business model and management’s focus on responsible growth and asset quality. On the other hand, India Ratings has upgraded Fibe’s long-term rating to A- with a Positive outlook whereas CARE Ratings has revised Fibe’s short-term rating from A2 (Stable) to A2+, recognising enhanced liquidity, diversified funding sources, and timely debt servicing.

Founded in 2015, the company recently marked its 10th year milestone. Fibe has significantly evolved over the years from a consumer lending platform to a full stack financial services platform. The company has diversified its portfolio and has a strong presence across impact lending sectors such as healthcare and education financing in addition to personal loans. 

Fibe caters to the growing aspirations of young and tech-savvy Indians and continues to build India’s most extensive digital-first consumer lending infrastructure focused on financial inclusion, accessibility, and impact. The company has expanded its footprint, having served over 37 lakh customers till date with presence in 930 cities in India.

Mr. Ashish Goyal, Managing Director of Fibe’s NBFC (EarlySalary Services Pvt Ltd) said, “The multi-agency rating upgrade reflects the strength and stability of our business model. It is a testament to the trust and confidence of our customers, partners and investors. Robust risk management has always been paramount to us at Fibe and as we enter the next decade of growth, we remain committed to delivering tech-enabled financial access to our customers while maintaining the highest standards of transparency and asset quality.” 

About Fibe 

Fibe is one of India’s leading consumer lending apps focused on young, aspirational, and tech-savvy Indian consumers. Fibe has grown multifold over the years and emerged as a market leader in providing financial assistance to young middle-income and underserved groups to support them fulfil their aspirations. It offers a range of financial products including impact loans for sectors like healthcare and education and solar rooftop financing. Fibe’s financial solutions suite is focused on individuals who need credit that’s transparent, responsive, and easy to manage digitally.

Due to its scalable business model, It has access to debt lines from leading banks, NBFCs and wholesale debt markets. It has been certified with ISO/IEC 27001 for its Information Security Management System (ISMS). Fibe has disbursed more than 8 million+ loans worth Rs. 33,000 Cr+ since inception through its lending partners.

• Winner of BW Festival of Fintech Lending Platform of the Year (Gold) and Fintech Brand of the Year (Silver)

• ET Healthcare Awards 2024 & 2025 - Excellence in Affordable Healthcare Financing

• Entrepreneur 2024 Founder of The Year & Best Innovation in Financial Services

• Winner of G20 Digital Innovation Alliance – Best Startup in Fintech 

HDFC Pension’s trajectory of growth and leadership is reflected in several notable milestones. The Company’s AUM has surged from Rs. 6 cr. in FY 2013-14 to Rs. 1,50,000 cr. in FY 2025-26, supporting countless Indians in building meaningful retirement savings. Holding a market share of 43%** in terms of AUM, HDFC Pension demonstrates a strong commitment to performance and a customer-centric approach.

Presently, the Company serves over 27 lakh subscribers who have entrusted their retirement corpus to HDFC Pension as their Fund Manager. Through its Point of Presence (PoP) licence, HDFC Pension has actively promoted adoption, establishing itself as the largest Corporate NPS PoP and collaborating with more than 4,300 corporates to help employees enrol under Corporate NPS.

Sriram Iyer, Managing Director & CEO of HDFC Pension

Commenting on this achievement, Sriram Iyer, Managing Director & CEO of HDFC Pension, stated, “This is an important milestone for us at HDFC Pension. It is the outcome of subscribers’ trust in the product and in HDFC Pension. I would like to thank them for their continued confidence in entrusting us with the task of enabling them build a meaningful retirement corpus. This milestone is an outcome of the advocacy and support from our Corporate and Distribution Partners. Our Employees have played a pivotal role in driving adoption by passionately advocating it through thousands of awareness sessions across the length and breadth of the country.

NPS is a product that is designed for Indians keeping in mind their long-term needs. The recent changes have made the product even more customer-friendly. Our new schemes are designed to meet diverse needs and empower subscribers with more flexibility. For us at HDFC Pension, this is a continuous journey. We look forward to creating many more milestones in the future.”

Long-term financial planning is essential for every individual, to ensure financial security post-retirement. The NPS offers a low-cost, flexible, disciplined, and tax-efficient approach to building a robust retirement corpus. This product provides retirement planning support not only to salaried and self-employed individuals, but also to gig workers and minors (via their parents).

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has recently introduced key reforms that have made NPS more attractive to investors across different age and income groups. With the launch of the Multiple Scheme Framework, NPS has entered a new era of innovation and choice for subscribers.

*HDFC Pension’s AUM grew from Rs. 50,000 cr. in May 2023 to Rs.1,50,000 cr. as of November 17, 2025, reflecting a 200% increase over a 30-month period

**Market Share of Retail and Corporate as on October 31, 2025.

Balu Forge Industries Ltd. (the “Company” or “BFIL”) (BSE: 531112 | NSE: BALUFORGE), a leading precision engineering and manufacturing company, has announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter and half year ended 30th September 2025.
 

Consolidated Financial Performance:

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Jaspal Singh Chandock, Chairman & Managing Director of BFIL stated:

“Revenue from Operations in Q2 FY26 was Rs 2,995 million, an increase of 34.4% year-on-year. EBITDA for the quarter was Rs 828 million, with an EBITDA margin of 27.6%, while PAT was Rs 650 million, reflecting a margin of 21.5%. For H1 FY26, Revenue from Operations was Rs 5,327 million, up 33.8% over H1 FY25, with EBITDA of Rs 1,551 million and PAT of Rs 1,261 million. This performance reflects steady execution and the continued strengthening of Balu Forge’s integrated manufacturing platform.

The greenfield facility at Hattargi, Karnataka, is advancing as planned and remains central to our ongoing expansion. The plant integrates captive forging and precision machining under one setup, improving efficiency and output. Commissioning of the 25-ton closed-die forging hammer, 8,000-ton mechanical press, and automated machining lines is progressing on schedule. When fully operational, total forging and machining capacities will increase to 150,000 tons and 80,000 tons per year, respectively.

The defence division remains a key focus. The dedicated forging and machining line for Empty Shell production, with a capacity of 360,000 shells per year is in the commercialization phase. The company has vendor approvals from leading Indian defence players and continues to add new products across artillery, armoured vehicle and engine components, strengthening its role in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.

We continue to focus on disciplined execution and capacity readiness as we scale operations across forging and machining. The Hattargi facility will strengthen our fully integrated manufacturing base and improve our ability to serve complex, high-value applications. With defence production entering the commercialization stage and capacity expansion on track, Balu Forge is positioned to drive the next phase of growth through scale, technology, and customer diversification.”

HDFC Life has launched ‘Ready for Life’ - its latest research-based study. This one-of-its-kind report makes an effort to quantify the Financial Readiness Gap – the difference between perceived and actual financial preparedness of individuals.

Vineet Arora, Executive Director & Chief Business Officer, HDFC Life

The Index shows a 26-point gap, which implies that there is a big difference in terms of actual readiness of an individual in comparison to how ready they think they are largely due the lack of action to convert financial planning from merely a plan into reality. In other words, the index reveals that individuals are not well-prepared to handle uncertainties of life across different financial aspects.

About the Study
The Ready for Life Index 2025 is a proprietary research initiative by HDFC Life. This research has been conducted by Ipsos India, an independent market research company. Based on 1,836 face-to-face interviews with working men and women aged between 25–55 years across Metros, Tier 2, and Tier 3 cities*, the study evaluates India’s life readiness across four key pillars — Financial Planning, Emergency Preparedness, Health & Well-being, and Retirement Strategy.

The index aims to highlight the gap between perception and actual preparedness, encouraging a shift from short-term savings to structured, long-term financial planning.

Balancing Confidence and Preparedness — India’s Retirement Reality
The Ready for Life Index 2025 evaluates India's overall preparedness across life pillars of high importance and finds that though awareness and optimism are visible, preparedness is still uneven.

While consumers hold clear ideal retirement goals, their financial actions and product choices suggest that these goals may be difficult to reach. Of all the pillars, retirement preparedness is the weakest with a 37-point gap between confidence and level of action. Close to half of urban Indians have yet to begin saving for retirement, and two out of every three anticipate support from family after retirement. 

Most respondents who have started planning for retirement, are of the opinion that a corpus of INR 50 lakhs – INR 1 crore would last about 17 years, which could prove to be a gross underestimation considering inflation and lifestyle costs. These results stress on the need for India to move from family-supported financial security to independent retirement planning and also on the need for awareness on financial planning

Financial Planning and Protection — Traditional Strength, Modern Gaps
While Indian customers are inclined towards conventional savings instruments like endowment insurance plans, fixed deposits, and gold, protection and growth-oriented products like term insurance, market linked products, and retirement products are underutilised. 

Term insurance, which is one of the most cost-effective protection instruments, has modest ownership owing to limited product understanding, myths around claim settlement, and belief that premiums offer no return if the policy holder outlives the policy term. While financial discipline is visible to an extent, the savings space remains dominated by traditional products and short-term goals. The real opportunity lies in encouraging systematic, long-term investing to build sustainable wealth and reduce over-reliance on low-growth instruments.

On a positive note, there is increasing awareness about health and wellness. Four in five survey participants actively engage in physical activities to maintain their overall physical and mental well-being. Similarly, two out of three go for yearly health check-ups. But the gap in coverage continues to exist; 2 in 5 respondents have health insurance cover of less than INR 5 lakh. Further, in terms of emergency funds, 2 in 5 individuals possess sufficient savings to meet home expenses for more than four months.

Regional and Tier-wise Insights

The study reveals notable regional variations in financial readiness across India:

• North India shows the widest readiness gap of 30 points, mainly due to weaker emergency and retirement planning

• East India records the most realistic self-assessment with a gap of 20 points, and also displays a traditional and disciplined savings approach

• South India leads in maturity towards financial and health planning

• West India demonstrates a more diversified investment outlook but lower focus on long-term planning

• Tier 3 cities display the lowest preparedness and widest confidence gaps, highlighting the need for deeper financial literacy efforts beyond metros

Click here for the report

Vineet Arora – Executive Director & Chief Business Officer, HDFC Life, shared his thoughts on the study, “The Ready for Life Index reflects India’s growing awareness and optimism about financial planning but also reminds us that true readiness is built through consistent planning and protection. Confidence alone is not enough — preparedness needs structure and action."

"The findings indicate that retirement remains India’s biggest financial blind spot. Despite higher awareness, the actual action towards long-term security is limited. Through this study, we aim to encourage meaningful conversations around preparedness and protection as essential pillars of financial wellness.”

^*List of cities - Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Jodhpur, Kochi, Vishakhapatnam, Vadodara, Nagpur, Bhubaneshwar, Patna, Muzaffarnagar, Panipat, Thanjavur, Machilipatnam, Anand, Dhule, Bardhaman, Ganjam

Disclaimer
HDFC Life Insurance Co. Ltd. (“HDFC Life”) (i) makes no express or implied representations, warranties or covenants as to the accuracy and/or completeness of the information, data, opinions, commentary, analysis and/or any direct or indirect recommendations included in the Ready for Life Index Study conducted by Ipsos India Pvt. Ltd. (“Study”), and (ii) disclaims any and all damages, costs and liabilities whatsoever to the recipient or reader and or its representatives (tangible or intangible, including, but not limited to loss of business opportunity, loss of profit, loss of market share or loss of goodwill) for any reliance or use made by the recipient or reader and its representatives on the Study, or any errors therein or omissions therefrom.

The report is intended for informational purposes only, and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, taxation, or professional advice by HDFC Life. The recipient or reader and its representatives should not rely solely on this content for making financial decisions, and are advised to seek qualified professional guidance tailored to their personal circumstances. Ipsos India Pvt. Ltd. and the authors disclaim any liability for any direct or indirect losses arising from the use of this report or its content. This report does not constitute an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any financial instrument or product.

India’s financial sector has been evolving in tandem with the country’s economic progress. The focus has been on strengthening financial intermediation, expanding inclusion, and advancing digital transformation.
 

Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund NFO coming soon
 

The upcoming Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund offers investors an opportunity to participate in India’s expanding financial ecosystem through an equity-oriented scheme focused on the Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI) sector.
 

The Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund New Fund Offer opens on Monday, November 10, 2025, and closes on Monday, November 24, 2025. The scheme re-opens for subscription within five business days of the allotment date.
 

Looking at the BFSI sector

India is projected to become a USD 7.3 trillion economy by 2030. The financial ecosystem supports this expansion by enabling savings mobilisation, credit growth, and digital access. For India’s GDP to reach USD 30 trillion by 2047, financial assets would need to expand nearly 20 times. This implies that India’s banking system may require an estimated USD 4 trillion in additional capital over the next two decades to support credit growth and investment needs.
 

At the same time, the Banking, Financial Services and Insurance sector has been evolving rapidly:
 

1. Banks now account for 57% of the sector’s market capitalisation, compared to 85% two decades ago.

2. The sector’s weight in the Nifty 50 index has increased 2.6 times - from 14.6% in FY04 to 37.9% in July 2025.

3. Prominent financial groups have diversified into insurance, asset management, and fintech, signalling the sector’s expanding scope.
 

Source: MOFSL, NSE data as on July 31, 2025 PIB, Bloomberg, IMF, World Bank, CEBR estimates
 

What are Banking and Financial Services Funds?

These are sectoral equity schemes that invest primarily in companies operating across banking, insurance, non-banking finance, asset management, fintech, and related financial services. Such schemes aim to capture opportunities arising from financial deepening, inclusion, and digitalisation trends shaping India’s economy.
 

About the Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund

The Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund is an open ended equity scheme investing in companies that are part of India’s financial ecosystem. The fund seeks to identify businesses that align with long-term structural trends in the BFSI space and may benefit from sectoral growth over time.
 

The portfolio construction follows a multi-step process*:

INQUBE universe – a broad stock universe of around 1,100 companies.

Megatrend filter – identifies large structural shifts in the economy.

BFSI megatrends universe – narrows this down to about 180–200 companies.

Final portfolio – 45–60 shortlisted companies aligned with long-term BFSI themes.
 

*The portfolio count is indicative, and actual number will depend on market conditions at the time of making investment.
 

Key differentiators of the Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund

Broad-based exposure
The fund invests across banks, NBFCs, insurers, AMCs, and other capital market participants - providing exposure beyond lending-focused businesses.
 

Aligned with India’s BFSI megatrends
The scheme is designed around multiple structural themes such as:
 

Digitalisation: UPI and digital payments continue to expand financial access. Non-cash transactions among Indian households are expected to rise from 38% in FY23 to 62% in FY28.
 

Financial inclusion: The number of Jan Dhan accounts has grown nearly 18 times over the last decade - from 33 million in FY14 to 540 million in FY24, with total deposits reaching Rs. 2.3 trillion. These accounts have supported direct benefit transfers across schemes.
 

Demographics: With over 40% of India’s population below 25 years of age, the growing working-age population and rising income levels are expanding demand for credit, insurance, and investment products.
 

Fintech innovation: Fintech-led lending continues to enhance credit access, especially for new-to-credit borrowers and women entrepreneurs.
 

Valuations and outlook: Valuations within the BFSI sector remain below 14-year averages, while asset quality and earnings visibility have improved.
 

Source: PIB, World Bank, MOFSL, Union Ministry of Finance, UN Population Division
 

Why consider a Systematic Investment Plan

Investors looking to participate in India’s long-term financial growth story may consider starting a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) in the Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund. An SIP allows you to invest a fixed amount at regular intervals and may help manage market volatility through rupee cost averaging.
 

You may use an SIP Calculator to plan your monthly contributions and understand how your investment could progress toward your long-term financial objectives. The calculator is an aid, not a prediction tool. It provides only an indicative picture based on assumed rates of return.

Conclusion
India’s economic transformation is being supported by a financial system that is becoming more digital, inclusive, and diversified. The Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund offers an avenue to gain exposure to these long-term structural trends. Investors may consider this scheme as part of a diversified portfolio, in line with their financial goals and risk appetite.
 

Source: PIB, Bloomberg, IMF, World Bank, MOFSL, NSE, Union Ministry of Railways, UN Population Division, CEBR
 

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.

The October edition of the Shriram Mobility Bulletin reflects a strong rebound in India’s mobility ecosystem driven by festive consumption, rural freight activity, and accelerating electric vehicle adoption. Vehicle sales witnessed sharp month-on-month growth across categories, supported by pent-up demand and improved liquidity in the retail and transport ecosystem.

Truck rentals remained firm across key trunk routes in October. The Delhi–Mumbai–Delhi corridor saw the sharpest month-on-month increase at 1.9%, followed by Delhi–Hyderabad–Delhi up 1.0%, Bengaluru–Mumbai–Bengaluru and Kolkata–Guwahati–Kolkata both up 0.7%, Mumbai–Chennai–Mumbai up 0.6%, and Bengaluru–Kolkata–Bengaluru up 0.5%. Rentals on Delhi–Kolkata–Delhi and Delhi–Bengaluru–Delhi remained unchanged, while Delhi–Chennai–Delhi and Mumbai–Kolkata–Mumbai registered minor dips of 0.5% and 1.0%, respectively. On a year-on-year basis, truck rentals were higher by 2–10% across major corridors, led by Bengaluru–Mumbai–Bengaluru 10% YoY, followed by Delhi–Mumbai–Delhi, Delhi–Hyderabad–Delhi, Mumbai–Chennai–Mumbai, and Kolkata–Guwahati–Kolkata each up 9% YoY. Entry restrictions on non-BS VI vehicles into NCR continued to tighten fleet availability, while heavy rains in North India briefly disrupted truck movement even as the arrival of Kharif crops helped bolster freight demand.

Fuel consumption reflected a mixed trend. Petrol consumption rose 8% month-on-month and 7% year-on-year, driven by festive travel, while diesel consumption increased 12% MoM but remained marginally lower by 0.5% YoY due to reduced demand from agriculture and mining sectors.

FASTag collections saw a temporary dip month-on-month, with volumes declining by 3.8% and values by 4.4% to Rs. 6,450 crore, indicating some moderation in intercity freight movement. However, on a year-on-year basis, FASTag volumes and values grew 1% and 5%, respectively, signalling continued growth in toll-based transactions.

Vehicle retail sales recorded a broad-based recovery in October, with nearly all categories registering double-digit month-on-month growth. Goods carriers surged 58% MoM and 23% YoY, while three-wheeler (goods) and e-rickshaw sales rose 59% and 16% MoM, respectively, supported by last-mile delivery and urban logistics demand. Two-wheeler sales soared 144% MoM and 52% YoY as festive buying peaked. Passenger car sales also climbed 83% MoM and 11% YoY, reflecting strong consumer sentiment. Even traditionally cyclical segments like earth moving equipment and agricultural tractors saw month-on-month gains of 44% and 10%, respectively, highlighting the spillover from infrastructure and rural activity.

Electric vehicle (EV) sales were among the strongest ever, marking October as a record month across categories. E-2 wheelers jumped 40% MoM and 39% YoY, while E-3 wheelers grew 16% MoM and 324% YoY, reflecting continued traction in passenger and cargo EV adoption. EV motor cars rose 13% MoM and 158% YoY, underscoring the mainstreaming of electric mobility in both urban and semi-urban markets.

Mr. Y S Chakravarti, CEO and Managing Director, Shriram Finance Ltd. said, "Deepavali delivered exceptional results, with truck rental rates remaining firm and automotive sales across all categories achieving record highs. The focus now is on sustaining this momentum, although a moderation in vehicle demand is anticipated in the coming weeks.”

E-way bill generations maintained their upward trajectory, indicating robust movement of goods. Intra-state generations rose 2% MoM and 25% YoY to 8.58 crore, while inter-state e-way bills increased 6% MoM and 18% YoY to 4.62 crore. Transaction values grew 7% MoM and 19% YoY for intra-state and 8% MoM and 13% YoY for inter-state, signaling sustained consumption and supply chain recovery across sectors.

About Shriram Finance Limited
Shriram Finance Limited is the flagship company of the Shriram group which has significant presence in Consumer Finance, Life Insurance, General Insurance, Stock Broking and Distribution businesses. Shriram Finance Limited is one of India’s largest retail asset financing Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFC) with Assets under Management (AUM) above Rs. 2.81 trillion. Established in 1979, Shriram Finance is a holistic finance provider catering to the needs of Small Road Transport Operators and small business owners and is a leader in organised financing of pre-owned commercial vehicles and two wheelers. It has vertically integrated business model and offers financing number of products which include passenger commercial vehicles, loans to micro and small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), tractors & farm equipment, gold, personal loans and working capital loans etc. Over last 45 years, it has developed strong competencies in the areas of loan origination, valuation of pre-owned commercial vehicles and other assets, and collections. It has a pan India presence with network of 3,225 branches and an employee strength of 78,833 servicing to 96.64 lakhs of customers.

About Shriram Mobility Bulletin
Shriram Finance Limited, the flagship company of the Shriram Group, publishes the monthly Shriram Mobility Bulletin. The Shriram Mobility Bulletin aims to provide stakeholders with a picture of India's statistical data about the logistics and automobile sector through its nationwide network of fleet owners & vehicle dealers and analyses it to identify trends for its stakeholders.

Bio-gas Implemented at Rural India

NBV’s investment will accelerate Sistema.bio’s expansion across India, support the launch of new agricultural and energy solutions, and strengthen the company’s overall growth trajectory.

Established in 2024, Next Bharat focuses exclusively on impact enterprises in India, backing entrepreneurs creating large-scale change across India 2 and India 3. With this partnership, NBV and Sistema.bio aim to advance agritech, enable financial inclusion, strengthen rural supply chains, and decarbonize agricultural value chains.

“Sistema.bio is a perfect match for Next Bharat Ventures’ mission to back entrepreneurs building scalable, innovative businesses that serve the ‘Next Billion’ Indians. By joining forces, we strengthen the last mile: Sistema.bio not only delivers groundbreaking biogas technology, but also ensures robust customer service that can reach millions of farmers in rural areas,” said Vipul Jindal, Managing Director, Founder & CEO of Next Bharat Ventures.

The investment will boost Sistema.bio’s manufacturing capacity, accelerate R&D, and drive the development of new product lines. This includes advanced materials, IoT-enabled solutions, and digital MRV technologies to improve current offerings and maintain leadership in biogas innovation.

“We are thrilled to welcome Next Bharat to our strategic partners and investor group. Beyond the strong alignment in values and impact, this partnership unlocks exciting opportunities to merge Suzuki’s innovation capabilities with our 15 years of experience working alongside family farmers worldwide,” said Alexander Eaton, CEO & Co-founder of Sistema.bio.

For more, visit www.sistema.bio.

Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (“Axis Max Life” / “Company”), formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Limited, today unveiled the findings of the fifth edition of its annual India Retirement Index Study - IRIS 5.0, conducted in partnership with Kantar, a leading global marketing data and analytics company.

 India’s Retirement Index Score Rises to 48 as Early Planning Gains Momentum; Half of Urban Indians believe in prioritizing early retirement savings: Axis Max Life IRIS 5.0

Now in its fifth consecutive year, the India Retirement Index Study (IRIS) continues to serve as India’s most comprehensive benchmark on retirement preparedness—assessing financial, health, and emotional readiness. The 2025 edition shows steady progress, with the Index score rising from 44 in 2022 to 48 in 2025, driven by stronger fitness habits, regular health check-ups, and higher insurance adoption. While financial confidence remains stable, awareness about the required retirement corpus continues to be low, with 7 in 10 respondents believing that ₹1 crore would be sufficient for a comfortable retirement. Health preparedness records the sharpest gain, highlighting India’s growing focus on wellness as a pillar of secure retirement.

This year’s edition sharpens focus on segments such as Return Migrants and Gig Workers, capturing the diverse emotional and financial realities shaping India’s retirement landscape. For the first time, Return Migrants have been studied separately as a cohort, offering insights into how this group balances financial confidence with renewed focus on health and well-being after relocation. With rising awareness, better product understanding, and growing health consciousness, IRIS 5.0 reflects a more retirement-ready India preparing for a secure and balanced future.

Sumit Madan, MD and CEO, Axis Max Life said, “IRIS 5.0 signals a clear shift towards smarter and more holistic retirement planning. Today’s consumers are showing greater health consciousness, higher product awareness, and sustained financial confidence. As health preparedness improves, the next frontier is building adequate retirement corpus and emotional resilience. The study also highlights a growing segment of individuals uncertain about how to begin their planning, reinforcing the need for a trusted advisory support. Diverse segments such as gig workers, women, and return migrants require tailored and inclusive solutions. The findings underline how the next phase of growth for the industry will hinge on delivering more innovative, advisory-led, and inclusive retirement solutions.”

Soumya Mohanty, MD and Chief Client Officer, South Asia, Kantar said "IRIS 5.0 highlights evolving retirement behaviors across India. The rise in product awareness and health-first behaviour is notable. The study’s richer segmental analysis provides actionable cues for policymakers, employers and financial service providers to move from awareness to measurable preparedness.”

Key findings from the India retirement index study 5.0

Retirement readiness rises across the country

• IRIS 5.0 reflects a positive trend in retirement preparedness, with the national score rising to 48 — a 4-point increase from IRIS 2.0. Health readiness has improved to 46, up from 41 in 2022, driven by increased physical activity, more frequent preventive health checks, and a rise in health insurance ownership (now at 50%, +7%). Emotional preparedness remains the next priority, with 71% reporting loneliness concerns in certain cohorts. Emotional confidence has slightly declined, with 72% of Indians expressing concern about potential dependence on family.

Women Show Slight Edge Over Men in Retirement Readiness
Women have a slightly higher retirement preparedness score at 49, compared to 48 for men. A greater proportion of women (82%) expect to remain physically fit during retirement, versus 78% of men. However, women are 8% less likely to invest in risk-based financial instruments and report higher levels of loneliness (74%), underscoring the dual need for both emotional and financial empowerment.

Metros Lead in Retirement Preparedness, Awareness Grows Across Indian Cities 

• IRIS 5.0 indicates a clear upward trend in retirement preparedness across India’s urban centers, led by metros and Tier I cities. Metros, with an IRIS score of 50, reflect a stronger focus on wellness and financial discipline, as more residents adopt regular fitness routines and preventive check-ups (60%). Tier I cities are fast following suit, showing a 13% rise in regular physical activity and a 21% increase in participation in risk-based investments, pointing to growing comfort with diverse financial tools.

Regional Insights Highlight Varied Preparedness Across The Country

• East India leads in overall preparedness, balanced across finance, health, and emotion.

• North India shows highest health recovery post-COVID (+11 points in Health Index), boosted by monitoring and insurance adoption.

• West India demonstrates strong financial momentum (+7 points in Finance Index), driven by stock (+15%) and real estate (+20%) investments.

• South India reflects a balanced wellbeing profile, marked by a 4-point improvement in health sentiment (43) and emotional resilience (59), even as financial sentiment holds steady at 47 points.

Segment Spotlight: Diverse Cohorts Show Varying Preparedness

• Gig Workers (IRIS index score - 47): Reflecting India’s evolving workforce, gig professionals show growing financial independence but weaker health engagement. However, 74% worry about meeting family’s basic needs, and many lack access to structured retirement or health benefits, highlighting a need for inclusive coverage.

• Return Migrants (IRIS index score - 48): Financially confident due to earlier urban exposure, but 52% haven’t had preventive health checks in three years; thus offsetting savings optimism by health neglect. 

• Women (IRIS index score - 49): Lead in financial and health preparedness, driven by stronger health optimism (+7) and rising fitness focus, reflecting proactive planning and higher retirement confidence compared with men (IRIS 48).These cohorts highlight India’s shifting workforce and post-pandemic realities, pointing to a broader need for tailored financial and wellness solutions.

Awareness vs Preparedness Gap Persists

• Awareness improves with the average of known financial products rising to 11.6 in 2025 (IRIS 5.0) from 8.7 in 2022 (IRIS 2.0). Friends/family (72%) and financial advisors (47%) remain key sources.

• Preparedness gap: Only 37% have achieved ≥25% of their target corpus; many underestimate required corpus for retirement (₹1 crore remains common benchmark).

NPS & Workplace Benefits Gain Traction

• NPS awareness at 66% (up from 59%), but ownership stable at approx. 17% due to complexity and need for guidance.

• As per IRIS 5.0, Employee Provident Fund (EPF) continues to be the most common benefit, cited by 69% respondents. When asked about additional add-ons, they would like to receive, regular health check-ups (55%) and medical or hospitalization coverage (49%) emerged as the top preferences.

Health & Prevention Take Center Stage

• 81% engage in regular physical activity (+5 pts since 2022).

• Preventive check-ups remaining at 55%.

• Health insurance ownership at 50% (+7 pts), signaling growing focus on wellness and proactive health management.

Read more about the India Retirement Index Study at - <Website Link>

About India Retirement Index Study 
India Retirement Index Study is an annual retirement study by Axis Max Life conducted in partnership with KANTAR. The study evaluates India’s readiness for a healthy, peaceful, and financially secure retirement across three indices Financial, Health, and Emotional Preparedness each measured on a scale of 0 to 100. The fifth edition surveyed 2,242 respondents across 28 cities, including new segments such as gig workers.

About Axis Max Life Insurance (https://www.axismaxlife.com)
Axis Max Life Insurance Limited, formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Ltd., is a Joint Venture between Max Financial Services Limited (“MFSL”) and Axis Bank Limited. Axis Max Life Insurance offers comprehensive protection and long-term savings life insurance solutions through its multi-channel distribution, including agency and third-party distribution partners. It has built its operations over two decades through a need-based sales process, a customer-centric approach to engagement and service delivery and trained human capital. As per annual audited financials for FY2024-25, Axis Max Life has achieved a gross written premium of INR 33,223 Cr.

For more information, please visit the Company’s website at www.axismaxlife.com.

About Kantar 
Kantar is the world’s leading marketing data and analytics business and an indispensable brand partner to the world’s top companies. We combine the most meaningful attitudinal and behavioural data with deep expertise and advanced analytics to uncover how people think and act. We help clients understand what has happened and why and how to shape the marketing strategies that shape their future. To know more, visit www.kantar.com.

Shiv Bidani Co-founder- National Finance Olympiad

But the journey of GST has been anything but smooth. With its ups and downs over the past eight years, the Indian government is now implementing Next-Gen GST Reforms in 2025. These reforms are designed to simplify the tax system further and make life more affordable for the common man. But will the benefits really reach you, or will this just be another step in the government’s long-term economic strategy? Let us break it down. 

1. Simplified Tax System: What’s Changed?
One of the biggest changes with the 2025 GST reforms is the shift to a simplified two-slab tax system: 5% and 18%. Previously, the system had multiple slabs ranging from 0% to 28%. This reduction in the number of tax slabs aims to make the taxation process easier for businesses and consumers alike.

This also means that the everyday items we can’t live without, like soap, toothpaste, and packaged foods, well, the good news is that their GST has been slashed to either 5% or even 0%. That means, in simple terms, these essentials could cost you less, which makes a real difference when you are managing your household budget.

When it comes to medicines and medical devices, the GST has been brought down from 12% to 5% or Nil. For anyone who relies on regular medication, this is huge. It makes life-saving drugs and healthcare products much more affordable and accessible, especially for those who need them most.

2. Will the Price Reductions Actually Reach You?
Although the GST reforms promise to bring down prices, there’s still a big question: Will we actually see those savings at the checkout?

Here’s the thing — businesses are the ones in the middle. The government can lower taxes, but it’s really up to the businesses whether they’ll pass on those savings to you or keep them for themselves. In the past, we've seen some price cuts trickle down, but not always. So, while the tax cuts are there, whether you feel them in your wallet depends on how quickly and fully businesses adjust their prices.

This isn’t just limited to a few sectors. Whether you’re shopping for a car, a phone, or even your groceries, the experience can be a bit hit or miss. For example, when the GST on cars and two-wheelers was reduced from 28% to 18%, we were all expecting lower prices. But many car manufacturers didn’t immediately lower their prices, and some didn’t pass on the full benefit to customers. As a result, consumers didn’t feel that reduction in their pockets right away.

A LocalCircles study found something similar with essential food items. Even though GST cuts were implemented, many consumers reported not noticing a difference in prices at the store. Why? Because sometimes, manufacturers or retailers choose to keep prices steady or adjust them slowly, which delays the savings reaching the customer.

Key Insight: While the GST reforms are a step in the right direction, the real benefit will depend on how businesses adapt and whether they pass the reductions on to customers quickly and uniformly.

3. Impact on Local Businesses and Employment
Beyond just affecting prices for consumers, the GST reforms also aim to give a boost to small businesses (MSMEs). By making tax filing simpler and cutting down on compliance costs, these changes are especially helpful for sectors like handicrafts, small manufacturing, and agriculture. Lower GST rates on raw materials mean these businesses can cut their costs, too.

With reduced GST on things like cement, iron, and farming equipment, local businesses can lower their operational costs. As a result, they become more competitive and can offer lower prices on goods and services. So, you could see your everyday purchases becoming more affordable.

When businesses save on costs, they can ramp up production, which boosts demand. And as demand increases, it could lead to more job opportunities especially in rural and semi-urban areas, where small businesses are the backbone of the economy. 

Take the reduction of GST on tractors and irrigation tools from 12% to 5% which is expected to lower farming costs. This could result in cheaper farm produce, thus benefiting consumers while also making farming more sustainable.

4. Long-Term Benefits: Economic Growth and Household Savings
The government’s goal with these reforms is not just to lower immediate costs, but to also stimulate long-term growth. The logic behind reducing taxes on essential goods is that by making life more affordable, families will have more disposable income, which they can either save or spend on other goods and services. This increased demand can stimulate economic growth.

According to the Ministry of Finance, GST collections have hit record highs, showing steady growth. This reflects not just stronger compliance but also an uptick in economic activity. As more businesses come under the formal GST system, the tax base expands, which means more funds are available to support public services and welfare initiatives.

While the GST reforms of 2025 have the potential to significantly benefit the common man, especially through price reductions on essentials, the true success will depend on how businesses, consumers, and government agencies adapt. The common man must stay informed, not just about GST rates but also about how these changes affect the prices of goods and services in their daily life.

To truly understand and take advantage of these reforms, financial literacy is key. With better knowledge of taxes, savings, and how these reforms will impact various sectors, consumers can make informed decisions, thus ensuring that the full benefits of GST reach their pockets. The reforms are a step forward, but only through awareness can the common man fully realize their potential.

Team LTF received the award at the Global Fintech Fest 2025
 

LTF has been recognised for its exemplary efforts in redefining customer engagement and setting new benchmarks in digital financial experiences through the PLANET App. The PLANET 3.0 version, introduced in June 2025, is significantly enhancing the customer experience through its intuitive design, advanced features, and seamless servicing. The upgraded version integrates multiple lifestyle and utility services such as BikeDekho, DeHaat, MagicBricks, ClearTax, and CIBIL Score check, making it a comprehensive one-stop platform for customers’ financial and value-added needs.

Mr. Sudipta Roy, Managing Director & CEO at LTF, said, “The recognition at a global platform like GFF for our PLANET App is a powerful testament to our focus on innovation, technology, and customer-first approach. The App reflects the core of L&T Finance's vision to offer digital finance delivery as a customer value proposition. We are dedicated to building a robust tech infrastructure that is designed to effectively manage the variety, volume, velocity, and veracity of data, further enabling our vision.”

The award was shortlisted after a rigorous multi-stage evaluation process by GFF’s expert jury, assessing parameters such as user experience, innovation, scalability, customer satisfaction, and business impact. The Company’s PLANET App stood out for its human-centric design, robust technology stack, and ability to deliver personalised digital journeys to millions of customers across urban and rural India.

Launched in 2022, the PLANET App has rapidly become one of India’s most trusted and widely used financial platforms, with over 2 Crore downloads, a ~4.5-star rating, and servicing 87% of LTF’s customers.

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF)

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) (www.LTFINANCE.com) formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd., (LTFH) is a leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), offering a range of financial products and services. Headquartered in Mumbai, the Company has been rated ‘AAA’ — the highest credit rating — by four leading domestic rating agencies. S&P Global Ratings has recently upgraded LTF long-term Issuer Credit Rating to “BBB/Stable” from “BBB-/Positive” and short-term issuer credit rating to “A-2” from “A-3”. Fitch Ratings has assigned LTF Long-Term Foreign and Local-Currency Issuer Default Ratings of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook. It has also received leadership scores and ratings by global and national Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating providers for its sustainability performance. The Company has been certified as a Great Place To Work® and has also won many prestigious awards for its flagship CSR project – “Digital Sakhi”- which focuses on women's empowerment and digital and financial inclusion. Under Right to Win, being in the ‘right businesses’ has helped the Company become one of the leading financiers in key Retail products. The Company is focused on creating a top-class, digitally enabled, Retail finance company as part of the Lakshya 2026 plan. The goal is to move the emphasis from product focus to customer focus and establish a robust Retail portfolio with quality assets, thus creating a Fintech@Scale while keeping ESG at the core. Fintech@Scale is one of the pillars of the Company’s strategic roadmap - Lakshya 2026. The Company has over 2.6 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.
 

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