The financial landscape is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements and evolving customer expectations. At the heart of this disruption are fintechs, with their innovative solutions and agile approach, and small finance banks, striving to bridge the financial inclusion gap. This dynamic interplay raises a critical question: are these two forces destined to be competitors or collaborators? The intricate relationship between fintechs and small finance banks explores the potential synergies and challenges that shape their coexistence. Alignment and Shared Vision In today’s fast-paced era of digital banking, small finance banks aim to modernize banking through technology by aligning perfectly with fintechs’ commitment to financial innovation. This partnership leverages the strengths of both institutions, offering a wider range of accessible financial products and services through Fintech’s extensive distribution network. Enhanced Products and Convenience The usual product suite of small finance banks includes savings and current accounts with competitive rates and flexible features which could become conveniently available through a mobile app of any fintech company. This eliminates the need for physical visits to branches. A fintech’s secure payment infrastructure further strengthens the user experience. The collaboration between the two will empower aspiring entrepreneurs by providing financial support, flexibility, and expertise to grow their businesses. A 2024 report by the Reserve Bank of India highlighted that transactions through digital channels have seen a year-on-year increase of 30%, largely attributed to collaborations between SFBs and fintech firms. This surge reflects the growing integration of technology in banking services. Competition Fosters Innovation The rise of fintechs has challenged the traditional banking landscape, including SFBs. Fintechs often offer more convenient and affordable financial solutions, attracting customers away from established institutions. SFBs are caught between traditional banks and fintechs, particularly in the digital space. They must adapt quickly to compete effectively. This competition can drive positive change, pushing SFBs to invest in technology, improve customer experience, and explore new business models. The relationship between fintechs and SFBs is multifaceted. While they compete in some areas, collaboration offers significant potential benefits for both parties and, ultimately, consumers. Building Successful Collaboration Strategic partnerships require trust, clear communication, and a shared vision for financial inclusion and innovation. Supportive regulations and policies are crucial for fostering collaboration and a fair playing field. The NASSCOM Fintech Report 2024 stated that SFBs have significantly increased their investment in fintech solutions, with a 40% rise in funding allocated to fintech startups compared to the previous year. This investment is focused on areas such as digital lending, payments, and customer engagement. A Journey, Not a Rivalry The dynamic between Fintechs and SFBs is far from a zero-sum game. Instead of viewing each other as competitors, both sectors have the opportunity to thrive through collaboration and constructive competition. By joining forces and leveraging their unique strengths, fintechs and SFBs can drive meaningful advancements in financial services, enhance access for diverse populations, and uncover new pathways for mutual growth and prosperity. This partnership promises not only to reshape the financial landscape but also to foster an environment where innovation and inclusivity flourish together.
Tag: banking
Financial Inclusion: Bridging the gap with fintech
Financial inclusion remains a global challenge, with a considerable section of the world’s population needing access to basic financial services. According to the World Bank, around 1.7 billion adults are unbanked, which means they need access to formal financial services. While there has been improvement in recent years, a significant gap still needs to be closed. Fintech, or financial technology, has emerged as a significant instrument for tackling this issue by offering innovative and accessible financial services. The Financial Inclusion Situation Due to limitations such as physical infrastructure, cost, and legal limits, traditional financial institutions have failed to reach disadvantaged populations, particularly in developing nations. As a result, millions remain uninsured and must be enrolled in the formal financial system. Global Advancement According to the World Bank’s Global Findex Database 2017, 69% of individuals globally have a financial institution or mobile money provider account, up from 51% in 2011. This is an encouraging development, but more work is needed to get the other 1.7 billion individuals into the fold. Regional disparities Financial inclusion is not uniform across areas. Sub-Saharan Africa, for example, had only 43% of persons having a bank or mobile money account in 2017. In high-income OECD countries, this figure topped 90%. These differences emphasize the need for global initiatives to increase financial inclusion. Gender Gap Another big issue is the gender gap in financial inclusion. According to the World Bank, women are less likely than males to access formal financial services in many developing nations, with a gender disparity of up to 9 percentage points in some regions. Fintech’s Role in Bridging the Gap Fintech firms are reshaping the financial landscape by harnessing technology to provide creative solutions that overcome the limits of traditional banking institutions. Here are some significant data and insights into how fintech is helping to close the financial inclusion gap: Mobile Money Services: Mobile money is a valuable tool for boosting financial inclusion, particularly in areas with limited banking infrastructure. As of 2021, the GSMA claimed 372 active mobile money services in 95 countries, with over 300 million registered accounts. These services enable users to keep, transmit, and receive money using mobile phones, making financial services more accessible. Digital Payments: Digital payment alternatives, such as digital wallets and peer-to-peer (P2P) payment networks, have acquired substantial acceptance. According to Statista, the global transaction value in the digital payments market is expected to exceed US$8 trillion in 2023, with a CAGR of 17.6% from 2021 to 2025. These platforms facilitate transactions and increase access to financial services for people who do not have bank accounts. Microfinance and lending: Fintech platforms make it easier for small enterprises and individuals to obtain microloans. M-Pesa, a mobile money network in Kenya, for example, provides its users with tiny, short-term loans. Ant Financial’s Alipay has provided small loans to millions of consumers and enterprises in China. These inventions enable marginalized groups to establish or expand their enterprises. Insurtech: Insurance is a critical component of financial inclusion because it provides a safety net against unforeseen financial shocks. Insurtech startups use technology to produce low-cost insurance products. Microinsurance products, for example, are becoming increasingly popular in Africa and Asia. Blockchain and cryptocurrency: Blockchain technologies and cryptocurrencies are also being investigated as tools for financial inclusion. These technologies provide secure and low-cost methods of moving and storing value, possibly reaching unbanked people. To sum up, the objective of reaching unbanked and underprivileged communities becomes increasingly realistic as technology advances and fintech businesses emerge. However, it is critical to guarantee that the growth of fintech services is carried out responsibly, with an emphasis on consumer protection and regulatory collaboration. Finally, collaboration among fintech entrepreneurs, governments, and financial institutions is critical to attaining real financial inclusion and reducing gaps in access to financial services globally.
Corporate Financing vs. Investment Banking: What’s the Difference?
Corporate financing and investment banking are two terms that are frequently used interchangeably yet have unique roles in the complicated world of finance. While both are essential components of the financial ecosystem, they serve different tasks and cater to different areas of a company’s financial demands. Understanding the key differences between these two tasks is critical for anyone attempting to navigate the complex world of corporate finance. Corporate Financing: A Source of Growth Corporate financing refers to the tactics and techniques used by businesses to generate capital for a variety of purposes, primarily to support their operations, expansion, or financial restructuring. The basic purpose of corporate financing is to guarantee that a firm has adequate capital to meet its short-term and long-term financial needs. Corporate funding can take several forms, including debt issuance, equity financing, and hybrid instruments. Essentials: Debt financing: This entails borrowing money from lenders, such as banks or bondholders, in the form of loans or bonds. Companies use this option when they require consistent financing but do not want to dilute ownership by issuing new shares. Equity Financing: Equity financing is selling firm shares to investors, allowing them to become partial owners of the company. This strategy is frequently used to obtain funds for startups or established businesses wishing to grow. Hybrid Financing: Convertible bonds, for example, are hybrid products that combine debt and equity aspects. They enable businesses to obtain funding while giving investors the option to convert their investments into cash. Investment banking, on the other hand, is a financial service that focuses on facilitating the process of obtaining capital, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and advisory services. Investment banks operate as go-betweens for firms in need of funding and investors looking for places to put their money. These institutions play an important role in the operation of financial markets, frequently assisting corporations through complex transactions and providing crucial insights into market movements. Essentials: Capital Raising: Investment banks assist businesses in raising money by underwriting securities such as stocks and bonds and advising on the best time and pricing for these offerings. Mergers and Acquisitions: Investment banks advise corporations undergoing mergers, acquisitions, or divestitures. They aid in appraising assets, negotiating acquisitions, and assuring regulatory compliance. Financial advisory: Investment banks provide financial consulting services, such as strategic assistance on corporate finance, risk management, and restructuring, to assist companies in improving their financial performance and overall competitiveness. What are the significant distinctions between the two? Focus and Expertise: Corporate financing is largely focused on a company’s internal financial operations and capital-raising initiatives, whereas investment banking is involved with external financial transactions, market activity, and consulting services. Role in Capital Markets: Corporate financing deals with a company’s own financial structure and funding needs, whereas investment banking acts as an intermediary between firms and investors in the larger capital markets. Services Offered: Corporate financing is more concerned with funding decisions, capital structure, and internal financial management. Investment banking comprises a broader range of services, such as M&A advising, underwriting, and market analytics. To summarize, while corporate financing and investment banking are both important components of the financial landscape, they address different areas of a company’s financial needs. Corporate financing attempts to secure a company’s internal financial stability and growth, and investment banking is concerned with navigating the complex world of external capital markets and enabling financial transactions. Understanding the distinctions between these two tasks is critical for firms and investors trying to make informed financial decisions in today’s dynamic and linked global economy.
Importance of making the Indian Digital Lending Sector more Transparent
Transparency is a fundamental cornerstone of trust in any lending relationship, and it has special significance in the context of small business lending. The expansion of the economy, the creation of new jobs, and innovation are all significantly influenced by small enterprises. Small firms frequently encounter difficulties obtaining capital due to the complexity of the lending environment. Transparency becomes essential in this situation to guarantee honest, moral, and ethical lending practices that benefit both lenders and small enterprises. Only 48% of small firms can currently pay their financial obligations. The need for transparency in the financing process is greater than ever. Additionally, financial institutions must be more fair and open given the destruction the COVID-19 outbreak has caused. Financial resources are constrained, so investments must be better targeted if they are to yield the maximum results. Maintaining financial transparency is crucial for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), which are frequently unable to offer bank collateral in order to attract such investment. Good prospects and companies with sound financial reporting procedures will have a greater chance of obtaining credit without having to put up a lot of collateral since banks will have more information on which to base their lending choices. Small Business Lending: The Value of Transparency According to a World Bank assessment, there are $5.2 trillion in unmet financing needs for micro, small, and medium-sized businesses worldwide, which is nearly 1.5 times their present loan market. The idea of transparency in small company lending refers to bank lending where information is published to make sure the borrowers are fully aware of the terms and circumstances of the credit. According to estimates, only 14% of small businesses that applied for loans received all of the funding they wanted. Transparency is therefore more important than ever. It is possible to achieve greater transparency by disclosing important information to the borrower before signing an agreement about loan prices and fees. Additionally, bank transparency requires them to refrain from irresponsible lending by keeping hidden fees and unexpected rate increases hidden from borrowers, which are not disclosed upfront. At the beginning of the agreement, the borrower should be informed of all charges and the possibility of increases. Credibility When small company lending is transparent, a lender-borrower relationship is based on trust. Borrowers might have doubts about the loan, interest rate, or repayment plan if these details are not made transparent. If there is a lack of openness, the borrower can also find it challenging to understand how the lender uses their financial and personal information. Successful Credit Grant Growing firms looking to borrow money from the bank may have a lot of sway if they can consistently and successfully create accurate financial reports. Furthermore, since they give banks the crucial data they need to make loan choices, high-quality, honest financial reports eliminate the requirement for significant collateral. Information Shortage Small business owners are reportedly paying up to 50% in interest without much knowledge, according to a study by the Opportunity Fund and the Federal Reserve. Little companies lose money as a result of this. Small businesses struggle to make informed judgements and evaluate pricing due to a lack of information, such as loan rates. In conclusion, transparency in small business lending is essential for fostering trust, promoting fairness, complying with regulations, and supporting the financial success of both lenders and borrowers. Transparent lending practices create a level playing field, enabling small businesses to thrive and grow sustainably.
How is the Business Correspondent model boosting financial inclusion in India?
The availability and use of inexpensive financial services by all segments of society is a major driver of economic growth and poverty alleviation. In a varied and large country like India, achieving comprehensive financial inclusion has unique problems. However, the Business Correspondent (BC) model has emerged as a revolutionary force, bridging the gap between traditional banking services and the underprivileged population by leveraging technology and creativity. Let us view how the Business Correspondent concept is helping to increase financial inclusion in India. Understanding the Business Correspondent Model The Business Correspondent model is a framework that enables banks to extend their reach and supply financial services to rural and unbanked areas through intermediaries known as Business Correspondents. These correspondents function as bank representatives and conduct various financial transactions on behalf of the bank, bringing official financial services closer to the doorsteps of those who previously had restricted access. Key Benefits of the Business Correspondent Model Improved Accessibility: The Business Correspondent approach makes use of the existing network of local agents, such as Kirana store owners, post offices, and self-help groups, to operate as Business Correspondents. These agents are integrated into the areas they serve, increasing access to financial services for rural and underserved people. Technology-Led Approach: The BC model’s emphasis on harnessing technology to deliver financial services efficiently is one of its pillars. BCs allow secure and convenient banking services in places with limited physical infrastructure by using biometric identification, mobile banking, and smart card-based transactions. Financial Education and Awareness: Business correspondents play an important role in increasing financial literacy among the unbanked. They help individuals understand the necessity of formal financial services and empower them to make informed financial decisions by guiding them through the benefits of savings, credit, and insurance products. Credit Access for the Unbanked: The BC model makes it easier to extend loans to individuals and small enterprises that were previously excluded from mainstream banking systems. Business Correspondents help financial institutions give microloans and credit facilities to the underserved by completing detailed evaluations and using digital records, thereby boosting entrepreneurship and economic progress. Government Programs and Subsidies: The BC model has proven useful in executing numerous government initiatives and ensuring the proper distribution of subsidies and benefits. Business Correspondents serve as a critical link between beneficiaries and government organizations, enabling frictionless transactions and decreasing leakages in welfare programs. Challenges and Prospects: While the Business Correspondent approach has helped increase financial access, several issues remain. Infrastructure limits, connectivity issues, and regulatory barriers must be cleared in order to fully exploit the model’s potential. To overcome these challenges, it is critical to strengthen digital infrastructure, extend internet connectivity, and streamline regulatory frameworks. Furthermore, regular training and capacity-building programs should be established to improve the abilities of Business Correspondents so that they can efficiently provide comprehensive financial services. Financial institutions, technology providers, and legislators must work together to establish an ecosystem that promotes financial inclusion. Conclusion The Business Correspondent model has emerged as a game changer in India’s quest for financial inclusion. The BC approach provides cheap banking services to historically marginalized populations by using technology, empowering local agents, and increasing financial literacy. As India continues to make strides in bridging the financial divide, the Business Correspondent model stands as a beacon of hope, paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future.
Financial Inclusion; the need and future
Financial inclusion refers to the process of ensuring access to affordable financial services, such as banking, insurance and credit, to all sections of society, particularly the underprivileged and low-income groups. Data Points to understand Financial Inclusion The need for Financial Inclusion Addressing poverty – Financial inclusion can help to alleviate poverty by providing access to formal financial services and promoting savings and investment habits among low-income households. Currently, India faces poverty in 75% of rural and 50% of urban households, totaling an official poverty percentage of 62.5%. Addressing the basic financial needs of the said population is the need of the hour to ensure we boost financial inclusion. Promoting economic growth – Financial inclusion can contribute to economic growth by enabling the flow of credit to small and medium-sized businesses, which are often the backbone of the Indian economy. With MSMEs contributing over 30% of the GDP, it is a pressing priority to assist them financially. Reducing income inequality – Financial inclusion can reduce income inequality by providing financial services to underserved sections of society, including rural areas and women. As per data, the pandemic has led to a further contraction of income and wealth in the bottom 50% of India. The top 30% own 90% of India’s wealth and interestingly, the top 10% own over 72% of India’s total wealth and the top 5% of the population owns nearly 62% of the wealth. Understanding the statistics makes us realize the staggering disparity in income. As per the Reserve Bank of India, only 27% of Indian adults are financially literate. This makes it easier for intermediaries and informal financial systems to defraud the illiterates. However, with educational programs, this issue can be addressed and eliminated. Promoting financial stability – Financial inclusion can help to promote financial stability by reducing the reliance on informal and unregulated financial systems that are often associated with fraud and other illegal activities. Empowering individuals – Financial inclusion can empower individuals by enabling them to make informed financial decisions, access credit, and invest in their future. The future of Financial Inclusion The future of financial inclusion in India looks promising, with significant progress made in recent years. Putting digital transformation at the forefront by the government and financial institutions has accelerated and is further expected to accelerate inclusivity in the coming years. With MSMEs and underserved individuals steadily adopting internet banking, mobile banking, etc., a digital shift can be expected. With Fintechs and NBFCs joining strengths, the collaboration has been beneficial for the financial domain. Better innovation with robust financial products and services that cater to the specific needs of the underserved has been introduced and executed in the market. This customization and personalization only seem to get better with time and adaption. However, it is important to note that financial literacy plays a very critical role in everything we have spoken of thus far. Without basic awareness and literacy to make informed decisions, every other initiative may prove futile. The government, along with several initiatives, has joined forces with financial institutions to convey awareness and literacy to the last mile. In conclusion, the future of financial inclusion in India looks promising, with the potential to improve the lives of 900 million people by providing access to formal financial services, promoting savings and investment, and reducing poverty and inequality.
Indian banks migrating to digital channels; more on the evolution
The evolution of Indian banks migrating to digital channels can be traced back to the early 2000s when the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) started promoting the use of electronic payment systems. The introduction of the National Electronic Fund Transfer (NEFT) in 2005 and the Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) in 2010 were significant steps toward the digitization of payments. However, the real push towards digital banking in India came with the demonetization drive in November 2016. The sudden withdrawal of high-value currency notes led to a surge in digital payments, forcing banks to ramp up their digital infrastructure and services. Since then, there has been a significant increase in the adoption of digital channels by Indian banks. Today, most banks in India offer a range of digital services, including mobile banking, internet banking and digital wallets. Customers can access their accounts, transfer funds, pay bills and even apply for loans online or through mobile apps. Banks also invest heavily in artificial intelligence, chatbots and other digital technologies to enhance customer experience and streamline operations. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the adoption of digital banking in India as customers increasingly relied on online channels to conduct their banking transactions. Banks responded by launching new digital products and services, such as video KYC (Know Your Customer) and virtual credit cards. Examples of Banks that have revamped their offerings approach Indian banks are increasingly adopting digital channels to provide a more convenient and efficient banking experience to their customers. Whether it was Internet banking to reduce touchpoints or mobile banking to bring services to your fingertips, the transformation has been massive. Building on the evolution, Indian banks also proactively introduced altering service designs and encouraged the use of contactless payments through technologies like the NFC, QR codes, mobile wallets, etc. Today, urban India experiences the provision to make payments to street vendors too through digital methods. It is a vision to convert India into a digital-first country from a cash-heavy economy and joining force with the banks to achieve the said vision is Fintechs. Collaborating with Fintechs has accelerated the entire process whether in terms of internal operations of the bank or external aspects. The evolution of Indian banks migrating to digital channels has been rapid and transformative and the trend is expected to continue as more customers shift towards digital banking.
AI Trends that will Revamp the Fintech Arena
The financial industry has transformed noticeably over the years. It revamped its traditional methods of service to be more customer-centric in its approach. To a large extent, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been a critical enabler in this transformation. Today, the financial industry is majorly based on building itself as a customer-centric domain and providing never-like-before customer experiences. For instance, Chatbots and virtual assistants have not only made services available 24×7 but have also improved customer service and satisfaction drastically, all while reducing costs for financial institutions. AI also has the reliable ability to analyze customer data that enables it to create personalized financial plans along with recommendations of customized products and services that are fast, accurate, efficient and secure. Interestingly, AI still has areas to be explored and is capable of much more than it is currently offering in the financial domain. AI brings in an amalgamation of better experience, lower costs and better growth. Revolutionizing AI trends There are several AI trends that have the potential to revolutionize the Fintech industry. Some of the most significant ones include – Personalized banking experiences: With AI, fintech companies can use customer data to create personalized experiences for users. This can include personalized product recommendations, customized investment portfolios, and tailored financial advice. For example, investment companies understand customer’s income and expenditure behaviour along with the duration of peak to low expense span. Based on this analysis along with others like your investment preference, type and need, they create an entire portfolio for you to benefit from. Fraud detection: AI-powered fraud detection systems can analyze customer behaviour and transactions in real-time to detect any suspicious activity. This can help prevent fraudulent activities such as identity theft, money laundering, and credit card fraud. Due to the potential AI holds in the field of fraud detection, Banks worldwide are expected to spend an additional $31 billion on artificial intelligence (AI) embedded in existing systems by 2025 to reduce fraud. Risk management: AI can help fintech companies analyze large amounts of data to identify potential risks and opportunities. This can help them make more informed decisions and manage risks more effectively. As a lender, financial institutions face huge risks in ascertaining their borrowers. AI reduces this risk significantly by creating a financial personality of the borrower by collating and analyzing various data points. Blockchain technology: AI can be used to enhance the security and efficiency of blockchain-based transactions. This can help fintech companies offer more secure and transparent financial services. Blockchain plays a very critical role in taking financial services to the last mile. It enables the integration of various points to build a secure and reliable marketplace for individuals far and new to the financial domain. AI holds great potential and it is with time we shall witness the transformation it is yet to bring!
Technology’s Role in Financial Inclusion
The start of the ‘technology era’ was a turning point for human evolution. The invention of ‘the wheel’ was the beginning of one of the most important eras of humankind. Over the years, technology along with its surroundings has evolved manifold and today, it is upholding several aspects that humankind as a society is striving to achieve. One very critical element in modern times is financial accessibility and inclusion. Technology plays a critical role in advancing financial accessibility and inclusion, which refers to the access and use of affordable and appropriate financial products and services by all segments of society, particularly those who are underserved or excluded from the traditional financial system. Tech elements that have furthered financial inclusion Digital payments refer to access to traditional banking services to make and receive payments. Digital payment has offered safe, convenient and cost-effective ways to conduct financial transactions, including remittances, bill payments, and peer-to-peer transfers, without needing a physical bank account. Digital payments have witnessed more than 200% growth in digital payment volume since FY18-19. Total transaction value is expected to show an annual growth rate of 15.56% resulting in a projected total amount of US $ 321.70 Bn by 2027. It is not only building a payments structure for Urban India but also for the Rural market. As per World Economic Forum, the Digitalization of small and medium businesses could add anywhere between $158-216 billion to India’s GDP by 2024. Technology has made it possible for individuals to access basic banking services through online and mobile banking and platforms. It has allowed individuals to check their account balance, make transfers, pay bills and even apply for loans, insurance and other financial services online, eliminating the need for physical visits to brick-and-mortar banks. The number of mobile banking payments across India in the fiscal year 2019 accounted for approximately 6.2 billion. This was a tremendous increase compared to the previous fiscal year. For instance, to further the use of online and mobile banking, SEWA – the largest trade union in India has trained 4,00,000 women in digital payment methods. Technology has facilitated the use of big data and alternative credit scoring models, which can assess the creditworthiness of individuals who lack a formal credit history. This enables financial institutions to extend credit to those who were previously excluded due to a lack of credit history, thereby promoting financial inclusion. Today, owing to this, 63 million underserved MSMEs in India are served with a range of customized financial services. Technology has made financial education and literacy more accessible to underserved populations through online resources, mobile apps, and educational content. This empowers individuals with knowledge about financial products, services, and best practices, enabling them to make informed financial decisions and manage their money effectively. With a rural population of 900 million, the SECC measured that 23.5% of rural households have no adults above the age of 25 who were literate. Illiteracy bars the population in question from accessing financial services since they are unable to open a basic bank account. However, to challenge this issue, biometric identification was introduced which enabled the illiterate population to open and access bank accounts with the help of their fingertips. For instance, AePS; individuals can withdraw money or enquire about their bank balance with their fingertips. This has proven to be helpful for a number of individuals and has allowed them to be included in the financial realm. Overall, technology has the potential to democratize access to financial services, reach underserved populations, and promote financial inclusion. However, it is important to ensure that technology is implemented in a responsible and inclusive manner, taking into account issues such as data privacy, cybersecurity, and digital literacy to ensure that the benefits of technology are shared widely across all segments of society.
Fintechs designing the ‘One Platform’ Concept
With thousands of Fintechs in the market constantly experimenting with newer products and services, the idea of bringing it all to a single platform was quite anticipated. However, Fintechs are now expected to do much more. Fintechs began by designing a virtual universe where customers could choose from a range of products and services; however today, they are allowing customers to avail of all the services on a single platform. For instance, providing insurance with credit, payment gateways on investment platforms, credit on shopping apps, etc. Although Fintechs face an array of challenges pertaining to their strategic directions, they emerge with better services across financial needs. The purpose of designing the ‘One Platform’ concept Fintechs are creating single platforms for multiple services for several reasons: Convenience – Having multiple services available in one platform makes it more convenient for customers to manage their financial needs without having to switch between different applications or websites. Cost Savings – Developing and maintaining multiple platforms for different financial services can be costly for fintech companies. By offering multiple services on a single platform, they can save on development and maintenance costs. Cross-selling – Fintechs can use the multiple services offered on a single platform to cross-sell their other services to existing customers, thereby increasing their revenue streams. Data Analytics – Fintechs can leverage the data generated by the various services on their platform to gain insights into their customers’ financial behaviour, which can inform future product development and marketing efforts. Competitive Advantage – Fintechs that offer multiple services on a single platform may have a competitive advantage over traditional financial institutions that offer separate platforms for different services. This can help fintechs attract and retain customers who prefer a more streamlined and integrated financial experience. The benefits of having multiple solutions on a single platform There are several benefits that users can enjoy when multiple financial products are available on a single platform – How are Fintechs designing the ‘One Platform’ concept? Fintechs are creating single platforms for multiple services by leveraging technology and partnerships with other companies. Here are some ways in which fintechs are creating these platforms: API Integration – Fintechs can integrate different financial services, such as banking, lending, investment, and insurance, using Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). APIs enable different software systems to communicate and exchange data with each other, allowing fintechs to combine services from multiple providers into a single platform. Partnerships – Fintechs can partner with other companies that offer complementary financial services to expand their offerings on a single platform. For example, a fintech company that provides investment services can partner with a bank to offer banking services to its customers, all through a single platform. In-house Development – Fintechs can also develop their own in-house financial services and integrate them into a single platform. This can include building their own payment processing systems, digital wallets, or investment platforms. Acquisitions – Fintechs can acquire other companies that provide different financial services and integrate them into their existing platform. This can help fintechs quickly expand their offerings and gain access to new customer bases. Overall, fintechs are using a combination of strategies to create single platforms for multiple financial services, enabling customers to easily manage their financial needs from a single point of location. They are ensuring that their focal point is the users, their journey, experience and benefits.
The Future Of Online Banking In India
Digital banking in India is expected to grow with a CAGR of 23.1% from 2022 to 2030. NBFC growth is also estimated to hit $5 trillion in 2024. E-Banking existed as an additional service before COVID-19. However, after the pandemic, globally, the concept of Internet banking has changed. Indian banks have achieved phenomenal growth by adopting digital technologies. Banks hope to have a multi-dimensional relationship with customers to improve banking services. Upcoming Digital Banking Trends As digital banking continues to grow, it opens up new opportunities to reach the underserved market. Rural India has numerous small businesses and cottage industries that can thrive well with futuristic funding options. However, it was difficult for banks to reach out to those consumers. The following digital banking trends will bring financial services and products closer to the rural parts of the country as well: Mobile Banking According to a study, 89% of consumers use mobile banking services. Mobile wallets are also increasingly adopted by rural India due to the widespread growth of digitisation. Security is often a major concern for mobile banking users. Mobile banking has reached 5X growth compared to online banking. Mobile banking will gain even more popularity as the number of millennials and Gen Z customers increases. Emerging Trend Of Neobanks Neobanks are growing at a rapid pace in India. These neobanks operate digitally without any physical branches. They are great alternatives to traditional banks, offering innovative products and reaching out to underserved markets. Due to RBI regulations, Neobanks partners with traditional banks to extend customer services. BaaS The banking As A Service (BaaS) sector is causing major disruption in the fintech industry. Instead of building every service from scratch, it is much easier for NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Companies) to set up Neobanks using the BaaS platform. The neobank technology stack can be customised according to the goals and needs of NBFCs. Partnering with a BaaS provider such as Niyogin, neobanks can offer services using the APIs. They can build on the infrastructure platform already complete with rails that can easily connect with rural customers. Innovative Technologies According to Insider Intelligence Survey, 66% of banking professionals believe that newer technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) will positively impact banking by 2025. AI is now widely used in credit risk evaluation, customer authentication, and customer support. Blockchain technology will also help financial institutions cut down middlemen and reduce operational costs. Challenges For Future Digital-Only Banks Currently, RBI has a strict regulatory framework for digital banks. Digital banks must comply with liquidity standards and capital adequacy similar to commercial banks. Initially, these banks can get a restricted license, and after proving their efficiency, they can upgrade their license. To avail of digital banking services, customers need computer literacy. This is one of the main challenges for digital banks interested in providing services to rural India. Also, the need for secure banking services is also on the rise. The digital banking platform market is expected to reach $1485.5 million by 2028, from $776.7 million in 2021. Currently, 26% of Indians have a digital bank account, which is expected to grow in the future. RBI is also creating a closed sandbox environment for digital banking services. The budget has also carved some space for digital bank units, which is a clear sign of progression for the Indian banking sector. A fintech partner like Niyogin will help banking institutions easily transition from legacy systems to modern and advanced banking technology for futuristic customers.
7 Types of Risk Management You Must Know About
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major disruptions in banking operations. Consumers have become more demanding and so, risk management must be robust. According to leading banking professionals participating in the Deloitte Banking Risk & Regulatory Academy, financial institutions must focus more on credit risk management. The banking structure must restructure and be prepared for forbearance. Apart from commonly known risk management strategies, leading banks also focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) by improving data management strategies and analytics. Moving to the cloud is the next inevitable step to navigating complex risks and ever-changing regulatory requirements. Types Of Risk Management Risk in the banking sector refers to unplanned incidents with major financial consequences, such as reduced or lost earnings. Risk management involves establishing a series of protocols and multi-step procedures that can precisely and accurately mitigate risks. Risk management planning should help financial institutions to recognise threats, assess the damage, and take control measures to prevent risk and minimise the damage. 1. Liquidity Risk Management Banks must safeguard long-term asset funding using short-term liabilities. Funding risk for banks increases when the net outflows increases. This can be due to the non-renewal of different types of retail and wholesale deposits or unexpected withdrawals. Funding institutions must also be prepared to deal with time risk when the expected fund inflows are delayed. Risk management is essential when the non-performing assets increase. Call risk happens when contingent liabilities crystallise, and no viable business opportunities are available. 2. Interest Rate Risk Management Determining the right interest rate that is beneficial for the banks and also for the customers is always challenging. NBFCs that offer lower interest rates to beat the competition must be careful because the adjustments must not result in reduced Market Value of Equity (MVE). The interest rate risks can affect the banks’ earnings and the economic value of the off-balance sheet. 3. Market Risk Management Market fluctuations can lead to market risk when the mark-to-market value of trading portfolios goes down. Also called price risk, the market risk can dramatically increase when the transactions have to be liquidated. Different factors, such as volatility in commodities, equities, currencies, and interest rates, can influence market risks. 4. Credit Risk Management As NBFCs try to capture market share by disbursing more loans to underserved markets, their credit risk increases dramatically. The NPA level of the Indian banking system is high. When the borrowers fail to fulfil their obligations, the counterparty risk and country risk for banks increase. Loan portfolio management and detailed evaluation of borrowers are crucial to managing credit risks. 5. Operational Risk Management Banks risk a huge financial loss when internal processes and systems fail. Global financial links have increased as the banking and financial sector adopt automation. As a result, the potential for operational risks also increases. Transaction risk can result in failure in business continuity. Compliance risk can affect the integrity and credibility of banks. 6. ESG Risk Management ESG risk is the new age risk for financial institutions as they have to comply with inclusion and diversity policies. The pressure from multiple governments to contribute to climate change policies also affects investment value for the banks. Proactive risk management using models that integrate ESG and climate data must be used. 7. Reputational Risk Management In the highly competitive banking sector, reputational risk can result in a loss of trust by customers and stakeholders. This risk can be caused by poor customer service, corruption, and fraud. Banks can prevent class-action lawsuits and other punitive damages with proper reputational risk management. Mitigate Risks With Risk Management Framework Banks and financial institutions must build a robust and scalable risk management model. The framework should include all risk parameters with adequate risk grading. The framework should be updated continuously based on updated risk tolerance levels. The model risk management framework must be built into banking operations for effective risk mitigation.