“In India’s dynamic fintech landscape, 2024 promises a revival of business growth and steadfast support for advanced technologies. As the interim Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 approaches, scheduled to be presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2024, we anticipate that the Interim Budget will align with the industry’s expectation for continued momentum in financial inclusion and innovative lending solutions for MSMEs and the Indian youth.

Whether it was improving business fundamentals, adapting to revised regulatory norms, or braving the funding winter, fintechs have displayed tremendous agility and fortitude in managing these challenges. We are optimistic about the measures that will propel the growth of India’s fintech segment. Our primary hope revolves around a strategic focus on fostering financial inclusion, particularly in Tier 2, 3, and 4 cities, underpinned by the establishment of a robust trust-based lending ecosystem. We also await initiatives that will standardize lending practices and encourage collaboration between banks, notably Public Sector Banks and fintech firms.

The Budget is expected to highlight the importance of expanding digital public infrastructure, such as Account Aggregator and OCEN, to facilitate broader financial inclusion and unlock more data for intelligent lending practices.

Given the pivotal role of fintechs in driving the start-up ecosystem’s growth in the country, we look forward to a supportive fiscal policy approach that enhances the attractiveness of investments in this segment. Moreover, the Budget could create an enabling environment for sustained innovation and the digital delivery of services by the fintech industry, positioning it for the predicted dominance over traditional bank lending by 2030. Finally, we also anticipate a nuanced, supportive approach towards ESOP taxation and fostering talent retention.”