Mumbai, October 9, 2025 — Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das addressed key stakeholders in the financial technology sector today, outlining five strategic insights aimed at guiding the future of fintech innovation and regulation in India. Speaking at the Global Fintech Summit 2025, Das emphasized the need for responsible innovation, financial inclusion, and systemic stability as the sector continues to evolve rapidly.
1. Responsible Innovation:
Governor Das urged fintech companies to prioritize ethical and secure innovation. He emphasized that while technology can transform financial services, it must be deployed with safeguards to protect consumer interests and data privacy. “Innovation must not come at the cost of trust,” he stated.
2. Financial Inclusion as a Core Goal:
Das highlighted the role of fintechs in bridging gaps in access to financial services, especially in rural and underserved regions. He encouraged startups to design products that cater to diverse demographics and promote inclusive growth.
3. Regulatory Collaboration:
The Governor called for proactive engagement between fintechs and regulators. He stressed that regulatory frameworks should evolve in tandem with technological advancements, and that open dialogue can help balance innovation with risk management.
4. Cybersecurity and Operational Resilience:
With increasing digitization, Das underscored the importance of robust cybersecurity protocols and operational resilience. He advised fintechs to invest in secure infrastructure and conduct regular stress tests to ensure continuity during disruptions.
5. Sustainable Business Models:
Finally, Das cautioned against unsustainable growth driven by aggressive customer acquisition or unchecked lending. He advocated for long-term viability, prudent risk assessment, and transparent governance practices.
The Governor’s remarks come at a time when India’s fintech sector is witnessing exponential growth, with over 10,000 startups contributing to digital payments, lending, wealth management, and insurtech. His address was widely seen as a call to align innovation with public interest and financial stability.
