BFSI Is Madly Innovative (Contrary to What One Might Think)

A Personal Reckoning with BFSI Innovation

A few months ago, in a room full of startup founders and tech investors, someone casually said, "There's no real innovation in BFSI beyond the ATM." I bit my tongue.

Because on the surface, it feels true. What’s visible is cosmetic: ATM Machines, QR codes. UPI. Robo-advisors. Smooth onboarding.

But underneath, I’ve seen a radically different story. One that’s layered, sophisticated, and—in many ways—more transformative than most consumer tech plays. Having spent two decades navigating Global banking and fintech, I’ve learned this:

BFSI isn’t where innovation is absent. It’s where it’s hardest to see.