The fintech industry, a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector at the intersection of finance and technology, is witnessing a transformative shift with an increasing number of women making significant contributions. Traditionally dominated by men, the finance and technology sectors have seen a gradual but impactful influx of women professionals who are not only challenging stereotypes but also driving innovation and breaking barriers in the world of fintech.
According to a report by Live Mint, India is the leading nation in adopting financial technology at 87% – higher than the global average rate of 64%. “Equity funding into Indian Fintech has grown at a CAGR of 26% over the last four years, but more rapidly so from 2020 onwards, according to central government data. In 2021, the country’s fintech sector received funding worth $9.9 billion, led by the payments segment–having 53% of the share,” the report stated.
One of the most noticeable trends in the fintech landscape is the rise of women in leadership roles. From chief executive officers to founders and chief technology officers, women are stepping into key positions and reshaping the industry’s leadership dynamics. Here are some of the prominent women leaders in the fintech industry, transforming finance.
Suja Pramod: The Head of Fidelity Assets India is a senior professional with more than 25 years of technology delivery, agile transformation, change management and talent management experience across IT Services and BFSI GICs in India supporting global businesses across India, UK, Europe and the US.
Hardika Shah: The founder and CEO of Kirana Capital, a MSME fintech, is an MBA from a joint program with Columbia Business School (Columbia University) and Haas School of Business (UC Berkeley). Notably, Kinara capital is ranked among ‘Top High-Growth Companies in Asia-Pacific’ by The Financial Times and as ‘India’s Growth Champions’ by the Economic Times.
Swati Bhargava: The Co-founder of Cashkaro and EarnKaro, is among the few women entrepreneurs to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss India’s startup ecosystem. She was awarded India’s first Digital Women Award for the best service offering company in the ecommerce industry.
Nupur Gupta: She is the Co-founder at NIRA, a consumer finance company that offers small ticket loans to working Indians on low incomes. Prior to NIRA, she worked with Goldman Sachs as the Vice President.
Paroma Chatterjee: She is the CEO at Revolut India, a digital banking application (India business). Prior to this she has also worked for Lendingkart, Via.com, Flipkart, among others.
Women in fintech are not only breaking barriers but also reshaping the industry’s future. As trailblazers, innovators, and leaders, they bring diverse perspectives, foster inclusion, and drive meaningful change. The increasing presence of women in fintech is not just a matter of representation; it is a testament to the industry’s evolution toward a more inclusive, innovative, and equitable future.