From scale to substance: How Fintech shaped 2025 & what 2026 holds next

In 2025, fintech in India and beyond moved decisively from rapid experimentation to real-world impact. From UPI-driven payment maturity and embedded finance becoming mainstream, to tighter regulation bringing clarity and confidence, the sector began proving its long-term value to consumers, businesses, and governments alike. As we head into 2026, fintech’s role is set to deepen further, shifting focus from sheer growth to sustainable innovation, trusted infrastructure, and intelligent financial services powered by AI, data, and compliance-by-design.

The Tech Panda asked industry experts how fintech contributed to the ecosystem in 2025 and what we can expect in 2026.

Bhavin Patel, Co-Founder & CEO, Vartis Platforms & LenDenClub

2025 has marked a year of reset for the digital lending ecosystem. After two years of intense regulatory shifts, the industry has now reached a point of clarity, stability, and shared understanding with regulators. This has been a year of adapting, rebuilding, and ...