19 FINANCEOUTLOOKINDIAAUGUST, 2025India's financial ecosystem. While the digital payment ecosystem in India has been growing rapidly, so have fraud cases; the RBI's H1FY25 report highlighted a 27 percent rise in digital fraud cases in 2024. The RBI has been consistent in enhancing digital trust in the financial sector, and now, with the renewed vigorous approach of the RBI's new governor, the industry will be further encouraged to conduct business in a compliant, secure, and sustainable manner. The launch of a special internet domain, bank.in, is a significant step by the RBI to reduce cybersecurity threats and malicious activities, though clear instructions on the domain are awaited. However, this initiative will empower banks to streamline and secure their financial services, enhancing digital trust in the industry. Furthermore, the RBI plans to launch an exclusive domain for non-banking entities ­ fin.in, showcasing the RBI's approach to providing a robust and secure financial ecosystem to the consumer.Samir Bhandari, Co-Founder, CFO at hBitsThe RBI's decision to cut the repo rate by 25 bps to 6.25 percent for the first time in 5 years underscores its commitment to financial stability while balancing inflation and growth. This is particularly significant for commercial real estate investors, as it ensures access to capital at predictable costs, allowing for long-term strategic investments in premium assets. With inflationary pressures moderating and liquidity remaining steady, investor confidence in structured real estate investments, including fractional ownership, is expected to strengthen. At hBits, we see this as a positive shift, as more institutional and retail investors look for stable, inflation-hedged assets with strong rental yields. Given the global economic uncertainties, commercial real estate remains a resilient and income-generating asset class, and the RBI's policy direction will play a key role in shaping future investment trends in this space.Viram Shah, Founder & CEO, Vested FinanceRBI decision to cut rates is in line with expectations. The dovish stance follows most global major central banks that have also cut rates or have shown an indication to do so. The rate cut will likely further narrow the US-India bond yield spread that is already at 20-year low, making the US bonds more attractive for foreign investors. This may lead to more outflows in coming months leading to investments into US bonds and stock markets. A weak rupee also makes a case for investing in US markets as investors will benefit from a strong dollar. At the time the Indian market has been struggling, investors should consider investing in global equities, especially US-listed, as they may not just provide alpha but also help diversify their portfolio. Domestic-focused stocks in the US, such as utilities, steelmakers, etc. look attractive.Sahil Lakshmanan, Chief Business Officer, CarePal MoneyThe RBI's decision to cut the repo rate to 6.25 percent is a strategic move to stimulate economic growth while inflation remains under control. With the MPC noting that inflation is expected to moderate in FY26, this rate cut signals confidence in price stability, giving room for policy easing. For borrowers, lower EMIs on loans could improve affordability and boost consumption. However, the market response has been measured so far, with the Indian rupee remaining largely unchanged against the U.S. dollar. This suggests that global factors and liquidity conditions will play a crucial role in determining the long-term impact of this decision. With the policy stance remaining `neutral,' the RBI is maintaining flexibility, indicating that future rate actions will depend on economic data. The key focus now will be on how effectively banks transmit this cut and whether it translates into stronger credit demand and sustained economic momentum.Ankur Maheshwari, CFO, FreoThe RBI's decision to reduce the repo rate to 6.25 percent is a welcome move, especially as it's the first cut post-pandemic. This decision has far-reaching benefits--lower borrowing costs will encourage more individuals to invest in homes, particularly those who were previously on the fence due to rising construction costs. Additionally, with tax relief measures announced in Budget 2025, people will have more disposable income, making access to credit easier. While borrowing becomes more affordable, attractive fixed deposit rates will continue to ensure that savers have secure and rewarding investment options. As a fintech, we see this as a balanced move that supports both borrowers and savers, fostering overall financial growth.Avinash Rao, Founder, Alt DRXThe RBI governor's latest announcement on Rate Cuts should be seen in conjunction with the FM's announcement on changes in the IT Act and rationalization of Tax Slabs. Both these steps will act as catalysts, fuelling economic growth & optimism in the economy. Such steps augur well not just for demands for New Homes but also help in building a sense of optimism & positivity in the larger population. I am quite positive that this is the first of many similar steps that the government will be taking to provide the necessary growth impetus required to build Viksit Bharat.Yashwant Lodha, Co-Founder, PayNearbyIndia is making rapid strides towards becoming a digital payments powerhouse and with this, the RBI's focused measures to strengthen digital security and enhance user protection are timely and essential. The introduction of an exclusive `fin.in' domain for financial institutions and
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