India has historically been an economy driven by cash. With unique population demographics and modest literacy levels, it is a difficult market to “digitalise”. However, over the past decade, urban India has seen a significant rise in the use of pre-paid cards, mobile banking, internet wallets and e-payment instruments, in their various guises. They have created a relevant market of their own.

However, in the past few months, and as a consequence of the recent demonetisation, India has been witnessing a new wave of financial technology, with the introduction of innovative products and a wider customer base. Increased penetration has also compelled both the regulators and government to renew their focus on this migration to a “cashless” society. Consequently, the regulatory framework governing e-commerce and financial technology has seen various amendments recently.

Payment Systems in India

In India, the payment and settlement systems are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), which exercises oversight over this market. Payment systems are required to obtain authorisation from the RBI to enable payment between a payer and a beneficiary; and while effecting such payment, they should provide payment, clearing and/or settlement services. Set out below are the key payment systems covered under the regulatory framework.Continue Reading Payment Systems – The Digitalisation of Financial Services and its Future