Telecom giant Bharti Airtel has announced a strategic partnership with Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) Bajaj Finance to create a comprehensive digital platform for financial services. This collaboration aims to revolutionize the last-mile delivery of financial services while driving digital inclusion across India.
Combining Strengths for Greater Reach
The partnership merges Airtel’s customer base of 370 million, a robust 1.2 million distribution network, and Bajaj Finance’s extensive portfolio of 27 product lines with a wide-reaching presence through 5,000 branches and 70,000 field agents.
Initially, Bajaj Finance’s financial products will be integrated into the Airtel Thanks App, ensuring a seamless and secure customer experience. Over time, these services will also be accessible through Airtel’s nationwide network of retail stores. The joint digital assets of the two companies aim to enhance penetration of financial services, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
Leaders Speak on the Collaboration
Gopal Vittal, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Bharti Airtel, emphasized the potential of this partnership, stating:
“The combined reach and distribution strength of Airtel and Bajaj Finance will serve as a cornerstone for this collaboration. We are building Airtel Finance as a strategic asset for the group and aim to become a one-stop shop for all financial needs.”
Echoing this sentiment, Rajeev Jain, Managing Director of Bajaj Finance, added:
“This partnership leverages India’s digital infrastructure to foster inclusive growth. Together, we aim to provide financial services to millions, even in remote areas, while using AI to enhance efficiency and customer experiences.”
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Expanded Offerings Through Airtel Thanks App
Currently, two Bajaj Finance products—Gold Loan and Business Loan—are available on the Airtel Thanks App. By March 2025, four products, including the co-branded Airtel-Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card and Personal Loan, will be introduced. By the end of the year, Airtel plans to offer nearly 10 Bajaj Finance products through its platform.
Airtel customers will soon be able to:
- Apply for the Airtel-Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card via the Airtel Thanks App and stores.
- Secure gold loans, empowering new-to-credit customers and integrating them into the formal financial system.
Commitment to Compliance and Customer Service
The partnership prioritizes robust regulatory compliance, data privacy, and security, ensuring a seamless and trustworthy customer experience. Both companies are committed to leveraging their combined expertise to make financial services more accessible and inclusive.
This strategic collaboration between Bharti Airtel and Bajaj Finance underscores the growing synergy between telecom and financial services sectors, aiming to redefine financial inclusion in India.
