fintech

fintech startup Parker, known for its corporate credit cards and banking services for e-commerce businesses, has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Despite raising over $200 million, the company reportedly shut down abruptly after acquisition talks failed. This leaves its small business customers in a difficult situation regarding access to funds.

Four major investors, including Peak XV and Sequoia, are selling a 4.3% stake in fintech firm Groww, valued at approximately $500 million. This move comes as the lock-in period for pre-IPO shareholders is set to expire soon, potentially releasing shares worth over Rs 81,000 crore into the market.

US-based Silicon Road Ventures and veteran banker Ajay Mahajan have launched a Rs 150 crore fund targeting startups in agentic AI for commerce and retail. The Sebi-registered fund will back early-stage companies in e-commerce, supply chain, fintech, and retail operations, focusing on automated decision-making solutions rather than capital-intensive ventures.

SoftBank's Indian investments took a hit in the January-March quarter, with its portfolio losing over $600 million. Major companies like Swiggy and Ola Electric saw value dips, though Lenskart provided a small gain. This comes as many of SoftBank's recent Indian IPOs face investor concerns about profitability and growth.

IGNOU’s Campus Placement Cell and IGNOU Regional Centre Mumbai will organise a mega placement drive in Mumbai on May 16, 2026, offering more than 250 vacancies across manufacturing, e-commerce, healthcare, fintech, logistics, banking and HR sectors. Companies including Blinkit, HDB Financial Services, Insta Courier and ImpactGuru will participate. Undergraduate, postgraduate and diploma students, along with alumni and experienced candidates, are eligible to apply. Selected candidates may receive salaries between Rs 25,000 and Rs 45,000 per month.

The UAE has become the first country to grant a Stored Value Facilities (SVF) license to a cryptocurrency platform, allowing regulated digital asset payments. This landmark approval enables UAE residents to pay government fees using cryptocurrencies, integrating virtual asset payments into the nation's regulated financial system and bolstering its digital economy.

Aiza Usman, an AI Engineer at Anthropic, shares her journey into artificial intelligence. She moved from Pakistan to the US for studies, focusing on generative models and large language systems. Usman gained practical experience at a fintech startup before joining Anthropic. She highlights the company's commitment to responsible AI development.

Bihar's government has adopted an ambitious Rs 72,901 crore borrowing strategy dedicated to enhancing development and streamlining administrative functions. This includes a groundbreaking initiative in collaboration with Singapore's GFTN to foster an AI ecosystem, set to empower thousands through training and bolster the startup landscape.

Says AP Will Unveil Its Own Action Plan In 2 Days

Investors from Tier-2 & -3 cities embrace stocks and mutual funds, but gaps in advisory may leave many vulnerable