The future of fintech is vibrant, interconnected, and undeniably human-centric :  Dipali Padia – Director of Business Development at Neokred

CXOToday has engaged in an exclusive interview with Dipali Padia – Director of Business Development at Neokred.

Tell us about your journey into the Fintech space.

My journey into the fintech universe has been nothing short of an adventurous pursuit of dreams and creating advanced fintech-related innovation into ‘Reality’. It began with an innate curiosity to simplify complexities present & simultaneously absent (in some cases) in the current financial systems and a steadfast resolve to create impact.

I was deeply & passionately inspired by my father’s entrepreneurial spirit, whose ethos of ‘Upward & Onwards’ became & still is my mantra. This drive led me to the fintech realm, where I discovered the power of blending technology and finance to solve real-world problems.

Over time, I’ve realized that fintech is more than just numbers and algorithms; it’s a revolution in how the world transacts, empowers, and innovates.

I am fortunate to have found my purpose in leading initiatives that not only address gaps in the market but also redefine possibilities for people and businesses alike.

Tell us more about Neokred and your role.

About Neokred: Neokred was born from a simple yet profound idea: to bridge the gaps in financial ecosystems by ‘creating easy to use & experience’ seamless, innovative solutions that empower businesses and users/individuals alike.

It’s not just a company; it’s a vision- a commitment in reimagining how technology can simplify and enhance financial interactions.

At its core, Neokred is about enabling connectivity, fostering trust, and driving transformation in the swiftest time coupled with accuracy & efficient customer experience.

Birth of my role: As part of this journey, my role is both challenging and deeply fulfilling. I see myself as a steward of innovation and a catalyst for growth, guiding a team that shares an unwavering belief in the power of technology to solve real-world problems.

My responsibilities extend beyond strategy and execution; they encompass fostering a culture where creativity thrives, where every voice matters, and where the collective goal is not just success, but significance.

Key Top Management Skills applied:

Collaboration – closely working with all my vertical teams to design and deliver necessary & customised solutions.

Human-Centric – Whether it’s integrating APIs to enhance customer experiences or

introducing platforms that redefine digital banking, every initiative at Neokred is driven by a desire to make financial systems more accessible, efficient, and inclusive.

Alignment & Shape Shifting – for Neokred, Stakeholders & every Client vision: Together, we are not just building products;

We are shaping an ecosystem that aims to inspire and empower, one connection at a time.

In your opinion, why is it crucial to include women in the Fintech landscape?

Diversity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone of innovation. Women bring unique perspectives, emotional intelligence, patience, warmth and an equally efficient problem-solving approach that fintech desperately needs to tackle multifaceted challenges.

The inclusion of women not only fosters balanced decision-making but also drives the design of financial products that resonate with all demographics, especially underrepresented ones.

Empowering women in fintech also sends a powerful message to society: when we champion inclusivity, we fuel progress across levels & boundaries. By making the industry equitable, we aren’t just innovating finance – we’re reimagining its purpose.

What are the primary challenges that women encounter in today’s workforce, particularly in male-dominated fields such as Fintech, and how can these challenges be addressed?

Imagine standing at the edge of an uncharted ocean, where every wave symbolizes opportunity but also challenge. This is the journey many women embark on in male-dominated fields like fintech.

Biases, limited representation, and the pressures of balancing roles often create obstacles, but these are not insurmountable- they are invitations to rise.

To overcome, we must build strong networks and mentorships that amplify our voices and challenge biases with courage and grace. Representation matters; every woman who ascends strengthens the ladder for others. Inclusive cultures and policies are essential to redefine workplaces where diverse voices lead, innovate, and thrive.

The journey may be daunting, but it’s transformative. Every step we take as women in fintech reshapes the landscape, not just for ourselves but for those who follow.

The destination is a world empowered by our courage, and at & through Neokred, I am honoured to contribute to this change.

Where do you think the Fintech Industry is headed in 2025?

The future of fintech is vibrant, interconnected, and undeniably human-centric. By 2025, we’ll see a deeper integration of AI and blockchain, transforming how payments, lending, and investments are conducted. Open banking will likely become the norm, fostering unprecedented collaboration between traditional banks and fintech startups.

Moreover, financial inclusion will take center stage, with technology breaking down barriers for underserved communities worldwide. Sustainability will also emerge as a focal point, with green finance solutions becoming mainstream. In essence, the industry will evolve not just technologically but ethically, driving economic empowerment globally.

Advice for women who would like to make a career in the Fintech Industry.

Imagine a blank canvas waiting for the boldest strokes of creativity, resilience, and innovation. That’s what fintech is- a field brimming with untapped opportunities, daring ideas, and transformative potential.

To every woman aspiring to make her mark in this space, remember: the world of fintech doesn’t just welcome you; it needs you.

Let me share a story that resonates deeply with me. Early in my journey, I stood in rooms where I was the only woman. At first, I felt the weight of expectations and the echo of my own self-doubt. But I realized that my voice, my perspective, and my unique way of problem-solving weren’t weaknesses- they were my greatest assets. I embraced them, and in doing so, I found not just a seat at the table but also the power to shape the conversation.

Here’s my advice for you:

Dream audaciously – Don’t let the limits of today define the scope of your tomorrow. If there’s an idea burning within you, pursue it relentlessly. Remember, every great innovation started as a “crazy” idea someone dared to believe in.

Build a foundation of expertise – Learn, unlearn, and relearn. Dive deep into technology and finance- become fluent in the language of data, innovation, and impact. The more you know, the more confidence you’ll exude.

Seek mentorship and collaboration – I owe much of my journey to the mentors who believed in me before I believed in myself. Find those who challenge you, inspire you, and cheer for you as you grow.

Own your narrative. Your story- your experiences, struggles, and perspectives- is your superpower. It will guide you in designing solutions that resonate and make a difference.

The canvas is yours- PAINT BOLDLY.

What are your future plans for 2025 for the company?

As we look to 2025, Neokred is set to scale new heights in redefining digital finance. We aim to expand our reach across global markets, introduce groundbreaking financial solutions, and deepen our commitment to sustainability through green fintech initiatives.

Our focus will remain on enhancing customer experience by leveraging AI, blockchain, and big data analytics.

Furthermore, we plan to cultivate a workforce culture that mirrors our innovative spirit, fostering creativity and excellence. For us, the future isn’t just a destination; it’s an exhilarating journey of rewriting possibilities.

What are the most significant trends shaping the Fintech industry today?

In my view, the fintech industry is undergoing a transformation that is both exciting and profoundly impactful. One of the most significant trends is ‘Embedded finance’. It is the integration of financial services into everyday platforms. It’s remarkable how technology is making finance a seamless part of our lives, whether we’re shopping online or managing subscriptions.

Another trend close to my heart is ‘Open Banking’, which fosters collaboration between fintechs and traditional institutions, enabling personalized and innovative customer solutions. ‘Green fintech’ is also emerging as a force, where sustainability meets finance, creating products that not only grow economies but protect our planet.

But what excites me most is the focus on ‘Financial inclusion’. We’re seeing fintech solutions reach underserved populations, empowering them to participate in the economy. Together, these trends are shaping a future where financial services are not only efficient but also equitable and inclusive.

How do you think blockchain technology will impact the Fintech industry in the next 5 years?

Blockchain, to me, is the foundation of a new trust economy. Over the next five years, its impact on fintech will be transformative.

Decentralized finance (DeFi) will continue to grow, offering transparent and secure alternatives to traditional financial services. This means access to finance without intermediaries, particularly for underserved communities.

Cross-border payments are another area where blockchain will revolutionize fintech. By cutting through inefficiencies, it can make global transactions faster and more cost-effective.

I also believe that smart contracts will redefine processes like lending and insurance by automating them with precision and transparency.

Blockchain’s greatest promise lies in its ability to democratize access to financial services while maintaining unparalleled security. It’s not just a technology- it’s a movement that aligns perfectly with the ethos of fintech: to empower and include.

What role do you think artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) will play in Fintech?

AI and ML are already transforming fintech, and their role will only deepen in the coming years. For me, the most exciting part is how these technologies enable personalized experiences.

Imagine a world where financial products adapt to your life, understanding your needs better than ever before.

In areas like risk assessment, AI is a game-changer. By analyzing non-traditional data, it makes credit accessible to those who were previously overlooked.

Fraud prevention is another critical area- AI detects anomalies in real-time, staying one step ahead of cyber threats.

For fintech companies like Neokred, AI and ML represent more than efficiency; they symbolize the ability to connect with people meaningfully, offering solutions that are smarter, faster, and tailored to their unique journeys.

What are the key regulatory challenges facing Fintech companies in emerging markets?

Operating in emerging markets presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to regulation.

One of the biggest hurdles is regulatory uncertainty. Laws around digital finance are often evolving, leaving fintech companies navigating gray areas.

Another challenge is compliance costs, which can be prohibitive for smaller startups. Emerging markets also deal with fragmented regulations, making it difficult to scale across borders.

And, of course, there’s the issue of data privacy – striking a balance between innovation and protecting customer information.

The solution lies in collaboration. Regulatory sandboxes are a step in the right direction, allowing fintechs to innovate while adhering to guidelines.

At Neokred, we see regulation not as a barrier but as an opportunity to build trust and ensure long-term sustainability in the markets we serve.

What are the key challenges facing digital payment providers in terms of security and fraud prevention?

One challenge we face is the constant evolution of fraud tactics – Cybercriminals are always finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities, requiring us to stay ahead with advanced technologies.

Another concern is data breaches, which can shake customer confidence. With instant payments becoming the norm, the need for real-time threat detection has never been greater.

Lastly, there’s the human factor- many breaches stem from social engineering attacks, which highlight the importance of user education.

At Neokred, we prioritize robust encryption, AI-powered fraud detection, and proactive customer education. It’s not just about protecting transactions; it’s about building an ecosystem where trust is paramount and security is non-negotiable.

What are the key challenges facing Fintech companies in terms of reaching and serving low-income populations?

Reaching low-income populations is both a challenge and a calling for fintech. The digital divide remains a significant barrier- many underserved communities lack access to smartphones or reliable internet.

Financial literacy is another challenge; without understanding the basics, adopting digital solutions can feel overwhelming.

Cost is also a factor. Solutions need to be affordable, with transparent pricing that builds trust. Finally, many people in these populations have been excluded from formal finance for so long that trust in financial systems needs to be rebuilt.

At Neokred, we approach this with empathy – By designing intuitive and low-cost solutions, we aim to meet people where they are. It’s about creating financial solutions that are as inclusive as they are innovative, ensuring no one is left behind in this digital revolution.

Can you discuss the role of Fintech in promoting women’s economic empowerment?

Fintech has the remarkable ability to transform lives, and for women, it is a gateway to true economic independence. When I look at how far we’ve come, I see fintech as more than a tool – it’s a movement that breaks barriers and creates opportunities where none existed before.

Imagine a woman in a rural area with limited access to traditional banks. Through digital platforms, she can now secure a microloan to start a business, build savings, or provide for her family. This isn’t just access; it’s empowerment.

Fintech enables women to step into the economic landscape confidently, armed with the knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions.

In my journey, I’ve witnessed how fintech solutions can unlock potential—whether it’s through digital wallets, microfinance platforms, or financial literacy programs.

It’s not about transactions; it’s about transformation. Fintech is paving the way for women to not only participate in the economy but thrive in it, redefining their futures and those of their communities.

Can you explain the concept of co-creation in Fintech partnerships?

Co-creation in fintech is about synergy – where diverse minds and expertise come together to craft solutions that resonate deeply with the people they serve. At Neokred, this principle is at the heart of what we do. I believe innovation doesn’t happen in isolation; it flourishes when we collaborate, listen, and build together.

Take the example of designing an API for a corporate client. It’s not just about delivering technology- it’s about understanding their unique challenges and aspirations. By co-creating with our partners, we’re able to develop solutions that are not only innovative but transformative. It’s this collaborative spirit that allows fintech to remain agile and relevant in a rapidly evolving world.

Co-creation reminds me that no single perspective has all the answers. By bringing together stakeholders—banks, corporates, startups, and even end-users—we create a shared vision that delivers real value. It’s not just about solutions; it’s about building ecosystems of trust and mutual growth.

Can you discuss the role of partnerships in promoting financial inclusion?

In the mission to drive financial inclusion, partnerships are the foundation upon which meaningful change is built. No single entity can address the diverse challenges of underserved populations. It’s through collaboration that we unlock the potential to make finance accessible to all.

At Neokred, we’ve embraced partnerships as a way to expand impact. By working with banks, we extend services to those excluded from traditional systems. Through collaborations with corporations, we provide tools that promote financial wellness for employees. And by engaging with regulators, we ensure our innovations are both inclusive and ethical.

The beauty of partnerships lies in their ability to harness collective strengths. A fintech’s innovation merges with a bank’s infrastructure or an NGO’s grassroots reach to create powerful solutions.

Together, we’re not just building financial systems; we’re creating pathways for people to participate in the economy, fostering independence and brighter futures for millions.

In this collaborative journey, I’ve realized that partnerships are not just agreements – they are commitments to a shared purpose. Through them, we move closer to a world where financial inclusion is not an aspiration but a reality.