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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has urged the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to hold monthly meetings with startup and fintech companies to address their concerns, according to officials familiar with the matter. The suggestion was put forth during a meeting attended by top executives of approximately 50 firms, including prominent names like Razorpay, CRED, and venture capital firm PeakXV.

The proposed monthly meetings, conducted virtually, aim to provide a platform for startups and fintech firms to voice their concerns and seek resolutions directly from the RBI. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to fostering a conducive environment for innovation and growth within the startup and fintech ecosystem.

During the meeting, no specific anxieties or concerns related to Paytm were expressed by the startup founders and fintech entities. This comes amidst recent regulatory actions by the RBI against Paytm Payments Bank, which have heightened scrutiny over regulatory compliance within the fintech industry.

Key government officials, including Financial Services Secretary Vivek Joshi, DPIIT Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, and MeitY Secretary S Krishnan, were present alongside RBI Deputy Governor T Rabi Sankar. The presence of representatives from State Bank of India (SBI), NPCI, and other regulatory bodies underscores the collaborative effort to address industry concerns and streamline regulatory processes.

Cybersecurity emerged as a significant area of concern raised by startups, prompting discussions on the need for proactive measures to combat fraud. Additionally, startups and fintech entities lauded the effectiveness of processes within GIFT City, highlighting its role as a hub for innovation and financial services.

The recent regulatory actions against Paytm Payments Bank, including restrictions on accepting new deposits and top-ups, have underscored the importance of regulatory compliance within the fintech sector. The RBI's directive to NPCI to explore options for migrating users from Paytm Payments Bank to other banks reflects ongoing efforts to ensure customer protection and regulatory adherence.

As the fintech landscape continues to evolve, ongoing dialogue and collaboration between regulators, government agencies, and industry stakeholders are essential to address emerging challenges and drive sustainable growth. The proposed monthly meetings with the RBI represent a proactive step towards fostering a robust and inclusive regulatory framework that supports innovation while safeguarding consumer interests.