Archive: September 30, 2025

Wonder Electricals Makes Strategic Move into PCB Manufacturing; BLDC Segment Set to Surge

Wonder Electricals Ltd

New Delhi, September 30, 2025: Wonder Electricals Ltd., a trusted name in the electrical industry, has successfully completed the formalities for setting up a new entity, Integrated Motion & Control LLP, focused on PCB manufacturing. Wonder Electricals will hold 51% equity in this joint venture.

The company has confirmed that machinery installation will be completed by end of October 2025, with trials scheduled in November–December 2025. Full-scale commercial production is expected to begin in the 4th quarter. A state-of-the-art factory is also under construction to support this expansion.

Future Growth Outlook

With this new initiative, Wonder Electricals aims to deliver innovative, reliable, andcist effective fan compliant solutions. The unit will be capable of offering end-to-end hardware and software solutions with strong R&D support.

Industry experts believe that this expansion into PCB manufacturing will significantly enhance the company’s product portfolio and profitability. While the initial estimate suggests an accelerated growth in profits, the company is hopeful that in the longer term it can achieve its targets driven by strong domestic demand and global opportunities.

Product Portfolio

The first phase of production will focus on BLDC Motor Controllers for consumer and industrial applications, including:

  • BLDC Controller for Ceiling Fans
  • BLDC Controller for Inverter Fans
  • BLDC Controller with Light for Ceiling Fans
  • BLDC Controller for Table & Wall Fans
  • BLDC Controller for Induction Fans
  • BLDC Controller for Cooler Motors
  • BLDC Controller for Industrial Circulators

Strategic Advantage

Backed by a highly skilled and experienced team, this new venture positions Wonder Electricals to capture the growing demand for energy-efficient and sustainable power solutions both in India and international markets.

Financial Inclusion Saturation Campaign at Poigaikaraipatti village, Madurai District.

As part of the ongoing three-month saturation campaign for Financial Inclusion (FI) Schemes launched by the Department of Financial Services, Government of India, a special Gram Panchayat-level camp was organized on 28.09.2025 at Poigaikaraipatti village, Madurai District.

The program was graced by the esteemed presence of Shri Swaminathan J, Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India, who presided over the event. Other distinguished dignitaries who participated included Thiru K.J. Praveen Kumar, IAS, District Collector, Madurai; Shri Joydeep Dutta Roy, Chairman, SLBC Tamil Nadu & Executive Director, Indian Overseas Bank; Shri Ashutosh Choudhury, Executive Director, Indian Bank; Shri Shiva Om Dikshit, Deputy Managing Director , State Bank of India; Smt. Uma Sankar, Regional Director, RBI; Shri R Anand, Chief General Manager, NABARD,; Smt. Vijaya N, Convenor, SLBC, Tamil Nadu & GM IOB, CGM SBI, Chairman, Tamil Nadu Grama Bank; Executive Director, Tamilnadu Mercantile Bank; General Managers, Senior executives, LDMs from various banks.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 1,800 customers, including members of Self-Help Groups, farmers, women, and youth from the local community.

Highlights of the program included:

A skit plays by the Centre for Financial Literacy (CFL), Trichy, aimed at creating awareness on financial inclusion schemes, digital safety, and grievance redressal mechanisms.

On-stage Re-KYC activity, showcasing the ease of banking procedures and customer-friendly initiatives.

Distribution of Jan Suraksha claim settlements to eligible beneficiaries, underlining the social security benefits extended through FI schemes.

The campaign emphasized the importance of flagship FI schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), and Atal Pension Yojana (APY), while spreading awareness on unclaimed deposits and measures to prevent digital frauds.

Speaking on the occasion, the dignitaries highlighted the pivotal role of financial inclusion in empowering rural communities, promoting savings, providing social security, and ensuring access to credit. They urged the public to actively avail the benefits of government-sponsored schemes and digital banking facilities.

The program concluded with an assurance from the banks and government agencies to continue their concerted efforts towards achieving saturation of FI schemes across Tamil Nadu, thereby contributing to inclusive and sustainable growth.

U.S. Polo Assn. Expands Footprint with a New Store in Jammu

Jammu, 29 September 2025 – U.S. Polo Assn., India’s leading casualwear brand and the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), proudly opens its first-ever store in Jammu at Apsara Road, one of the city’s prime shopping destinations. Spanning 1,809 sq. ft. across two floors, this marks Jammu’s debut new-gen retail identity store, designed to offer consumers an elevated, contemporary shopping experience with the brand’s latest global store format.

USPA FACADE

The Jammu store features striking design highlights, including a grand polo wall that underscores U.S. Polo Assn.’s sporty and classic heritage. Dedicated exclusively to Menswear, the store presents a wide selection of collections for style-conscious consumers who value authenticity, comfort, and global appeal.

Timed with the season, the store showcases the brand’s Autumn/Winter 2025 Menswear collection, which includes Classic Americana, Varsity-inspired looks, relaxed fits, and signature denim – all crafted to reflect the brand’s blend of timeless style and modern versatility.

Speaking on the launch, Amitabh Suri, Chief Executive Officer, U.S. Polo Assn. India, said, “We are excited to bring our first new store to Jammu, a market that holds immense potential for the brand. Located on Apsara Road, this store highlights our refreshed retail concept through its striking façade, modern interiors, and the latest Autumn/Winter collection. With this launch, we continue to expand our footprint and deliver to consumers in Jammu an enhanced way to experience the classic, sporty, and global essence of U.S. Polo Assn. – a brand that continues to tell ‘The Greatest Story of Sports & Fashion.’”

Address: No 283B, Ground & Mezzanine Floor, Apsara Road, Gole Market, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu – 180004

Jind Mahia Lights Up Diwali with Heritage-Inspired Festive Wear

New Delhi, 29 September 2025: As the festival of lights approaches, Jind Mahia unveils its latest collection of occasion-wear, rooted in Punjabi culture and inspired by traditional festive celebrations. Known for blending heritage craftsmanship with contemporary design, the brand offers pieces that celebrate vibrance, joy, and elegance.

The collection features lehengas, suits, dupattas, and co-ordinated festive ensembles adorned with rich embroidery, vibrant hues, and intricate detailing. Each creation is designed to capture the spirit of celebration, making them perfect not only for Diwali pujas and family gatherings but also as thoughtful, meaningful gifts.

“Diwali is a time for joy, warmth, and coming together,” said Kamiya Chauhan, Director of Jind Mahia. “Our collection reflects these values, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern sensibilities to create pieces that resonate with today’s festive celebrations.”

Available for purchase online at www.jindmahia.com, Jind Mahia’s festive collection is positioned as an elegant choice for anyone looking to celebrate the season with style and cultural richness.

Hindware Unveils ‘Designed For Sukoon’, Its New Brand Positioning

 29th September 2025: Hindware, India’s leading bathware, tiles, and consumer appliances brand, introduced its new brand positioning, ‘Designed for Sukoon’. Under this positioning, the company has launched an integrated brand campaign that reimagines homes as sanctuaries going beyond functionality to offer true wellbeing and comfort. . Conceptualised and created by MullenLowe Lintas Group, the campaign reflects Hindware’s brand promise of creating a warm and inviting world for consumers, filled with Calm, Care, Comfort, Love & Playfulness, ensuring that Hindware is not just a brand in their home, but an integral part of their busy lives.

Rooted in the brand’s philosophy of creating deep emotional connect with consumers, the campaign strikes an emotional chord with consumers across India and across age brackets. Hindware’s ‘Designed for Sukoon’ thought comes alive through innovations like a Multifunction Shower with Thermostat that mimics monsoon rain, Smart WC with warm seat as comforting as a winter blanket, splash-free faucets, washbasins in vibrant colours, IoT Chimney with Maxx Silence Technology as a quiet partner in moments of love, and premium tiles that unite beauty with durability, together making a house, your home.

Mr. Shashvat Somany, Head of Strategy, Somany Impresa Group and Non-Executive Non‑Independent Director, Hindware Limited added, “For over six decades, Hindware has been synonymous with innovation, quality, and trust. With Hindware ‘Designed for Sukoon’ campaign, we are entering an exciting new chapter that unifies our entire portfolio of Bathware, Tiles, and Kitchen appliances under one cohesive brand positioning. This campaign is a celebration of everything Hindware stands for — blending design, technology, and emotion to transform every home into a sanctuary of peace and comfort.”

Speaking on the campaign, Mr. Nirupam Sahay, CEO, Hindware Limited, said, “At Hindware, our constant endeavour is to move beyond functionality and create solutions that truly enrich everyday living. With Hindware ‘Designed for Sukoon’, we are showcasing how innovation and design excellence come together across our portfolio of Bathware, Tiles and Consumer Appliances to transform a house into a home that nurtures peace, comfort, and care, and provides precious moments of Sukoon. This campaign reflects our commitment to staying closely connected with our customers and anticipating their evolving needs.”

Ms. Arunima Yadav, Head of Marketing, Hindware Limited. added, “Through Hindware Designed for Sukoon, we are honouring our brand’s legacy of trust and deep emotional connect with our consumers, while speaking to today’s consumers with fresh emotional storytelling. The campaign captures endearing moments and varied emotions that highlight aspirations for a premium lifestyle and the comfort of a home that resonates across generations.”

Bringing the vision to life, Ram Cobain, CCO, Mullen Lintas, shared,“Technology can often feel cold. But done right, it can be warm and human. ‘Sukoon’ is an onomatopoeic word—it sounds like what it describes. This transcendental feeling of knowing that all is right with the world is our creative soul. More than a campaign, ‘Sukoon’ is a design philosophy present across every Hindware product and experience.”

The Designed for Sukoon campaign spans Television (DTH & Connected TV), OTT, Digital, Print, Cinema, OOH (Airport), and Social Media platforms. Its reach is amplified through social media activations, and influencer collaborations.Link to TVC: https://youtu.be/HNudhbfniec?si=HZ3C9kbbtFxwN821

CashKaro Drives Rs.1,100 Cr Sales This Navratri Season with 30 Cr Clicks

New Delhi, September 29, 2025: India’s festive shopping season has kicked off on a record-breaking note, with CashKaro at the heart of the action. Since the start of the navratri, CashKaro users have fueled over ₹1100 Cr in GMV, a 40% jump compared to last year, and generated 300 million visits to partner sites, reinforcing its position as India’s leading festive traffic engine.

Blockbuster sales across Amazon, Flipkart, and Myntra have powered this surge, with mobiles, electronics gadgets including headphones and fashion emerging as the season’s top-performing product categories.

CashKaro users are shopping across both high-value categories and everyday essentials this festive season, with mobiles, TVs, and laptops dominating demand while large appliances, fashion, beauty, and wearables also see strong traction. Premium tech and lifestyle products like the Apple iPad 2025, Sony PlayStation 5, Samsung LED TVs, and Galaxy Fit3 wearables are in high demand, even as daily-use favorites such as Nivea skincare combos, Amul Ghee, Philips trimmers, JBL earphones, cashews, and boAt powerbanks sell in massive volumes reflecting how festive shopping is blending indulgence with practicality.

CashKaro’s data highlights the evolving shopping landscape across India, where metro cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad are leading demand for fashion, beauty, and premium tech, while Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities such as Karnal, Patna, Sonipat, and Ahmedabad are driving strong growth in mobiles, electronics, and appliances.

This Metro vs. Bharat split reveals that metros dominate in premium and fashion, while Bharat powers growth in electronics and appliances. By combining value for customers with volume for brands through its real cashback model, CashKaro has positioned itself as the launchpad for India’s festive shopping season, influencing not just transactions but overall shopping behavior across the country.

Talking about the Navratri sales and the season’s leading product trends, Rohan Bhargava, Co-Founder, CashKaro & EarnKaro, said, “At CashKaro, our first priority has always been to drive measurable growth for our partner brands. By channeling over 300 million visits since the start of navratri we’re ensuring that our partners don’t just see traffic, but also real conversions and GMV at scale which means better ROI than Google and Meta. This sale season proves how our model is fueling rapid, sustainable growth for India’s leading e-commerce platforms.”

Talking about the Navratri sales and the season’s leading product trends, Swati Bhargava, Co-Founder, CashKaro & EarnKaro, said, “This Navratri festive season has been one of the strongest ever for CashKaro. Crossing ₹1,100 crore GMV since the start of navratri highlights the scale and trust we’ve built with over 25 million users. As we grow deeper into both metros and smaller towns, it’s exciting to see how CashKaro is shaping the way India shops deliver savings for customers and massive value for brands.”

ZEISS India, in collaboration with RARA ÓPŦK, inaugurates 5th ZEISS VISION CENTER in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, 29th September 2025: ZEISS, a global pioneer in optics and optoelectronics with a legacy spanning over 178 years, in partnership with RARA ÓPŦK, is proud to announce the opening of its 5th ZEISS VISION CENTER in Bengaluru. This new launch reinforces ZEISS India’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge, premium eye-care solutions to communities in and around the Whitefield–Hoskote which is towards the east region of Bengaluru.

ZEISS India, in collaboration with RARA ÓPŦK, inaugurates 5th ZEISS VISION CENTER in Bengaluru

Situated at Essensai 067 on Whitefield–Hoskote Road, Ardendale, Kannamangala, Bengaluru the ZEISS VISION CENTER by RARA ÓPŦK spans 1000 sq. ft. and is built to offer consumers a truly state-of-the-art eyewear experience. The center presents a curated selection of premium frames and is equipped with advanced vision care technologies, including the ZEISS VISUFIT 1000 for precise 3D digital centration and the ZEISS VISUCORE 500 for quick and accurate eye checkups. These innovations enable the expert team to deliver personalized lens solutions tailored to each individual’s needs.

At the inauguration, Mr. Alok Kothari, Legacy Founder, BITS Pilani Endowment Fund & Founding Member, RARA OPTK, said, “Raising awareness about the importance of eye care is essential in today’s fast-paced world. Partnering with ZEISS to launch this VISION CENTER in this part of the city is a privilege, as it allows us to bring world-class innovation and precision eye care closer to the community. ZEISS has always been synonymous with accuracy and trust, and together we are confident this initiative will make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”

Mr. Rohan Paul, Business Head, India, and Neighboring Markets – Vision Care, ZEISS India, said, “The launch of our 5th ZEISS VISION CENTER in towards the east of Bengaluru marks an important milestone for us. It brings together ZEISS’s cutting-edge optical technology with personalized consultations and premium eyewear choices. We are delighted to offer the residents towards east of Bengaluru superior vision solutions and distinctive style, setting a new benchmark in eye care. With this center, we aim to make advanced vision care more accessible and raise awareness on the importance of regular eye checkups. This expansion is a reflection of our commitment to delivering precision, innovation, and trust that ZEISS has been known for globally for over 178 years.”

The ZEISS VISION CENTER will feature an extensive range of ZEISS lenses, showcasing the latest innovations such as ZEISS DuraVision Gold UV lenses for enhanced durability and UV protection, ZEISS MyoCare lenses developed specifically for children with myopia, and ZEISS SmartLife Lenses designed to support today’s digitally connected lifestyles. Consumers can also explore personalized options within the Sun Lens category, with a variety of tints and polarization choices, complemented by a curated selection of premium frames for all age groups. To ensure the most comfortable and precise eye care experience, certified optometrists at the center will leverage advanced diagnostic tools for comprehensive eye examinations delivering lens solutions tailored to individual needs.

Building a Safer Digital Future: The Surge in Cybersecurity Careers

Cybersecurity has become an important concern for businesses, governments, and individuals. With the increasing reliance on digital platforms and the surge in cyber threats, there is a growing demand for cybersecurity professionals. Aspiring engineers looking to make their mark in a dynamic and rewarding field should consider cybersecurity as a promising domain. This article explores the importance of cybersecurity, the skills required, and the opportunities it offers to engineers.

What is Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity refers to the practice of protecting systems, networks, and data from digital attacks, thefts, and damage. The goal is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information and resources. As organizations and individuals become more connected through the internet, the risk of cyberattacks such as hacking, phishing, and data breaches continues to rise. Cybersecurity professionals play a crucial role in preventing, detecting, and mitigating these threats.

Why is Cybersecurity a Thriving Domain?

The growing threat of cybercrime has made cybersecurity a thriving domain for engineers. The reasons are as follows:

  1. Increase in Cyber Threats: With the rise of sophisticated cyber-attacks, businesses and organizations are investing heavily in cybersecurity to protect their data and infrastructure. This has created a significant demand for skilled professionals.
  2. Pervasiveness of Technology: As industries such as finance, healthcare, and retail embrace digital transformation, the need for robust security systems grows. The Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing have further expanded the potential attack surfaces, making cybersecurity even more essential.
  3. High Demand for Skilled Professionals: According to industry reports, the cybersecurity workforce gap is widening, creating numerous opportunities for engineers. The shortage of qualified professionals has made it one of the fastest-growing sectors in the technology industry.
  4. Lucrative Salaries and Job Stability: The demand for cybersecurity professionals has led to high salaries and job stability. As the risks of cyberattacks escalate, organizations are willing to offer competitive pay and benefits to attract talents.

Skills Required for a Career in Cybersecurity

Aspiring engineers looking to pursue a career in cybersecurity need to develop a diverse set of skills. These include both technical and soft skills. Some essential skills for cybersecurity professionals include:

  1. Technical Knowledge: Engineers should have a strong understanding of networks, operating systems, and cryptology. Familiarity with protocols like TCP/IP, DNS, and HTTP, as well as knowledge of firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems (IDS), is highly essential.
  2. Programming Skills: A deep understanding of programming languages such as Python, Java, and C is beneficial for developing security tools, automating tasks, and analysing vulnerabilities. Knowledge on Kali Linux, and Caine will be very essential too.
  3. Problem-Solving Abilities: Cybersecurity professionals need to think critically and creatively to solve complex security issues. Engineers must be able to identify vulnerabilities, anticipate potential threats, and respond to incidents promptly.
  4. Knowledge of Cybersecurity Tools and Frameworks: Familiarity with security tools such as Wireshark, Metasploit, and Nessus, along with industry frameworks like NIST and ISO/IEC 27001, can give engineers a competitive edge in the field.
  5. Continuous Attention and Patience: Cybersecurity requires a high level of continuous attention to analyse the indicators of a potential breach. Engineers must be thorough when reviewing systems and logs to detect vulnerabilities.
  6. Soft Skills: Strong communication, teamwork, and leadership skills are essential, as cybersecurity professionals often work in collaborative environments and must effectively convey technical information to non-technical stakeholders.

Educational Pathways for Aspiring Engineers

Aspiring engineers can pursue various educational pathways to enter the cybersecurity domain. Here are a few steps they can take:

  1. Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Computer Science: A solid foundation in engineering or computer science provides the necessary knowledge for a career in cybersecurity. Courses in networking, operating system, data structures, and algorithms are fundamental to understanding cybersecurity concepts.
  2. Specialized Cybersecurity Programs: Many universities and institutions offer specialized programs in cybersecurity. These programs cover topics such as ethical hacking, cryptography, network security, Digital forensics, and security governance.
  3. Certifications: In addition to formal education, certifications can enhance an engineer’s qualifications and make them more attractive to employers. Popular certifications include CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).
  4. Internships and Hands-on Experience: Gaining practical experience through internships, personal projects, or open-source contributions is invaluable for aspiring engineers. Hands-on experience helps engineers understand real-world challenges and develop the skills required to tackle them.

Career Opportunities in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity offers a wide range of career opportunities for engineers, from technical roles to leadership positions. Some of the common career paths include:

  1. Security Analyst: Security analysts monitor systems for potential threats and ensure that security protocols are followed. They may also be responsible for responding to security incidents and conducting risk assessments.
  2. Ethical Hacker (Penetration Tester): Ethical hackers test the security of systems by simulating cyber-attacks to identify vulnerabilities. They help organizations strengthen their defences before malicious hackers can exploit weaknesses.
  3. Security Architect: Security architects design and implement secure network systems. They work closely with other departments to ensure that security measures are integrated into every aspect of the organization’s technology infrastructure.
  4. Incident Responder: Incident responders are responsible for managing and mitigating the impact of security breaches. They work to contain the breach, investigate its cause, and prevent future occurrences.
  5. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): The CISO is a senior executive responsible for overseeing an organization’s cybersecurity strategy. They ensure that the organization’s security measures align with its business goals and regulatory requirements.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is a preferred domain that offers numerous opportunities for aspiring engineers. As technology continues to evolve and cyber threats become more sophisticated, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals’ increase. Engineers with the right technical skills, certifications, and practical experience can embark on a rewarding career in cybersecurity, contributing to the protection of critical infrastructure and classified information. With job stability, lucrative salaries, and the chance to work on cutting-edge technologies, cybersecurity presents an exciting and fulfilling career path for the next generation of engineers.

FPSB India Celebrates World Financial Planning Day; To Host Multiple Campaigns Across the Country to Raise Awareness of Financial Planning

Mumbai, September 29th, 2025: FPSB India, the Indian subsidiary of Financial Planning Standards Board Ltd. (FPSB Ltd.), along with other global network organisations, is pleased to announce the ninth annual World Financial Planning Day (WFPD), taking place on 8 October 2025. This global event leverages the talents and skills of more than 230,000 CFP® professionals worldwide, including 3,215 CFP® professionals in India, to highlight the pivotal role financial planning plays in empowering people to take control of their financial well-being. World Financial Planning Day also coincides with the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) World Investor Week (WIW) from 6 to 12 October 2025.

As part of these global celebrations, FPSB India will kickstart the celebrations with the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) with a Bell Ringing Ceremony at the BSE, Mumbai premises. It’s symbolic of FPSB India’s commitment to supporting FPSB Ltd.’s worldwide efforts in promoting financial literacy and empowering individuals to build financially resilient futures.

“Celebrated across continents, World Financial Planning Day shines a spotlight on the power of financial planning and of working with a financial planner who has committed to rigorous standards of professionalism and to putting clients’ interests first,” said FPSB CEO Dante De Gori, CFP®. “FPSB’s Value of Financial Planning Global Consumer Research shows people who work with a financial planner, like a CFP® professional, report a higher quality of life, more financial confidence and resilience, and more financial satisfaction – World Financial Planning Day is the perfect occasion for everyone to discover why.”

Last year, the campaign achieved an estimated global audience reach of more than 580 million people through financial education events and campaigns across 20 territories around the world united to celebrate World Financial Planning Day. Building on last year’s success, the 2025 WFPD campaign in India will include a variety of digital campaigns including social media awareness programs about the importance of financial wellbeing and futuristic outlook on investments; financial educational events with academia and industry; communication and outreach campaigns focusing on life goals such as financial planning for a child’s education, marriage, buying a home, parenthood, retirement planning, and more.

“Around the world, our network of organizations and CFP® professional community are uniting with a shared purpose – to empower people to take control of their financial well-being, now and in the future. Through coordinated financial education events and outreach efforts, we are championing the value of financial planning and helping individuals make confident, informed decisions that lead to better lives,” added De Gori. “We look forward to hosting our ninth annual World Financial Planning Day, alongside IOSCO’s World Investor Week, to raise awareness of the wide-ranging benefits of financial planning.”

Learn more about World Financial Planning Day activities taking place in India on FPSB India’s LinkedIn handle here

Learn more about World Financial Planning Day at worldfpday.org.

Payments industry races toward AI-driven future, but lacks guardrails and confidence, according to new HCLTech report

NEW YORK, LONDON and NOIDA, India, Sept 29, 2025 — HCLTech, a leading global technology company, today announced the findings of its latest payments industry research. The research underscores a payments industry advancing rapidly toward an AI-enabled, autonomous future, while simultaneously confronting significant challenges related to trust, regulatory preparedness, and the constraints of legacy systems and infrastructure.

The report highlights a paradox: while AI is seen as essential for balancing frictionless customer experiences with fraud protection, organizations lack the governance and infrastructure to deploy it responsibly. Nearly half (49%) operate without formal AI policies, and concerns about hallucinations, synthetic fraud and data leakage are widespread. This is truer for continental Europe, where only 19% of European executives feel fully prepared for the future of payments.

Additional key findings include:

  • AI is everywhere — but trust is not. While 99% of organizations use AI in payment operations, 91% of executives express concern about its risks, and 60% find current AI fraud detection tools ineffective.
  • While the future is autonomous, leaders aren’t ready. Over half (52%) of organizations expect to become autonomous within 18–24 months, yet only 17% are fully operating in that mode.
  • Innovation wins, but modernization is lagging. Over half of executives (52%) are implementing transformation strategies now and 58% prefer adopting innovative methods over refining legacy ones, but just 20% of companies have cloud native, real-time data systems to support innovation.
  • Customer expectations are driving urgency. 87% of executives fear losing customers without instant payment capabilities.
  • Europe is cautious and lags in readiness. 12% of continental European executives are skeptical about the long-term value of Agentic AI and 57% would prefer to iterate on an established product rather than try something new.

“Payments leaders are embracing innovation, but the gap between ambition and readiness is stark,” said Srinivasan Seshadri, Chief Growth Officer and Global Head, Financial Services at HCLTech. “This research underscores the need for Responsible AI governance, infrastructure modernization and strategic clarity to thrive in the evolving payments landscape.”

We will officially launch this report at SIBOS in Frankfurt today and to access the full report, visit https://www.hcltech.com/payments-research-report.