Airtel invests ₹20,000 crore in its new RBI-licensed NBFC, Airtel Money, to boost digital lending and financial inclusion.

Bharti Airtel plans to invest Rs 20,000 crore in its newly licensed NBFC, Airtel Money Limited, over the next few years, with 70% from Airtel and 30% from Bharti Enterprises. The move, aimed at expanding digital lending and financial inclusion, leverages Airtel’s digital infrastructure, data analytics, and a team of over 500 data scientists. The NBFC, licensed by the RBI on February 13, 2026, has already disbursed over Rs 9,000 crore in loans through a proven lending service provider model. Airtel emphasized strong risk management and scalability, though the RBI noted it does not guarantee the NBFC’s financial soundness. The announcement contributed to a 0.98% rise in Airtel’s share price.