“Can a branchless banking network serving kirana stores become the definitive financial and commerce infrastructure layer for underserved India?”
PayNearby started as a branchless banking network in India, using neighborhood kirana/retail stores as banking correspondents to bring digital financial services to underserved communities. Over time, it evolved into a Distribution-as-a-Service (DaaS) platform, layering credit, insurance, travel, utility payments, and digital tools onto its retailer network. Its NeoDukaan product signals a pivot toward becoming a full commerce and financial OS for small retailers. With an IPO planned for FY26, the company is positioning itself as critical infrastructure for financial inclusion across rural and semi-urban India.