The Commonwealth Digital Financiers Network (CDFN) has made a remarkable debut in India with two successful launch events in Bengaluru and Mumbai. The network, which seeks to bring together digital banks, fintech innovators, regulators, financial institutions, and technology leaders from 56 Commonwealth nations and seven MENA countries, hosted some of the most influential people in finance, policy, and business during its Indian debut.
The back-to-back events attracted substantial interest from the banking and fintech sectors, underscoring India’s growing significance in the future of global digital finance. The presence of senior political leaders and industry experts added further significance to both gatherings, helping position CDFN as a major platform for international collaboration in banking and financial technology.
The Bengaluru launch spotlights the future of digital banking
CDFN partnered with BharatWHYTEC to host its Bengaluru launch on 20 May 2026 at the ITC Welcome Hotel on Richmond Road. The symposium, “Building Digital Banking Ecosystems,” brought together banking professionals, fintech founders, policymakers, startup leaders, and technology experts to discuss the future of digital finance across the Commonwealth, the Middle East, and North Africa. The event opened with a welcome address by Hon. Niranjan Deva Aditya, President of the Commonwealth Union. His speech focused on the importance of stronger international cooperation in financial innovation and digital transformation.
Following the welcome address, speeches were delivered by other delegates, including Dr. Anshul Gupta, Chairman of the Executive Board; Prof. Udaya Birje Raghunath, founder of BharatWHYTEC; financial expert Aakarsh Naidu; Dr. Dinesh Kanagaratnam, CEO of CDFN; financial advisor and the company secretary, Mrs. Anjali Kulkarni; and Shri Vikash Tatia, and the event concluded with an open discussion and interactive session by Prof. Udaya Birje Raghunath.
The Mumbai event expands CDFN’s footprint in India
Following the successful Bengaluru symposium, CDFN’s second India launch event was held in Mumbai on 22 May 2026 at the World Trade Centre in Cuffe Parade. The event, organized by the Commonwealth Union in association with the World Trade Centre, Mumbai, attracted top business leaders, policymakers, banking professionals, and fintech innovators. The Mumbai launch attracted considerable attention due to the presence of distinguished dignitaries, including Hon. Ashish Shelar, Minister of IT and Culture, Govt. of Maharashtra; H.E. Hon. Chevalier Nirj Deva, President, Commonwealth Union; Dr. Anshul Gupta, Chairman of CDFN; Dr. Dinesh Kanagaratnam, CEO of CDFN; Mr. Nanik Rupani, Chairman of Roopmeck Electricals Pvt. Ltd.; and other prominent delegates.
Their participation brought added visibility and credibility to the event. Notably, the participation of Hon. Ashish Shelar, Minister of IT, brought significant national attention to the network launch. The event started with a welcome address by H.E. Hon. Niranjan Deva Aditya, President of the Commonwealth Union, a digital media platform, followed by a speech from Hon. Ashish Shelar, Minister of IT and Culture, Govt of Maharashtra. The event highlighted key trends shaping the fintech sector, including AI, branchless banking, and digital ecosystems.
Overall, CDFN’s successful launch events in the top two metros in India marked an important step in its global expansion. According to organizers, the initiative is a major milestone in promoting innovation, financial inclusion, and international cooperation in the fast-changing digital banking industry. CDFN is now inviting banks, fintech companies, financial professionals, startups, and technology innovators to become members of its growing international community. This is not just membership. It is a strategic advantage. Join CDFN. Connect globally. Lead digitally.
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Note to Editors
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