North East Small Finance Bank (NESFB), Assam’s first unicorn and India’s pioneering fintech-powered bank, made a remarkable debut at Startup Mahakumbh 2025 held at Bharat Mandapam from April 3–5. Fresh off its merger with fintech unicorn slice, NESFB unveiled a bold vision of AI-led, inclusive banking for a Viksit Bharat by 2047. At the event, NESFB introduced two new digital-first products—the Digital Savings Account linked directly to the RBI repo rate with daily interest credits, and a Fixed Deposit offering up to 9% returns. Both products feature seamless digital onboarding and app-based accessibility, catering to tech-savvy and value-conscious users.
The bank also revealed plans to roll out AI-powered flagship branches across metro cities and tier-2 hubs in the next 12–24 months, while deepening outreach in rural markets. Guwahati, NESFB’s home base, has emerged as a key driver in this transformation. The city’s rising digital literacy, expanding startup culture, and growing middle-class demand make it a fertile ground for innovation-led financial services, cementing its role as a fintech hotspot in the Northeast.
A slice I NESFB spokesperson said: “The unwavering support of the Government of Assam, under the visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, has been instrumental in NESFB’s journey. Their forward-thinking policies and active facilitation have helped us not only scale in the Northeast but position ourselves as a digital-first bank for all of India. NESFB is proud to be Assam’s first unicorn—proof that regional excellence can thrive and lead on national and global stages.” He added: “Our mission is clear: to redefine banking with tech-led solutions that are accessible, efficient, and empowering. Whether it’s AI-driven branches, high-yield savings, or smart fixed deposits, we’re building a bank that works for everyone—from metro millennials to rural entrepreneurs.”
