On April 3, 2025, Microsoft hosted the “AI Boardroom 2025” event in Mumbai, focusing on the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in India’s Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector. The gathering brought together industry leaders to discuss the practical applications and benefits of AI technologies in enhancing productivity, customer service, and operational efficiency.​

The event featured a panel discussion moderated by Dahnesh Dilkhush, Executive Director – Customer Success, Microsoft India and South Asia. Panelists included Devang Mody, CEO of Bajaj Finserv Health; Neha Gupta, Managing Director and Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG); Nitin Chugh, Deputy Managing Director and Head of Digital Banking & Transformation at State Bank of India; and Sonali Kulkarni, Country Head – BFSI, Microsoft India and South Asia.

Puneet Chandok, President of Microsoft India and South Asia, emphasized AI’s pivotal role in addressing real-world challenges within the BFSI sector. He highlighted examples such as the streamlining of health insurance claims at Bajaj Finserv Health and the enhancement of operational efficiency at the State Bank of India. Chandok stated, “AI is undoubtedly the most transformative technology of our time, and its impact is particularly profound in India.” 

Supporting this perspective, a recent IDC survey commissioned by Microsoft revealed that the BFSI sector experiences the highest return on investment (ROI) from generative AI implementations, with an average return of nearly five times for every dollar invested. This underscores AI’s role as a significant competitive differentiator for organizations in the sector. ​

Sonali Kulkarni noted the sector’s transition from exploring AI’s potential to realizing tangible benefits. She remarked, “We are witnessing a pivotal moment for India’s BFSI sector as AI moves from promise to proof. The significant productivity gains, deeper customer insights, and cost savings being realized are a testament to the transformative power of AI.”

The discussions at the AI Boardroom 2025 event highlighted the BFSI sector’s commitment to integrating AI technologies to drive innovation and efficiency. As organizations continue to adopt AI solutions, the sector is poised for a future characterized by enhanced customer experiences and streamlined operations.