Introduction
ZestMoney, an Indian fintech startup specializing in “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) services, is reportedly shutting down by the end of December 2023. This closure highlights the challenges faced by fintech companies in adapting to rapidly changing regulatory environments and market dynamics.
The Rise of ZestMoney
Founded in 2015, ZestMoney emerged as a leader in the BNPL sector in India. With a valuation of nearly $450 million at its peak, the company attracted significant investments from giants like Goldman Sachs and established partnerships with over 10,000 online brands and 75,000 offline stores. ZestMoney’s customer base grew to 17 million, and it facilitated monthly loan disbursals of Rs 400 crore, becoming a notable presence in the fintech arena.
Unraveling of a Fintech Giant
Regulatory Challenges
ZestMoney’s troubles began with the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) June 2022 directive, restricting non-bank institutions from loading credit lines onto Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPI). This regulation significantly impacted ZestMoney’s operations, as it was a key component of their business model.
Failed Acquisition Attempt
Further exacerbating the situation was the collapse of a potential acquisition by PhonePe, a Walmart-backed fintech company. Valued between $200 million and $300 million, the deal fell through in March 2023 due to due diligence concerns. This left ZestMoney in a precarious position, leading to a 20% workforce reduction and a desperate search for a new buyer.
Leadership Transition
The departure of co-founders Lizzie Chapman, Priya Sharma, and Ashish Anantharaman in May 2023 marked a significant leadership transition. Their resignation, following the stalled PhonePe deal, put the company under new management, which struggled to maintain the original vision and adapt to the challenges.
Funding Difficulties
Despite securing $50 million from Australian BNPL fintech Zip Co in September 2022, ZestMoney faced continual funding challenges. A lifeline of $5 million from existing investors in August 2023 was insufficient to sustain the business long-term.
The Closure Decision
Announcing the Shutdown
In a December 5 meeting, the management announced the decision to wind down operations. The company will maintain a minimal legal and finance team to oversee the shutdown process, with the rest of the 150 employees being laid off. ZestMoney committed to providing two months of severance pay and outplacement support to affected employees.
Employee Impact
The closure has led to a tense situation for employees, many of whom have updated their LinkedIn profiles to indicate they are open to work. The sudden nature of the shutdown came as a surprise to many, highlighting the precarious nature of startup employment.
Conclusion: Lessons from ZestMoney’s Decline
ZestMoney’s journey illustrates the volatile nature of the fintech industry in India. Regulatory changes, market dynamics, leadership transitions, and operational challenges can collectively impact even well-funded startups. ZestMoney’s struggle and eventual shutdown serve as a cautionary tale for other fintech startups navigating similar challenges.
