MAM
Jupiter banks on experience with Akhilesh Jha in the driver’s seat
MUMBAI: If money talks, Jupiter Money just made a power move by bringing banking veteran Akhilesh Jha into the conversation. In a strategic hire that signals its next phase of growth, Jupiter Money has appointed Akhilesh Jha as senior vice president for banking and partnerships. With over 20 years of experience in retail banking and digital strategy most recently as head of retail banking portfolio at DBS Bank Jha steps in to amplify Jupiter’s push toward becoming India’s go-to money platform.
At a time when fintechs are rewriting the rules of personal finance, Jupiter’s move shows it’s doubling down on what it does best: combining digital ease with meaningful banking experiences. In his new role, Jha will lead the charge on deepening collaborations with banks and financial institutions, helping Jupiter scale its offerings across savings, credit, and payments.
“We are building a platform that simplifies money for millions of Indians,” said Jupiter Money president, Rohit Kumar Pandey. “Akhilesh brings the perfect mix of legacy banking and fintech edge. As we grow, his insight will be vital in shaping impactful partnerships.”
Jha echoed the sentiment, noting the “mutually beneficial ecosystem” that fintech-bank alliances can create. “Customers get intuitive, digital-first products; banks unlock new channels and revenues; and Jupiter becomes the bridge that makes it happen,” he said.
The announcement comes at a time when Jupiter Money is riding strong tailwinds. In the last quarter alone, it secured key regulatory clearances, expanded its credit footprint, and maintained steady user growth. With an eye on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, the company is working to unlock financial access for underserved digital users.
Jupiter’s product suite already includes an all-in-one savings account (powered by Federal Bank), a Rupay credit card with CSB Bank that integrates with UPI and offers cashback, and an upcoming prepaid wallet after receiving RBI nod. Jha’s appointment adds muscle to Jupiter’s ambition of turning its platform into a full-stack, digital-first banking experience, one that’s as easy as it is empowering.
As Indian consumers grow savvier and seek smarter ways to manage their money, Jupiter Money’s latest leadership bet might just prove that experience is, in fact, the best investment.
Brands
Maharashtra panel orders Lodha to refund Rs 5 crore to homebuyers
Consumer court flags unfair practices in long-running property dispute case
MUMBAI: In a sharp rebuke to one of India’s biggest real estate players, the Maharashtra State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has directed Macrotech Developers to refund nearly Rs 5 crore to a senior citizen couple, Uttam and Anindita Chatterjee. The ruling, delivered on March 13, 2026, calls out the developer for “deficiency in service” and “unfair trade practices”, bringing closure to a dispute that has stretched over a decade.
The case traces back to 2015, when the couple booked a 3-BHK flat at World Towers in Lower Parel for Rs 12.22 crore, with possession promised within a year. What followed was a series of changes that complicated matters. After deciding to exit the project, they were persuaded to shift to a 4-BHK in another development priced at Rs 8 crore, with delivery scheduled for 2018. However, within months, the price was allegedly increased to Rs 10 crore. After demonetisation reshaped the market, similar flats were reportedly being offered at lower prices, but the couple were not given the benefit.
Despite paying over Rs 2.83 crore, the couple neither received possession nor clarity. Instead, in 2018, the developer unilaterally cancelled the booking, retained part of the amount as earnest money, and argued that the buyers were investors rather than consumers. The commission rejected this claim, observing that casual references to “investment” do not take away consumer rights when the purchase intent is residential.
The bench also held that the developer could not penalise buyers for payment delays while failing to meet its own delivery commitments. It noted the lack of formal documentation for revised terms and termed the prolonged retention of funds without delivering a home as exploitative.
As part of its order, the commission directed the developer to refund Rs 2.83 crore paid by the couple, along with interest at 10 per cent per annum, amounting to around Rs 2.12 crore. In addition, Rs 1 lakh has been awarded for mental agony and Rs 50,000 towards litigation costs, taking the total payout to over Rs 5 crore. The developer has been asked to comply within two months.
For now, the ruling serves as a reminder that in real estate, shifting terms and delayed promises can carry a significant cost.
