Nearly half of senior BFSI executives (49%) view GIFT City as India’s strongest candidate for a global financial hub, according to a new PwC India survey. With 63% of respondents expressing interest in relocating or expanding to the Gujarat-based financial district, GIFT City is fast emerging as a hub for innovation, global markets, and talent development. While optimism runs high, PwC notes that challenges around ecosystem maturity, lifestyle infrastructure, and specialised skills must be addressed to unlock full potential.
Core Development
Survey respondents: 200 senior financial services executives.
49% see very high growth potential for GIFT City.
63% willing to relocate or set up operations there.
77% believe finance and technology talent is available locally.
Demand is rising for specialised expertise in blockchain, cloud security, risk technology, and regulatory compliance.
PwC Chairperson Sanjeev Krishan called GIFT City a transformative opportunity for India to cement its position in the global financial and technology ecosystem.
Key Drivers / Issues
India’s push to position GIFT City as an IFSC (International Financial Services Centre).
Attractive regulatory and tax framework.
Growing demand for fintech and cross-border financial services.
Talent availability in BFSI and emerging technologies.
Stakeholder Impact
For global financial institutions, GIFT City offers a strategic base to serve international markets. Indian BFSI firms gain a platform to scale globally. Talent professionals benefit from expanding opportunities in tech-driven finance. For policymakers, the survey validates efforts to strengthen India’s position in global capital markets.
Industry & Policy Reactions
Gayathri Parthasarathy (PwC India): Noted that GIFT City is gaining traction as both a financial and technology hub, with the right policy support critical for scaling.
Industry analysts see the city as a testbed for future-ready BFSI models, where Indian and foreign players collaborate on innovation.
Challenges Ahead
Building robust lifestyle and social infrastructure to attract global talent.
Deepening ecosystem maturity for seamless financial services.
Developing specialised talent pipelines in next-gen technologies.
Strategic Outlook
With strong industry backing and supportive policies, GIFT City could evolve into a regional financial hub on par with Singapore and Dubai. Success will depend on creating a holistic ecosystem that balances regulation, innovation, and quality of life.
Why This Matters
The survey shows GIFT City is no longer just a tax-efficient zone but a strategic nucleus for global BFSI innovation. Its rise could redefine India’s position in the global financial landscape.
