Paytm plans to invest Rs 500 cr in early-stage startups; to focus on AI-based tech, big data solutions for new innovations

New Delhi: Digital payments firm Paytm on Monday said it plans to invest Rs 500 crore in early-stage startups that build complementary technologies augmenting the digital ecosystem. The company will focus on artificial intelligence-based technology and big data solutions for new innovations that can generate large scale employment. [caption id=“attachment_6013191” align=“alignleft” width=“380”] Representational image. Reuters.[/caption] “The company has set aside Rs 500 crore to invest in early-stage companies that build complementary technologies augmenting the digital ecosystem,” Paytm said in a statement. The company said it expects to employ technology across the growing internet to become the dominant player in artificial intelligence (AI). “We are well aligned with our country’s mission to ensure the benefits of the digital revolution reach the last mile. We partner with startups who have capabilities that augment the digital ecosystem for the next wave of growth. “These investments are also an indication that Paytm believes India’s entrepreneur ecosystem is innovative and is growing well,” Paytm deputy chief financial officer Vikas Garg said. The company typically invests Rs 200-250 crore every year in intellectual properties or companies building complementary technologies such as Insider, Nearbuy, Loginext, Ticket New, Hungerbox, Nightstay, QRQL, and RecruiterGrid, the statement said.