Uber-Jio alliance hints at stiffer e-wallet battle

Mukesh Ambani-promoted Reliance Jio’s partnership with Uber, the American cabhailing company announced on Monday, signals a larger battle in the mobile wallet space where Paytm leads with over 160 million users.

In Uber, too, Paytm has been a preferred partner for the longest time. But that might change.

“Digital payments have become part of our everyday lives and by integrating JioMoney as a payment option, our riders will have the ability to use a familiar and consistent payment experience,” said Madhu Kannan, chief business officer, India and Emerging Markets for Uber. It also plans to extend its services.

The mobile wallet business has surged after demonetisation which sucked out 86% of India’s currency in circulation. More than five million wallet users were added in the wake of demonetisation. Reliance Jio might have missed that cycle. “Airtel could not gather the critical user base while the intent was to do the same (like Paytm). A lot will depend on how Jio incentivises Uber users,” said Sanchit Vir Gogia, CEO and chief analyst, Greyhound Research. HTC