IMT Ghaziabad launches Centre for Financial Markets in Mumbai to strengthen Industry-Academia collaboration

With India's startup ecosystem set for exponential growth, projections indicate over $600 billion in private equity and venture capital (PE/VC) investments will flow into the country in the next three years.

This surge represents a crucial part of the $4.7 trillion investment needed across various channels—including government funding, corporate reserves, PE/VC, corporate debt, and IPOs—to propel India towards a $5 trillion economy by FY2027.

The alternative assets market, currently valued at $400 billion, is also expected to expand, fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic progress.

Recognizing the importance of financial literacy and industry-driven education in this evolving landscape, IMT Ghaziabad has established the Centre for Financial Markets (CFM) in Mumbai.

This strategic initiative aims to bridge academia and the financial sector, equipping students with industry-relevant knowledge and practical exposure.

At the launch event, Mr. Navneet Munot, Managing Director & CEO of HDFC Asset Management Company Limited, highlighted the transformative potential of India's financial markets.

“With an expanding talent pool, rapid digitalization, and supportive government policies, India’s financial sector is poised for remarkable growth. A deep understanding of market dynamics and economic policies is essential for wealth creation in today's fast-evolving landscape,” he remarked.

IMT Ghaziabad’s Centre for Financial Markets will integrate emerging trends such as fintech, AI-driven investments, and sustainable finance into its curriculum.

The introduction of specialized certifications, hands-on training, and an industry-aligned approach ensures that students gain the expertise needed for leadership roles in banking, financial services, and capital markets.

The demand for skilled professionals in the BFSI sector continues to rise, and CFM aims to enhance enrollment, internship opportunities, and industry collaborations to meet this need.

Dr. Atish Chattopadhyay, Director of IMT Ghaziabad, emphasized the institution’s long-standing contribution to financial education. “For over 44 years, IMT Ghaziabad has played a key role in shaping India’s financial sector through education and research. The launch of CFM in Mumbai comes at a crucial time, with disruptive technologies, geopolitical shifts, and artificial intelligence redefining traditional financial models,” he stated.

The rise of fintech innovation, alternative investments, and regulatory advancements is attracting greater capital inflows into emerging markets. The financial landscape is evolving with increased PE/VC funding, institutional participation, and digital asset integration, enhancing market liquidity and economic resilience. "CFM will serve as a think tank, addressing key challenges in India's financial sector and preparing future finance professionals for the post-AI era," added Dr. Chattopadhyay.

Dr. Harsimran Sandhu, Chairperson of CFM & Professor of Finance, further elaborated on the program’s structure. “CFM at IMT Ghaziabad and Mumbai will play a crucial role in developing industry-ready finance professionals through our PGDM BFS program, offered in collaboration with NISM, Mumbai. The Mumbai-based immersion program will provide students with hands-on exposure to financial institutions and regulatory frameworks. With an industry-centric curriculum, a Bloomberg Finance Lab, and strong corporate partnerships, our graduates will be equipped with the practical expertise to excel in dynamic financial markets.”

IMT Ghaziabad’s PGDM Banking and Financial Services (BFS) program is designed to cultivate future leaders in finance through corporate tie-ups, mentorship programs, and networking platforms. Students will gain access to roundtable discussions, financial industry forums, and direct engagement with market professionals, resulting in increased recruiter participation, high placement success, and stronger career opportunities in banking, investment management, and alternative assets.

The launch of the Centre for Financial Markets aligns with IMT Ghaziabad’s vision of advancing financial research and fostering industry collaboration. By serving as a hub for finance professionals, scholars, and corporate leaders, CFM is set to drive innovation and create a lasting impact on the financial sector.