Indian payments major BillDesk has announced plans to acquire the India payment operations of French fintech firm Worldline in a deal valued at approximately $70.8 million, marking a significant consolidation move within the country’s digital payments ecosystem. The acquisition aligns with Worldline’s broader global strategy to streamline operations and refocus on its core European markets while optimising capital allocation.

As part of the agreement, the two companies will also enter a long-term technology and software partnership, enabling BillDesk to continue leveraging Worldline’s payment infrastructure and technological expertise. The deal values Worldline’s India business at an enterprise value of about $43.7 million and is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.

For BillDesk, the acquisition comes at a time when competition in India’s payments space is intensifying. Despite reporting declining revenue and profit in FY24, the company aims to strengthen its market position through technology integration and expanded merchant capabilities. Meanwhile, Worldline’s India unit generated substantial revenue but remained loss-making, making the exit strategically viable.

The transaction reflects a broader industry shift toward consolidation, efficiency, and scale as fintech players prioritise sustainable growth over aggressive expansion in an increasingly regulated market.