Paytm, the digital payment platform operated by One97 Communications, has officially become an Indian owned and controlled company (IOCC), as indicated in a recent regulatory filing. This transition marks a significant milestone in the Indian fintech sector, with domestic investors now holding 50.3% of Paytm's equity. Institutional ownership has notably risen from 14% to 23.1% over the past year, reflecting increased confidence among domestic investors. The shift follows the exit of major foreign stakeholders, including China's Ant Group, which sold its remaining 5.8% stake for ₹3,800 crore in August 2023, and Berkshire Hathaway, which divested its entire holding in 2023. This change in ownership structure is expected to ease regulatory challenges for Paytm, particularly as it seeks to expand into lending and wealth management services. In Q3 FY26, Paytm reported a net profit of ₹225 crore, a turnaround from a loss of ₹208 crore in the same quarter the previous year, and its operating revenue grew by 20% to ₹2,194 crore. As Paytm strengthens its position within India's digital economy, it aligns itself with the government's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, emphasizing local control over financial data and infrastructure.