Mastercard's Puneeth Bekal Moves To HDFC Securities

Our official sources have confirmed that Puneeth Bekal, erstwhile Director- Area Marketing at Mastercard, has now moved to HDFC Securities as its Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President. He will wear the dual hat and also lead HDFC Sky.

Puneeth has over 19 years of experience in brands and marketing, with key expertise in brand strategy, marketing strategy, and digital marketing across industries and verticals. He was recently awarded as the 100 Most Influential Marketers by BW Business World.

Speaking on his appointment, Bekal expresses, “I am thrilled to embark on this journey with HDFC Securities, driving towards our shared vision of becoming the preeminent ally for financial investors. In a rapidly evolving landscape, we recognise the transformative power of cutting-edge technologies, and my commitment is to leverage these tools to unlock their full potential. 

As the newly appointed CMO at HDFC Securities and HDFC Sky, my immediate focus is to propel our digital capabilities to new heights, with a specific emphasis on HDFC Sky. This strategic initiative aims to position HDFC Sky as the undisputed investment platform of choice for the vibrant community of young and millennial investors across the nation. Through innovation, personalised experiences, and a commitment to trust, we aspire to redefine the landscape of financial services and solidify our standing as the go-to destination for the next generation of investors."

His new role begins on January 9, after 5 successful years with Mastercard, where he led India and South Asia and drove brand, sponsorship, media, digital and research objectives. His recent accomplishments include the sponsorship strategy for India and South Asia, which provides Mastercard's most significant global sponsorship in Cricket in India, with BCCI for the Title Sponsorship of India Home series and ICC official partner sponsorship for 16 countries.

Dhiraj Relli, MD & CEO, HDFC Securities adds, “Puneeth will be instrumental in crafting a new age, digital-first marketing ecosystem to lead HDFC Securities to stand out in the fragmented and evolving broking and distribution space in India. Puneeth’s enthusiasm and expertise will play a key role in the entire spectrum of HSL’s offerings ranging from our flat pricing offering - HDFC Sky to Investment advisory services.”