Kunal Shah Named WhatsApp Global Head
CRED founder Kunal Shah has been named the next global head of WhatsApp as Meta announced a major investment in the Indian fintech company, marking one of the biggest leadership moves involving an Indian startup founder in global technology.
Kunal Shah To Lead WhatsApp Globally
Kunal Shah will take charge of WhatsApp globally, succeeding Will Cathcart, who led the messaging platform for nearly seven years. Cathcart is expected to continue at Meta in another role.
Shah, who founded CRED in 2018, is one of India’s most prominent startup entrepreneurs. His appointment places him at the helm of one of the world’s largest messaging platforms, used by more than three billion people globally.
Meta Invests $900 Million In CRED
As part of the wider deal, Meta will invest around $900 million in CRED, valuing the Bengaluru-based fintech company at about $4.5 billion. The investment will give Meta a minority stake in the company.
The deal includes both primary and secondary share purchases. CRED has said the investment will support its next phase of growth, strengthen its institutional structure and expand its financial services business.
CRED Leadership Change After Meta Deal
Following Shah’s move to WhatsApp, Miten Sampat, CRED’s head of strategy and finance, will take over as interim CEO. CRED has also said Meta’s investment will not give the company access to customer data.
The development comes as global technology firms continue to deepen their interest in India’s digital economy, particularly payments, financial services and messaging-led commerce. Shah’s appointment is also being seen as a major recognition of India’s startup leadership on the global technology stage.
