In an interaction with ET Online, Sriram Kanuri, CEO and Founder of Arteria Technologies, says the company uses AI and blockchain to improve risk management and provide real-time underwriting based on transaction-level data. Edited excerpts:
ET: Can you provide an overview of Arteria’s mission in the supply chain management sector?
Sriram Kanuri: We are revolutionising enterprise supply chain operations and financing through our cloud-based SaaS platform. By integrating banking services with supply chain solutions, we tackle multiple longstanding challenges faced by enterprises such as disintegrated banking and supply chain systems.
We recognised a lack of end-to-end visibility in supply chains, resulting in substantial inefficiencies in inventory management and working capital practices. Traditionally, enterprise supply chain and banking were treated as separate systems. We developed a product that leverages automation to digitise and integrate these. Our FinessArt suite of products was developed to tackle these pain points by leveraging automation, digitisation, and Integration throughout the entire process.
With our transaction-level data analysis capabilities, we enable real-time underwriting and on-demand credit provision based on transaction history. This innovative approach reduces non-performing assets (NPAs) for financial institutions and ensures more accurate risk assessment and management. Additionally, our solutions simplify loan access and banking services for suppliers and distributors, featuring paperless loan disbursal, automated payment reminders and real-time reconciliation.
ET: How is AI being leveraged to improve supply chain management?
SK: The convergence of blockchain and AI is revolutionising commercial banking and supply chain practices. Blockchain streamlines transactions and automates compliance in banking, while AI provides personalised customer insights and risk management. In supply chains, IoT devices enable real-time tracking, optimising logistics and reducing waste. Together, these technologies improve transparency, efficiency and customer satisfaction, while reducing costs and risks. AI-driven analysis also provides real-time underwriting and fraud detection, enhancing decision-making and operational efficiency. We leverage AI to transform enterprise supply chain operations and financing. Our cloud-based SaaS platform integrates advanced technologies to address business challenges.
ET: How does Arteria practise sustainability in its supply chain operations, given that this is a big requirement nowadays?
SK: Businesses have to embrace futuristic solutions that drastically reduce waste and enhance efficiency. We are leading this transformation with our platform, FinessArt, which connects the entire supply chain ecosystem. By improving transparency and streamlining operations, we help businesses contribute towards the net zero journey. Furthermore, our collaboration with financial institutions accelerates the adoption of sustainable practices by providing financial support. It’s essential for companies to adopt these cutting-edge technologies not only to reduce their carbon footprint but also to cultivate a culture of sustainability throughout their operations.
ET: How do you ensure seamless integration with SAP and other systems in customer operations?
SK: We place a strong emphasis on ensuring that our products integrate seamlessly with our customers’ systems, such as SAP S4H and Tally. Our integration process begins with a comprehensive assessment of our customers’ IT infrastructure. We collaborate closely with their IT teams to identify key integration points and understand the specific requirements for interoperability. hese technical foundations enable us to facilitate smooth integration processes with minimal disruption during implementation. Leveraging our expertise in cloud-based solutions and SaaS platforms, our products comprise robust APIs and scalable architectures and are certified integrations with SAP BTP (SAP Cloud PaaS).ET: What are some of the major trends shaping the future of supply chain management?
SK: First, there’s a growing emphasis on sustainability, resilience and ethical sourcing practices, driven by consumer demand and regulatory pressures. Transparency and traceability in supply chains are being enhanced by IoT and blockchain technologies. Automation and robotics are streamlining operations, while data analytics is optimising decision-making processes. Last, the trend towards digitalisation and cloud-based solutions is revolutionising how supply chains are managed, optimised and made resilient.ET: How is Arteria positioning itself to stay ahead of emerging industry trends and address upcoming challenges?
SK: We continuously enhance our solutions to integrate seamlessly with emerging technologies and evolving industry standards. Our platform is designed to be scalable and adaptable, ensuring that it can grow with our clients’ needs and incorporate new functionalities. We prioritise interoperability with existing systems like SAP S4H etc., to provide a seamless user experience. We also invest heavily in cybersecurity measures to protect our clients’ data and operations. This includes implementing advanced encryption, multi-factor authentication, and continuous monitoring. Our proactive approach includes ongoing research and development to anticipate market needs and challenges.
ET: How do you envision the role of AI evolving in the supply chain sector, and what part will Arteria play in this evolution?
SK: Generative AI is revolutionising logistics and supply chain management by boosting efficiency and innovation. It helps businesses predict demand, manage inventory and automate decision-making, leading to reduced logistics costs, optimised stock levels and streamlined operations. This technology allows for more accurate forecasting and better resource management, promoting sustainability and reducing waste.
At Arteria, we are embracing AI to improve supply chain operations. Our AI-driven solutions provide real-time underwriting, personalised recommendations for various personas on the supply chain network and proactive risk management. By analysing data and automating processes, we help our clients increase sales, optimise logistics, enhance efficiency and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
ET: How many clients do you have now and how many do you plan to acquire in the next few years?
SK: Arteria serves a diverse client base across various industries. Some of our strategic deals are with industry leaders such as Britannia, Exide, Emami, RSPL Group, HDFC Bank, Axis bank, M&M, Nayara Energy, Tata Steel and Tata Chemicals. Our aim is to triple the client list.
ET: What are the company’s plans ahead?
SK: We are focused on further integrating advanced technologies like Gen AI into all aspects of FinessArt portfolio solutions to deliver even greater value to our clients. This includes developing new features that address emerging challenges in supply chain and financing. We will invest in R&D to remain leaders in supply chain management and financing solutions. We aim to lead in innovation and drive growth for clients in finance and commerce, increasing revenue by 10X in five years.
