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Kotak Mahindra Bank has clarified it did not submit a financial bid for IDBI Bank's disinvestment, despite earlier reports. This comes as financial bids have been received for the 60.72% stake offered by the government and LIC, with the successful bidder facing RBI assessment and other regulatory approvals.
Published on: February 7, 2026
Kotak Mahindra Bank has clarified its position on the IDBI Bank disinvestment. The bank stated it has not submitted a financial bid. This clarification follows media reports suggesting otherwise. Kotak Mahindra Bank is adhering to SEBI listing regulations. The bank will continue to make necessary disclosures as per its obligations.
Published on: February 7, 2026
Cyber fraud: The steps proposed Friday include a proposal to compensate customers up to ₹25,000 for losses arising from small-value digital frauds, enhanced authentication requirements for transactions undertaken by senior citizens, and tighter conduct rules for lenders.
Published on: February 7, 2026
The RBI is introducing a risk-based premium framework for deposit insurance, set to take effect from April 1, 2026. This new system will reward banks with stronger financial health and better governance with premium discounts of up to 33.3%, while riskier institutions will face higher charges.
Published on: February 6, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India is proposing to exempt smaller non-banking finance companies from registration. Firms with assets under one thousand crore rupees may no longer need central bank approval. This move aims to reduce compliance burdens for these entities. The RBI plans to issue draft guidelines for feedback soon. This could offer greater operational flexibility to smaller firms.
Published on: February 6, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India will now allow banks to lend directly to Real Estate Investment Trusts. This move aims to make financing more accessible and potentially cheaper for the sector. Currently, banks can only fund real estate projects, not land acquisitions.
Published on: February 6, 2026
The boards of Power Finance Corporation and REC have given their in-principle approval for a merger. This move follows an announcement in the budget to restructure these public sector NBFCs. The merger aims to create a larger, more efficient lending institution. This will help finance India's growing power sector needs. Detailed proposals will be made after obtaining necessary approvals.
Published on: February 6, 2026
With the groundbreaking shift allowing complete foreign ownership in India's insurance sector, a new chapter unfolds. This initiative is designed to invigorate competition and broaden insurance access to rural and semi-urban populations.
Published on: February 6, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India has maintained its policy rates. Bankers generally welcomed this decision and the announced regulatory and developmental policies. Initiatives to enhance customer protection, digital payment safeguards, and support for MSMEs are highlighted. These measures aim to strengthen the financial ecosystem and sustain credit flows.
Published on: February 6, 2026
Banks in India will soon pay deposit insurance based on their risk profile. The Reserve Bank of India is introducing a new system from April 1. This replaces the old flat fee. Stronger banks will pay lower premiums. This change aims to encourage better risk management. The new framework considers factors like capital and asset quality.
Published on: February 6, 2026
Non-banking financial companies offering gold loans can now open branches freely, a move expected to benefit major players like Bajaj Finance and Muthoot Finance. The Reserve Bank of India has removed the prior approval requirement for these companies, allowing them to focus more on credit delivery and risk management. However, opening representative offices abroad will still require RBI approval.
Published on: February 6, 2026
The Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) announced that financial bids for the strategic disinvestment of IDBI Bank have been received. These bids will now undergo evaluation according to the established procedure, marking a significant step in the government's plan to divest its majority stake in the lender.
Published on: February 6, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India has kept the repo rate unchanged. This decision brings stability to financing costs for real estate developers and home loan borrowers. Experts believe this will encourage homebuyers to make purchasing decisions. Developers are also motivated to launch new projects. The stable monetary environment boosts confidence in the housing market and strengthens India's appeal to investors.
Published on: February 6, 2026
IDBI Bank, once a development finance institution, is nearing privatization after years of financial stress and government intervention. Indian-Canadian investor Fairfax Financial and Kotak Mahindra Bank are set to submit bids for a majority stake. This marks a significant shift for the troubled public sector lender towards private ownership.
Published on: February 6, 2026
RBI MPC 2026 announcement: The Reserve Bank of India has doubled the upper limit for collateral-free loans to micro and small enterprises (MSEs) from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh. This revision, effective April 1, 2026, aims to combat inflation and improve access to formal credit for these crucial economic contributors.
Published on: February 6, 2026
Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance, Mirae Asset Financial Group and Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance are in early talks to explore entry into India’s $130 billion insurance market, according to sources. The interest follows India allowing full foreign ownership in insurance and comes amid rising cross-border financial sector deals.
Published on: February 6, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India on Friday proposed a set of consumer protection steps to guard users against digital fraud, including a plan to compensate customers up to ₹25,000 for losses from small-value fraudulent transactions. Governor Sanjay Malhotra said the central bank will also release a discussion paper on steps to improve digital payment safety, such as lagged credits and extra authentication for groups like senior citizens.
Published on: February 6, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India is taking significant action by rolling out innovative regulations for banks and lenders. These comprehensive guidelines will redefine how financial products are promoted and sold, with a strong emphasis on preventing mis-selling and ensuring customer protection.
Published on: February 6, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India will propose a framework to compensate customers up to ₹25,000 for losses from small-value fraudulent digital transactions, Governor Sanjay Malhotra said on Friday, as part of steps to strengthen customer protection and payment safety. Draft guidelines will be issued soon and will review customer liability in electronic banking frauds.
Published on: February 6, 2026
RBI MPC Meet: The Reserve Bank of India has rolled out a series of customer-centric reforms, including stronger fraud protection and compensation for small-value losses, alongside regulatory relief for NBFCs and co-operative banks.
Published on: February 6, 2026
Policyholder complaints against insurance companies, particularly for health covers, surged in FY25. Grievances in general and health insurance jumped 41% to 1,37,361. Standalone health insurers saw a 33% rise. Claims settlement issues, including repudiation and delays, were the primary cause. Life insurance complaints focused on survival claims and servicing. Irdai is addressing mis-selling concerns.
Published on: February 5, 2026
The National Company Law Tribunal has made headlines by overturning the insolvency proceedings against Alchemist Limited, spurred by the Enforcement Directorate's intervention that uncovered serious fraud and collusion issues. The tribunal determined that the insolvency mechanism had been exploited, with a notable ₹1,842-crore money laundering investigation concerning the Alchemist group still unfolding.
Published on: February 5, 2026
IDBI Bank stake sale: The reserve price will be decided after receipt of the financial bids and before they are opened, said the people cited. This will only be known to a small group of government officials, they said. The reserve price will not be disclosed to the bidders, according to them.
Published on: February 5, 2026
State Bank of India has secured a significant $1 billion loan from Japan's MUFG. This marks the first social loan of its kind for an Indian bank. The funds are earmarked for lending to women and women-led businesses. This initiative aims to boost women's economic empowerment and promote gender equality.
Published on: February 5, 2026
Kotak Mahindra Bank is significantly expanding its technology team, aiming to hire 500 engineers. This move aims to enhance its long-term competitiveness by transforming into a technology company with a banking license. The bank is investing heavily in AI and automation to improve services and efficiency. This strategic push is set to redefine its operational landscape.
Published on: February 5, 2026
Global accounting and consulting firm KNAV has acquired a majority stake in UAE-based Affiniax Group. This strategic investment underscores KNAV's commitment to expanding its global presence and enhancing its service offerings in key international markets. Both firms are members of the Allinial Global association.
Published on: February 4, 2026
The government plans a conclave for state-run banks this month. The aim is to create globally competitive lenders for Viksit Bharat 2047. This initiative follows the Finance Minister's announcement of a High Level Committee on Banking. The conclave will focus on customer-centricity and scaling credit. Banks will share roadmaps for the next five years.
Published on: February 4, 2026
YES Bank has appointed Vinay Tonse as its new Managing Director. This move signals a measured leadership approach by its new promoter, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation. Experts believe this choice prioritizes continuity and operational familiarity. Tonse faces the task of boosting loan growth and increasing low-cost deposits. The bank's assets, deposits, and advances have seen growth.
Published on: February 4, 2026
Most large life and general insurers in India are promoted by banks and have nominee directors drawn from their promoter banks' boards or senior management. Companies such as SBI Life, SBI General Insurance, HDFC Life and IndiaFirst Life typically have common directors to represent promoter interests.
Published on: February 4, 2026
LIC MD Dinesh Pant highlights the government's strong focus on the insurance sector, evidenced by 100% FDI, GST reduction on individual policies, and the insurance amendment bill. These reforms aim to boost economic growth and bridge India's protection gap, supporting the 'Insurance for All by 2047' goal. The budget's increased capex and improved fiscal management are also praised.
Published on: February 4, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India is considering a significant overhaul of its lender supervision, moving beyond traditional ratio analysis to a deeper examination of banks' business models. This shift aims to identify risks earlier, especially as India's banking system expands rapidly and digital threats multiply.
Published on: February 4, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India has approved Vinay Muralidhar Tonse as the new Managing Director and CEO of Yes Bank for a three-year term. Tonse, formerly MD of Retail Business & Operations at SBI, will take over from Prashant Kumar, subject to shareholder approval. This leadership change aims to bolster Yes Bank's growth strategy and operational stability.
Published on: February 4, 2026
ChrysCapital has acquired a significant minority stake in Nash Industries. This Bengaluru-based company provides design and manufacturing solutions. The deal values Nash Industries at approximately ₹6,000 crore. Nash Industries operates 15 manufacturing facilities across South and West India. This investment highlights ChrysCapital's focus on manufacturing businesses. The partnership aims to accelerate Nash Industries' growth and technological capabilities.
Published on: February 3, 2026
Banks are poised to reopen credit lines for Indian export sectors following the US's reduction of import tariffs to 18%. This move is expected to quickly revive exports of garments, gems, jewelry, leather, and chemicals, leading to increased demand for bank loans. Public sector banks anticipate leading this export credit rebound in the coming quarters.
Published on: February 3, 2026
India is set to boost foreign investment in its state-owned banks. The government plans to raise the foreign direct investment limit to 49 percent. This move aims to strengthen banks and support the nation's ambitious growth plans. Stronger banks will help finance large infrastructure and green energy projects.
Published on: February 3, 2026
Bharti AXA Life Insurance has partnered with Equitas Small Finance Bank. This collaboration aims to expand life insurance access. Equitas Small Finance Bank's network will offer Bharti AXA Life Insurance's savings and retirement plans. The partnership seeks to boost financial preparedness, especially in semi-urban and rural areas. It strengthens the distribution of life insurance products across India.
Published on: February 3, 2026
Affordable housing financiers will see slower growth in their managed assets. This growth is expected to be around 21 percent in fiscal year 2026. Loan against property segment will also experience a slowdown. Profitability will remain healthy. The overall mortgage finance industry will grow steadily. Small-ticket loans require attention due to rising overdue assets.
Published on: February 3, 2026
Fintech giant PhonePe is preparing for its public listing. Its massive scale in UPI payments is a key strength. The company is now focused on expanding into higher-margin financial services like loans and insurance. This strategy aims to leverage its large user base for deeper engagement and revenue growth.
Published on: February 3, 2026
Unified Payments Interface transactions have hit a record Rs 230 lakh crore this financial year until December. This digital payment system is growing rapidly. UPI is now operational in eight countries, facilitating cross-border payments. International Monetary Fund recognizes UPI as the world's largest retail fast-payment system by volume.
Published on: February 3, 2026
Aditya Birla Housing Finance is set to receive Rs 2750 crores from Advent International. This investment values the company at Rs 19,250 crores. The capital infusion will boost ABHFL's growth and market presence. The deal awaits necessary approvals. Aditya Birla Capital will retain a majority stake. This move strengthens the housing finance sector.
Published on: February 3, 2026
Truhome Finance has appointed former SBI Chairman Dinesh Kumar Khara as its new chairperson for a five-year term. Khara, instrumental in SBI's major mergers, brings extensive experience from leadership roles in global banking, risk management, and IT. His appointment signals a significant development for the mortgage lender.
Published on: February 3, 2026
Jagdeep Mallareddy, currently CEO of retail lending at Piramal Finance, is set to join IndusInd Bank to lead its consumer finance business. This strategic hire by CEO Rajiv Anand is crucial for the bank's retail growth plans. Mallareddy, who previously worked with Anand at Axis Bank, will oversee both asset and liability sides of retail banking.
Published on: February 3, 2026
New initiatives aim to boost credit access for the unbanked. The BAANKNET app and Digital Balance Confirmation Platform were launched to streamline property auctions and audits. The PSB Alliance is encouraged to broaden its services. These steps support financial inclusion and efficiency. India's banking sector shows robust health with declining NPAs and steady credit growth.
Published on: February 2, 2026
Budget 2026: The microfinance sector did not receive budget credit guarantee support. However, it anticipates that proposals aimed at increasing rural incomes will enhance the repayment capacity of its customers. Focus on fisheries, animal husbandry, and high-value agriculture through credit-linked programs is expected to strengthen income diversification.
Published on: February 2, 2026
Smaaash Leisure, a popular entertainment operator, has been admitted to insolvency proceedings. The company failed to repay its dues, leading to the application by JC Flowers Asset Reconstruction. The National Company Law Tribunal has appointed an interim resolution professional to manage the process. This development follows a loan default in December 2020.
Published on: February 2, 2026
India is in discussions with Ant International to integrate its instant payment system, UPI, with Alipay+ for seamless cross-border transactions. This initiative aims to simplify payments for Indian travelers abroad, enabling them to use UPI with merchants partnered with Alipay+. The move signifies a significant step towards enhancing international payment convenience.
Published on: February 2, 2026
The Indian government is actively conducting inter-ministerial discussions to increase the foreign direct investment (FDI) ceiling in state-owned banks from the current 20% to 49%, financial services secretary M. Nagaraju said on Monday, reported Reuters.
Published on: February 2, 2026
As per industry officials, the announcement suggests a move toward modernising their business models, which may include better risk management and adoption of market-driven approaches.
Published on: February 1, 2026
A new committee will review India's banking sector. It aims to create fewer, larger banks. This will help fund big projects for India's growth. The panel will also look at ownership rules for private banks. This could attract more foreign investors. The goal is to align banks with India's vision for a developed nation by 2047.
Published on: February 1, 2026
The Union Budget emphasizes fiscal discipline and growth. It supports ease of doing business and living, boosting employment. Key initiatives target sunrise sectors and MSMEs. Investments in digital infrastructure, tourism, and healthcare are highlighted. Banking reforms and infrastructure project support are also planned. Public capital expenditure remains a priority for infrastructure creation.
Published on: February 1, 2026