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Banking/Finance-Industry-Economic Times
Two banks have already shown interest. Bank of Baroda and ICICI Bank's applications have come, Axis Bank's is a work-in-progress, and a consortium led by Union Bank and Daiichi is also exploring participation, PFRDA chairman Sivasubramanian Ramann said.
Published on: February 13, 2026
Mizuho Bank aims to build a Japan-India investment corridor using its banking strength and the Avendus Capital acquisition, as CEO Masahiko Kato highlights rising Japanese investor interest and India’s growing strategic appeal.
Published on: February 13, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India is introducing new rules to make credit more accessible. Banks will no longer need 'no dues' certificates from borrowers. A quarter of new bank branches will open in smaller towns. Lenders must maintain a high credit-deposit ratio in rural areas. These changes aim to boost credit flow and financial inclusion across India.
Published on: February 13, 2026
Where bank financing is for the purpose of refinancing of existing term loans, it shall be ensured that the financing is only for completed projects that have received a completion certificate (CC), occupation certificate (OC). Further lending to a REIT by a bank shall only be by way of loans not involving bullet or ballooning principal repayments, the RBI said.
Published on: February 13, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India has updated rules for acquisition financing. Banks can now offer loans for stake increases above 26% to 90%. Stricter financial criteria apply to borrowers. The RBI also increased the amount individuals can borrow against shares to Rs 1 crore. New limits are set for loans against securities, effective April 1, 2026.
Published on: February 13, 2026
Indian banks can now finance company acquisitions. The Reserve Bank of India has allowed lenders to fund up to 20% of their capital for these deals. This opens new credit growth avenues for Indian banks. They can lend up to 75% of the acquisition value for both listed and unlisted companies.
Published on: February 13, 2026
Capital Small Finance Bank is set for major growth. The bank aims to double its business to Rs 16,000 crore by 2029. This expansion will be driven by a projected annual growth of 23 to 24 percent. The bank will continue to focus on secured lending, with MSME loans leading the way.
Published on: February 13, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India has approved Sanjay Agarwal's re-appointment as Managing Director of AU Small Finance Bank. This marks his third term, effective April 19. The approval comes as the bank aims to become a universal lender. AU Small Finance Bank is currently the largest small finance lender in India.
Published on: February 13, 2026
Public sector banks have significantly increased their share in credit card spending, reaching 22.2% in December 2025. This growth is attributed to higher usage by existing cardholders, robust festive demand, and expanded reach into salaried segments, particularly driven by large PSBs like SBI Cards. The integration of RuPay credit cards with UPI has also fueled this expansion.
Published on: February 13, 2026
HDFC Bank and two global financial firms are exploring buying a stake in CreditAccess Grameen. Axis Bank is also in talks. CreditAccess India BV, the owner, is looking to sell its majority stake. This move aims to provide an exit for patient investors. The microfinance market is showing signs of recovery. CreditAccess Grameen is financially strong and poised for growth.
Published on: February 12, 2026
Recent regulations from the Reserve Bank of India could dampen the momentum of credit life insurance, a product often paired with retail loans. The new guidelines prohibit banks from linking insurance policies directly to loan approvals, a move designed to enhance transparency and safeguard consumers from potential misinformation.
Published on: February 12, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India has proposed draft guidelines directing banks and housing finance companies to follow stricter rules while using recovery agents. Banks must give borrowers written details of assigned agents, avoid setting targets that may lead to harsh practices, and not engage agents if a grievance is already filed.
Published on: February 12, 2026
Payment digitisation rose further in the six months to September 2025, extending a year-long trend, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said. The RBI’s Digital Payments Index (RBI-DPI) stood at 516.76 in September 2025, up from 465.33 a year earlier and 493.22 in March 2025.
Published on: February 12, 2026
Kotak Alternate has successfully secured Rs 3,900 crore in its inaugural fundraising round, making it a significant milestone as the largest first-time fundraising by an Indian platform from local investors. This venture will target promising stable income avenues and growth chances, directing funds towards cash-flow-positive assets and mid to large-scale enterprises, with an emphasis on safeguarding capital.
Published on: February 12, 2026
Liquidity, which was tight just two months ago, has swung into its largest surplus in six months. The RBI has stayed away till now from draining any short-term cash, prompting analysts to ask whether the authority is allowing easier financial conditions to enforce the transmission of earlier rate cuts to the broader economy.
Published on: February 12, 2026
Canara Bank is selling ₹577 crore debt of Supreme Housing and Hospitality. A Swiss challenge auction is planned. The bank has also filed a petition to restart insolvency proceedings. This follows a failed one-time settlement offer by the company. The auction aims to gauge investor interest. Bids are due February 21. An electronic auction is scheduled for March 13.
Published on: February 11, 2026
Reserve Bank of India Deputy Governor Swaminathan J emphasized that banking ethics are crucial for financial system safety. He highlighted that strong ethical standards protect customers, employees, and institutions. Ethics prevent minor issues from escalating. Regulatory discipline ensures institutional reliability and credibility. Transparency in digital banking is vital for customer understanding.
Published on: February 11, 2026
IDFC FIRST Bank has secured a crucial nod from the Reserve Bank of India. ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company, along with group entities of ICICI Bank, can now acquire up to 9.95% of the bank's paid-up share capital. This development marks a significant step for the bank. The approval is subject to specific conditions and compliance with relevant regulations.
Published on: February 11, 2026
Vivriti Asset Management plans to launch a diversified bond fund of ₹5,000 crore in the second quarter of the next financial year, with a greenshoe option of ₹2,000 crore, chief investment officer Soumendra Ghosh said. The firm is also close to closing its existing ₹2,200-crore bond fund after securing commitments of over ₹2,100 crore.
Published on: February 11, 2026
In an exciting strategic pivot, Tamilnad Mercantile Bank is setting the stage for revenue growth by revamping its workforce. Plans are underway to equip over 50% of staff with essential sales skills, accompanied by cutting-edge technology that will automate daily tasks. Furthermore, the bank is on the lookout for over 200 fresh hires.
Published on: February 11, 2026
While speaking at the Axis Bank Champions Awards ceremony, the RBI DG said, " the temptation to cut corners, to postpone a difficult disclosure, to take a convenient interpretation, or to treat a complaint as an inconvenience. Ethics is what stops small compromises from becoming large problems. It is not about being perfect. It is about how you handle grey areas, and how fairly and quickly you correct a mistake," he said.
Published on: February 11, 2026
Tamilnad Mercantile Bank is shifting its focus to boost revenues. Over half its staff will be retrained for sales roles. Technology investments will automate many routine tasks. The bank plans to hire over 200 new employees. This strategic move aims to enhance customer engagement and expand its business segments.
Published on: February 11, 2026
Goldman Sachs is significantly increasing its investment in India, shifting from a "future growth story" to a present opportunity. This strategic pivot has already boosted its rankings in Indian equity offerings and mergers, demonstrating a commitment to capturing market share in the world's fastest-growing developing economy.
Published on: February 11, 2026
Piramal Finance secured $400 million through an external commercial borrowing (ECB) package from a consortium including Deutsche Bank, SMBC, Axis Bank, DBS, and Far Eastern International Bank. The 42-month facility will see about half the principal repaid as a bullet at maturity, priced at SOFR +175 bps.
Published on: February 10, 2026
Indian banks are slowing hiring due to automation, AI, and digital tools reducing the need for large staff increases. HDFC Bank added 5,000 employees in December 2025, reaching 2,15,000, while Axis Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank saw declines in headcount.
Published on: February 10, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India has announced that Tata Motors Finance and Piramal Enterprises have surrendered their registration certificates. Six other non-banking finance companies also surrendered their licenses. The central bank is now seeking public comments on proposed amendments to exempt certain NBFCs from registration.
Published on: February 10, 2026
Bank Strike: Banking services may see limited disruption on February 12, 2026. The State Bank of India has announced a nationwide bank strike. Customers are advised of potential impacts. This action by the country's largest public sector bank will affect operations. Work is expected to be impacted to a limited extent during the strike.
Published on: February 10, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India is proposing new lending rules for urban cooperative banks. These banks may soon be allowed to increase unsecured loans to 20 percent of their total assets. Individual loan limits will also be enhanced. Public feedback on these draft proposals is invited until March 4, 2026. This move aims to strengthen the banking sector.
Published on: February 10, 2026
Banks lending to the National Cooperative Development Corporation will gain priority sector status from January 19, 2026. This move aims to boost funds for cooperative societies. The Reserve Bank of India is also strengthening cooperative banks through various measures. These include branch expansion, increased housing loan limits, and improved governance.
Published on: February 10, 2026
India bank FDI inflows: Total FDI inflow includes equity inflow, equity capital of unincorporated bodies, re-invested earnings, and other capital, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.
Published on: February 10, 2026
Under the transaction, investment funds affiliated with Carlyle Asia Partners will invest ₹2,100 crore (around $230 million) in Nido. This includes a secondary purchase of a 45% stake from Edelweiss and a primary equity infusion of ₹1,500 crore to fund future growth. Post-transaction, Edelweiss will continue to hold a significant minority stake in the business, it said.
Published on: February 10, 2026
Citigroup has appointed Ankur Khurana as the new head of its Commercial Bank in India. This move highlights the US lender's commitment to expanding its commercial banking services across Asia. Khurana brings extensive experience from her previous leadership roles at Standard Chartered and Credit Suisse. Her expertise will be crucial in bolstering Citi's presence and client coverage in the region.
Published on: February 10, 2026
Asia-focused Hillhouse Investment Management is nearing a deal to acquire a 5% stake in Quest Global. The engineering services firm is valued at approximately $4.5 billion. This investment is part of Quest Global's pre-IPO fundraising. Singapore's Temasek may also secure a smaller stake. Quest Global is also considering a reverse flip to list on Indian stock exchanges.
Published on: February 10, 2026
India's banking sector outlook is stable. Moody's Ratings projects low non-performing assets. Robust economic growth will support the sector's fundamentals. Profitability is expected to remain stable. Loan growth will align with deposits. Banks are well-capitalised. Strong economic growth will support asset quality.
Published on: February 9, 2026
The promoter group is looking to raise about ₹2,000 crore through a combination of promoter-level borrowing and debt at the operating company, according to people familiar with the discussions.
Published on: February 9, 2026
Areion Group secured the winning bid for Aviom India Housing Finance. Secured lenders unanimously backed Areion's Rs 936-crore offer. This plan offers lenders a recovery of about 65%. Unity Small Finance Bank had placed a higher bid but with conditions. Lenders preferred Areion's unconditional offer for certainty of recovery.
Published on: February 9, 2026
Amid a wave of rising AI-generated frauds, banks and regulators are responding with strengthened security controls, multi-factor authentication, real-time fraud-monitoring systems and customer awareness campaigns. As a customer protection measure, the RBI in its February Monetary Policy announced compensation of up to Rs 25,000 for small-value payment frauds if the customers are genuinely cheated.
Published on: February 9, 2026
Kotak Mahindra Bank faces leadership churn as CTO Bhavnish Lathia resigns citing personal reasons for a US relocation, less than a year into his role. This follows a series of senior exits, including former CTO Milind Nagnur. Nilesh Chaudhari is now the new CTO, with Aravamudham Narayanan heading innovation and AI.
Published on: February 9, 2026
Bank of Baroda has lowered its car loan interest rates. The floating rate now begins at 7.6 percent annually. A fixed rate option starts at 8.5 percent per annum. These new rates apply to new car purchases and depend on the borrower's credit profile. Borrowers also enjoy zero prepayment charges on floating rate loans.
Published on: February 9, 2026
Moody's Ratings projects a stable outlook for India's banking sector, anticipating a low non-performing asset ratio of 2-2.5% over the next 12-18 months. Robust economic growth, projected at 6.4% for FY26-27, will underpin solid fundamentals and stable profitability, with loan growth expected to keep pace with deposits.
Published on: February 9, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India has issued new guidelines for micro and small enterprises. Banks can now accept gold and silver as collateral for loans up to a certain limit. This move aims to support these businesses. Collateral-free loans will be available up to Rs 20 lakh. The revised rules apply from April 1, 2026.
Published on: February 9, 2026
Indian banks are witnessing a strong comeback in corporate lending. Demand is surging from sectors like oil and gas, infrastructure and metals. Companies are increasing capital spending and seeking more working capital. This trend is expected to continue as trade deals boost exports and supply chains.
Published on: February 9, 2026
CreditAccess India BV is looking for new investors. This move aims to provide an exit for long-term shareholders in its microfinance lender, CreditAccess Grameen. The company is open to strategic or financial partners. Some investors have held stakes since 2007 and seek liquidity. CreditAccess Grameen plans significant loan portfolio growth by 2028.
Published on: February 8, 2026
CreditAccess India, owner of CreditAccess Grameen, is seeking new investors. This move aims to provide liquidity for existing shareholders and fuel future growth. CreditAccess Grameen is expanding into new financial services beyond microfinance. The company is focused on sustainable expansion and meeting customer needs in rural and semi-urban markets.
Published on: February 8, 2026
Public sector banks are projected to surpass Rs 2 lakh crore in combined profits this financial year, driven by robust credit and deposit growth. Financial Services Secretary M Nagaraju expressed confidence in the sector's resilience, citing prudent management and strong asset quality.
Published on: February 8, 2026
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the government will soon set up a High-Level Committee on Banking for Viksit Bharat to prepare a roadmap for building large lenders capable of meeting the financing needs of a developed India. She said the panel will suggest steps to strengthen the banking system and expand credit access to support growth.
Published on: February 8, 2026
Walmart-backed PhonePe is preparing for an IPO likely in April, with plans to expand its presence in digital payments while growing its financial services and consumer platforms. The public offer will be entirely an offer for sale of 5.06 crore shares by existing investors, with no fresh issue component, after receiving Sebi approval earlier this year.
Published on: February 8, 2026
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
