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PNB hikes cybersecurity spend as AI models including Anthropic's Mythos raise risks

Punjab National Bank is boosting its cybersecurity spending by over 50% this financial year. The bank is investing heavily in technology to protect against digital threats, including those posed by advanced AI. This move comes as regulators and banks assess preparedness for AI-related risks. PNB is also accelerating the purchase of security tools and has made its audit process continuous.

Published on: May 6, 2026


J&K Bank posts highest ever annual profit of Rs 2363 crore in FY26

Jammu and Kashmir Bank achieved its highest-ever annual profit of Rs 2,326.47 crore for the financial year 2025-26. This marks a significant year-on-year growth of over 13 percent. The bank also reported a strong quarterly net profit of nearly Rs 800 crore. Despite challenges, the bank demonstrated resilience and sustained improvement in asset quality.

Published on: May 6, 2026


Cabinet clears Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme 5.0 to cushion MSMEs, airlines amid Gulf war

The government has approved a new credit scheme, ECLGS 5.0, to support airlines and small businesses facing economic challenges. This initiative will provide significant additional credit. Two new semiconductor manufacturing units are also set to be established. Additionally, railway infrastructure projects and a ship repair facility have received approval, boosting industrial capacity and employment opportunities across the nation.

Published on: May 6, 2026


Global uncertainties impact gold loan prices; so CSB will remain cautious

In light of recent fluctuations in gold prices prompted by international unrest, CSB Bank is reassessing its approach to gold-backed lending, particularly with gold jewellery. This strategic pivot will see the bank prioritize wholesale and small business loans, anticipating a more measured growth in its gold loan portfolio this year.

Published on: May 5, 2026


Julius Baer names interim India country head as Papneja departs

Julius Baer has appointed Kunal Sumaya as interim country head for India. He will replace Umang Papneja, who is leaving after four years. Papneja will stay until July. Julius Baer is expanding its presence in India, a key growth market. Sumaya, with 17 years at the firm, will focus on onshore growth and the global Indian client base.

Published on: May 5, 2026


Bombay HC quashes FIR against HDFC Bank CEO Sashidhar Jagdishan in Lilavati Trust case

The Bombay High Court has quashed a police complaint against HDFC Bank MD Sashidhar Jagdishan. The court found the FIR to be a counterblast to recovery proceedings. It stated that the complaint lacked justification for investigation. The court also noted the matter stemmed from civil disputes and recovery actions.

Published on: May 5, 2026


Banks cede consumer durable loans to NBFCs as credit cards take over small-ticket financing

Bank loans for washing machines and televisions are falling. Banks are now focusing on credit cards for these purchases. Non-banking finance companies are taking over this market. This trend is driven by the small loan amounts involved. Consumer durable loans represent a tiny fraction of total bank lending. This shift is expected to continue.

Published on: May 5, 2026


PNB Q4 net profit rises 14% YoY to ₹5,225 crore; targets ₹2 lakh crore digital book in FY27

Punjab National Bank is seeing strong digital growth, sanctioning one in three loans digitally and crossing ₹1 lakh crore in digital sanctions. The bank reported a 14% profit jump for the fourth quarter of FY26. PNB anticipates further growth in retail term deposits and aims for a 12-13% credit growth in FY27. Digital transactions now exceed 95% of total transactions.

Published on: May 5, 2026


DFS approves viability plan 2.0 to improve operational efficiency of RRBs

The Department of Financial Services has approved Viability Plan 2.0 for Regional Rural Banks. This three-year plan, from 2025-26 to 2027-28, aims to boost financial stability and operational efficiency. It focuses on four key pillars: operational excellence, asset quality, profitability, and growth. The plan will monitor critical metrics like CRAR and digital adoption.

Published on: May 5, 2026


Banks record robust 15.9% credit growth in FY26: Finance Ministry

Indian banks saw strong credit growth of 15.9 percent in the 2025-26 fiscal year. This reflects a vibrant economy and high demand for loans. Services, personal loans, agriculture, and industry all contributed to this expansion. The Finance Ministry highlighted India's resilience as the world's fastest-growing major economy amidst global challenges.

Published on: May 5, 2026


CSB Bank cautious on gold loans, focuses on wholesale business, says MD Pralay Mondal

CSB Bank, a lender backed by Prem Watsa, is adopting a cautious stance on gold loans following global uncertainties. The bank intends to shift its focus towards wholesale and small business lending. Having completed its digital transformation, CSB Bank is now poised to expand its product offerings.

Published on: May 5, 2026


Govt clears ₹18,100 crore ECLGS 5.0 to unlock ₹2.55 lakh crore credit for MSMEs, airlines

The Union Cabinet has approved Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme 5.0. This scheme will support businesses facing liquidity issues. It offers credit guarantee coverage for MSMEs and non-MSMEs. The airline sector also receives support. This initiative aims to maintain operations and protect jobs. It ensures continuity in domestic production amid global disruptions.

Published on: May 5, 2026


UDGAM portal facilitates users to search unclaimed deposits across multiple banks: RBI to SC

The submissions were made before a bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and Vijay Bishnoi which was hearing a plea filed by journalist Sucheta Dalal seeking a direction to set up a mechanism to inform the legal heirs of deceased depositors about the unclaimed deposits lying dormant in bank accounts.

Published on: May 5, 2026


HC quashes Lilavati Trust's bribery case against HDFC Bank CEO

The Bombay High Court has dismissed a bribery case against HDFC Bank MD Sashidhar Jagdishan. The court ruled the complaint was a reaction to the bank's efforts to recover over Rs 65 crore. It cited strained relations between hospital trustees as a factor. The court found no justification for the bribery allegations.

Published on: May 5, 2026


No systemic risk to BFSI sector; may see short-term slowdown in loan growth: Deepak Parekh

Industry veteran Deepak Parekh stated the banking and financial services sector is not facing major systemic risks from global geopolitical uncertainties. He anticipates a short-term slowdown in loan growth. Real estate investment trusts are growing in India. Insurance penetration remains low. Deposit mobilization has moderated as retail investors favor mutual funds. Artificial intelligence's impact on finance is still evolving.

Published on: May 5, 2026


Star Health aims Gross Written Premium of Rs 24,000 crore in FY27: MD

Star Health aims for Rs 24,000 crore in Gross Written Premium this fiscal, up from Rs 20,400 crore last year, with plans to launch two affordable products for smaller towns. The company, targeting Rs 30,000 crore by FY28, saw significant claim settlements in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, boosting regional GWP and policy numbers.

Published on: May 5, 2026


RBI rate cuts partly passed on to borrowers in FY26, lending rates fall but not fully: Report

RBI's repo rate cuts in FY26 were only partially passed on to borrowers, with lending rates declining but not matching the full policy reduction. While weighted average lending rates fell by 93 basis points, the transmission varied across bank types and loan segments, leading to estimated borrower savings of Rs 19,000 crore.

Published on: May 5, 2026


Adani, Arcelor among firms setting up treasury operations in GIFT City, sources say

Major firms like Adani, Bharti Airtel, Genpact, and ZF Friedrichshafen are setting up treasury operations in India's GIFT City. This tax-neutral finance zone offers cheaper funding and lower taxes on remitting dividends. Seventeen corporate treasuries are expected to begin operations in the next three months. This move aims to rival financial hubs like Singapore and Dubai, attracting global capital management.

Published on: May 5, 2026


Third party premiums take the wheel in motor cover growth

TP premiums rose 9.3% in FY26, compared with 9% growth in OD, taking overall motor insurance expansion to about 9% on an estimated base of ?1.08 lakh crore. This contrasts with FY24, when OD grew a stronger 17.4% against roughly 10% for TP, supported by robust vehicle sales and pricing improvements. In FY25, OD grew at 8.1% while TP grew at 7.8%. The latest shift comes despite no increase in regulated TP premium rates since the pandemic.

Published on: May 3, 2026


Public sector banks rush to build up wealth management assets

The move is aimed at improving customer engagement as household savings shift from bank deposits to market-linked instruments and risk products. Indian Bank plans to set up a wealth management vertical targeting high net worth individuals, while sectoral leader State Bank of India aims to grow its wealth assets under management fivefold to Rs 15 lakh crore by 2030.

Published on: May 3, 2026


Mobile money doubles to $2 trillion in 4 years as digital payments surge globally: Report

Global mobile money transactions surpassed $2 trillion in 2025, doubling in value within four years. This growth is fueled by increased user activity and a shift towards everyday merchant payments, which saw a 42% rise. Providers are also expanding into savings and insurance, boosting sector profitability despite ongoing regulatory and fraud challenges.

Published on: May 3, 2026


Punjab & Sind Bank aims to cross total business milestone of Rs 3 lakh cr in FY27

Punjab & Sind Bank is targeting a significant milestone of Rs 3 lakh crore in total business by the end of the current financial year. This ambitious goal is driven by expected loan growth and deposit expansion. To fuel this expansion, the bank plans to raise substantial funds through equity and debt issuances.

Published on: May 3, 2026


Central Asia's VC ecosystem hits record $320 million in 2025 but faces a critical pipeline, capital gap: Report

Central Asia's venture capital funding hit a record USD 320 million in 2025. This growth was boosted by two major deals. However, the region faces a substantial capital gap and needs more startups to invest in. Cross-border integration is increasing. Systemic reforms are crucial for future growth and to avoid stagnation.

Published on: May 3, 2026


Centre allows 100% FDI in insurance via auto route

"Foreign investment in this sector shall be subject to compliance with the provisions of the Insurance Act, 1938(4 of 1938), and the condition that companies receiving FDI shall obtain necessary licence or approval from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India to undertake insurance and related activities," the notification stated.

Published on: May 2, 2026


India notifies 100% foreign investment in insurance sector, LIC limit stays at 20%

The central government has notified 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in insurance companies under the automatic route, allowing foreign investors to fully invest in the sector without prior approvals, according to a report by ET Now citing agencies.

Published on: May 2, 2026


Axis Bank opens its first digital locker-focussed branch

Axis Bank has opened its first digital locker branch in New Delhi. This new facility aims to provide advanced security and customer experience through automated locker services. The bank is responding to a growing demand for safe deposit lockers, especially in urban areas. Industry estimates predict a significant increase in locker requirements by 2030.

Published on: May 2, 2026


Banking panel to tackle PSUs' balance sheet constraints, boost capital use: DFS Secretary M Nagaraju

A new committee will examine public sector banks' capital needs. India aims to boost its corporate bond market, allowing more companies access to funds. This initiative seeks to ensure capital reaches all borrowers, including small businesses and farmers, at competitive rates. Better regulation is emphasized for financial markets.

Published on: May 1, 2026


NFRA sets up 4 separate functional divisions

The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is stepping up its game with the launch of four specialized divisions that will focus on monitoring, oversight, investigation, and disciplinary actions. Prompted by a recent Delhi High Court judgment regarding its authority, this strategic reorganization emphasizes independence among its units.

Published on: May 1, 2026


Banks not getting expected benefits from AI due to outdated systems: McKinsey

While banks are championing artificial intelligence with hefty investments, the anticipated benefits are falling short. According to a McKinsey report, legacy systems are stifling AI innovation. The core problem is the tendency to tack AI onto existing modes of operation rather than reinventing them.

Published on: May 1, 2026


West Asia conflict may trigger $800 bn capex boost for India, but oil and fertiliser risks remain: Morgan Stanley

The ongoing conflict in West Asia could emerge as both a challenge and an opportunity for India, with global brokerage Morgan Stanley projecting a sharp rise in domestic investments across energy, defence, fertilisers and data infrastructure, even as the country grapples with elevated risks from oil and fertiliser imports.

Published on: May 1, 2026


RBI's ECL norms may cause up to 120 bps one-time hit for banks: Crisil

Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) proposed shift to an expected credit loss (ECL) framework could lead to a one-time net impact of up to 120 basis points (bps) on banks' Common Equity Tier-1 (CET-1) ratios, though the overall credit profiles of lenders are expected to remain stable says Crisil Ratings.

Published on: May 1, 2026


Rush to take Rs 1 crore health cover as premiums shed tax load

Indians are increasingly opting for health insurance policies of ₹1 crore and above, driven by rising medical costs and greater awareness. Insurers report a significant acceleration in this trend, with customers willing to stretch premiums for higher benefits, especially after GST-related pricing changes made larger covers more accessible.

Published on: April 30, 2026


Federal Bank to acquire 4.5 lakh Standard Chartered card portfolio

Federal Bank is set to acquire a significant credit card portfolio from Standard Chartered Bank. This deal involves approximately 450,000 cards. The acquisition will boost Federal Bank's existing credit card base. It will also strengthen its presence in major Indian cities. The transaction is expected to conclude by the end of 2026.

Published on: April 30, 2026


SBI promotes 8 CGMs as DMDs in annual reshuffle

State Bank of India has elevated eight Chief General Managers to Deputy Managing Director positions. These promotions align with the bank's annual cycle. New DMDs are being assigned departments as existing officials retire. Several retirements are scheduled between June and September. This strategic move ensures continuity in leadership across key banking functions.

Published on: April 30, 2026


Audit watchdog to split disciplinary & probe functions, set up 4 divisions

The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is restructuring its operations by creating separate wings for investigation and disciplinary functions. This move aims to prevent perceived conflicts of interest and ensure procedural fairness, following a Delhi High Court directive. The new setup involves four distinct divisions for monitoring, investigation, determination of misconduct, and disciplinary action.

Published on: April 30, 2026


FinMin asks banks to adopt MuleHunter AI tool of RBI to check cyber frauds

Financial Services Secretary M Nagaraju urged banks to adopt the RBI's MuleHunter AI tool to combat financial cyber frauds and mule accounts. A meeting reviewed digital fraud trends and emphasized strengthening coordinated efforts between law enforcement and banks, including real-time intelligence sharing, to enhance customer protection.

Published on: April 30, 2026


Banks create buffers to cover war-related credit risks

Indian banks are strengthening their finances. They are creating special funds to handle risks from the West Asia crisis. This proactive step aims to protect against potential credit issues. Banks like Axis Bank, Union Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank, and Indian Bank are setting aside significant amounts. This move ensures resilience and prudent risk management amid global uncertainties.

Published on: April 30, 2026


Fino eyes asset-light, tech-led small finance bank

Fino Payments Bank is moving forward with its plan to become a small finance bank. The bank will focus on technology and secured lending, avoiding a traditional branch model. This transition is on track despite ongoing leadership reviews. Fino aims to offer home loans, gold loans, and business loans.

Published on: April 30, 2026


Standard Chartered to sell bulk of Indian credit cards to Federal Bank

Standard Chartered is selling a significant portion of its Indian credit card portfolio to Federal Bank. This move aligns with Standard Chartered's strategy to concentrate on its wealth management business in India. The deal is expected to be finalized by the end of 2026. Federal Bank views this acquisition as a valuable expansion of its retail credit operations.

Published on: April 30, 2026


First-time borrowers climb to 4.4 crore despite tighter lending norms: Report

India's new borrowers have reached 4.4 crore, boosting credit growth and financial inclusion. Lenders are more selective, yet this segment remains vital. Women's participation is increasing significantly. Consumer durable loans are the main entry point. Many new borrowers show strong repayment discipline. This trend highlights scalable growth opportunities in emerging areas and among younger people.

Published on: April 30, 2026


Federal Bank to acquire StanC India credit card portfolio

Federal Bank is set to acquire a significant credit card portfolio of approximately 4.5 lakh cards from Standard Chartered Bank, India. This strategic move aims to bolster Federal Bank's existing card base, particularly in top Indian cities, and enhance its presence among urban, financially active consumers. The deal is expected to conclude by the end of 2026.

Published on: April 30, 2026


India’s credit card market expands to 119 million, PSU banks gain in spends

India's credit card market has surpassed 119 million cards. HDFC Bank, SBI Cards, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank dominate this sector. HDFC Bank is expanding its lead in both card numbers and spending value. Public sector banks are showing strong growth, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 markets. This expansion is driven by wider networks and partnerships.

Published on: April 29, 2026


Banks allowed to offer natural calamity relief suo motu from July 1

The Reserve Bank of India is enabling banks to provide immediate relief to borrowers impacted by natural disasters. Banks can now offer rescheduling, moratoriums, and additional finance without waiting for borrower requests. The implementation of a new resolution framework has been postponed to July 1. This move aims to support those facing financial stress due to weather-related disruptions.

Published on: April 29, 2026


Banks asked to expand digital infra for last-mile reach

Financial services secretary M Nagaraju on Wednesday reviewed the progress of financial inclusion schemes with public sector banks (PSBs) and major private banks.

Published on: April 29, 2026


Finance Secretary reviews PSU insurance strategy

Financial services secretary M Nagaraju reviewed strategy documents for four public sector insurance companies. He directed them to boost investment opportunities and cut loss ratios. The companies must also maintain market share. Strengthening retail portfolios and expanding presence in rural and semi-urban areas are key priorities. These steps aim to enhance their overall performance and reach.

Published on: April 29, 2026


UCO Bank sees no MSME stress from US tariffs, Iran war

The public sector bank's chief executive, Ashwani Kumar, told ET that its loan portfolio performance behaviour is healthy on a year-on-year basis. The bank's special mention accounts in the MSME portfolio having exposure of ₹1 crore and above reduced to 1.05% of the MSME loan book in March, at ₹487 crore, as against ₹582 crore in December 2025, he said.

Published on: April 29, 2026


FinMin asks banks to take measures for welfare of persons with disabilities

Public sector banks and financial institutions are now required to offer reservations for individuals with benchmark disabilities in direct recruitment and promotions. The Department of Financial Services has issued clear instructions for this implementation. Furthermore, these institutions must hold regular meetings with PwD Employees Welfare Associations to address concerns and ensure their voices are heard.

Published on: April 29, 2026


Social justice ministry spends Rs 2,042 crore on educational schemes in FY-26

The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has allocated over Rs 2,000 crore for educational initiatives benefiting OBC, EBC, and DNT students in the financial year 2025-26. This significant disbursement aims to enhance access to quality education and support academic progress for these communities.

Published on: April 29, 2026


Bank credit growth slows to 15% in first half of April: RBI data

Bank credit growth saw a slowdown to 15 per cent in the fortnight ending April 15. This follows a period of rapid lending ahead of the financial year-end. Despite the recent dip, credit growth has maintained double digits for over seven months. This indicates a sustained revival in demand from both individuals and businesses.

Published on: April 29, 2026


RBI clears Subrat Mohanty’s reappointment as Axis Bank Executive Director for three years

Axis Bank announced a significant development today. The Reserve Bank of India has given its approval for Subrat Mohanty's reappointment. He will continue to serve as Executive Director for another three-year term. This new tenure is set to begin on August 17, 2026. Mohanty's extended role will conclude on August 16, 2029.

Published on: April 29, 2026