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India insurance regulator to oversee smooth transition to new commission rules, chairman says

India's insurance regulator, the IRDAI, plans to implement reforms for insurance sales to improve the market. Proposed changes include capping commissions and tightening expense limits to reduce costs and mis-selling. Ajay Seth stated the intention is to avoid disruption within the industry during this transition period. Insurers and distributors have expressed concerns regarding the potential impacts on business models and job security.

Published on: October 15, 2026


Bank deposits hit record $3 trillion in September, boosted by dollar deposits scheme

India's banking system deposits hit a record high, reaching approximately 284 trillion rupees by September 2023. The increase was primarily driven by a discounted swap window introduced by the Reserve Bank of India. This scheme attracted around $133 billion in foreign-currency deposits from June until its closure in August. Additionally, banks took measures to bolster their funding buffers leading up to the quarter's end. Overall, deposits rose by 8.

Published on: October 15, 2026


Fairfax plans to bring Digit, IIFL Capital under IDBI Bank

Fairfax Financial Holdings plans to bring its interests in Go Digit and IIFL Capital Services under IDBI Bank, creating a financial-services group spanning banking, insurance, investment banking and wealth management. The proposed restructuring follows Fairfax's selection as strategic buyer for a 60.72% stake in the Indian lender for about Rs 52,878 crore.

Published on: October 15, 2026


Canadian billionaire and Asian banking titans find ₹1.32 lakh crore worth of interest in India

In recent months, foreign investment in India’s financial sector has grown significantly, resulting in major acquisitions. Fairfax Financial Holdings secured a large stake in IDBI Bank, while Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group poured resources into Shriram Finance. Additionally, Emirates NBD established a notable presence in RBL Bank. Such initiatives promise to alter the competitive dynamics and improve service capabilities in the Indian banking sector.

Published on: October 15, 2026


Fairfax plans to fold IIFL Capital, Digit into IDBI Bank after Rs 52,878 crore India deal

Fairfax Financial Holdings plans to bring its Indian financial investments under IDBI Bank after India's approval of a Rs 52,878 crore ($5.56 billion) deal for a 60.7% stake in the lender. The proposed restructuring would bring together banking, insurance, investment banking and wealth management, subject to regulatory approvals.

Published on: October 15, 2026


Supreme Court upholds Bombay HC ruling quashing YES Bank's Rs 8,415 crore AT1 bond write-off

The Supreme Court has confirmed the Bombay High Court's verdict that invalidated YES Bank's write-off of AT1 bonds totaling Rs 8,415 crore, part of a March 2020 restructuring plan. Investors, both institutional and retail, took their grievances to the High Court, leading to YES Bank, the RBI, and the Centre appealing this outcome. This ruling now grants bondholders a pathway to recover their investments that were previously at risk.

Published on: October 15, 2026


Canada's Warren Buffett bets his billions on India. What does he see?

Prem Watsa’s Fairfax Financial will acquire a 60.72% stake in IDBI Bank for Rs 52,878 crore, marking India’s largest cross-border banking deal. The Canadian investor plans to build a financial services powerhouse by combining banking with insurance, wealth management and capital markets. But regulatory approvals, overlapping ownership with CSB Bank and execution risks could test his biggest India bet.

Published on: October 15, 2026


ICICI Life bets on women advisors, plans 20,000 hires by FY27

ICICI Life Insurance plans to recruit 20,000 women advisors across India by the end of FY2027 under its Narishakti initiative. Women currently account for around 32% of its advisor base but contribute 45% of agency business. More than 78,000 women advisors were associated with the insurer as of September 30, 2026.

Published on: October 15, 2026


Canara Bank has Rs 47000 crore corporate loan pipeline

Canara Bank has a corporate loan pipeline totaling Rs 47,000 crore amid rising demand from Indian companies. The bank expects credit growth to remain above 19% year-on-year for the upcoming quarter. It reported significant growth in deposits and loans due to a strategy focused on non-resident Indian customers. Management anticipates maintaining a return on assets above 1% despite future provisioning requirements.

Published on: October 15, 2026


Barclays India appoints Bank of America's Sonali Sharma as legal head

Sonali Sharma has been appointed as managing director and head of legal at Barclays India. She previously served as head of legal and general counsel at Bank of America. Her career began as a trainee at Mulla & Mulla before moving to Juris Corp. Sharma has extensive experience in capital markets and risk management. Several banks are bolstering their legal teams in response to regulatory changes.

Published on: October 15, 2026


A $6 bn deal signals major appetite for the India prize as global giants look to deepen exposure

The sale of a controlling stake in IDBI Bank for around $6 billion is being viewed a pivotal moment in India's banking reform journey. The transaction received attention from a variety of global investors, highlighting their confidence in the nation's financial ecosystem. Experts predict this move may open doors to increased deal-making opportunities in the future.

Published on: October 15, 2026


Cabinet clears way for Watsa's Fairfax's Rs 52,878 crore deal for 60.72% stake in IDBI Bank

Fairfax Financial Holdings will acquire a majority stake of 60.72% in IDBI Bank for ₹52,878 crore. This acquisition marks a significant moment in the government's divestment efforts, as it represents strategic restructuring. The deal aims to strengthen the banking ecosystem and support the government's disinvestment target for the fiscal year. IDBI Bank's financial position has improved significantly, with reduced non-performing assets.

Published on: October 15, 2026


Cyberattacks affect 20 financial institutions; CERT-In warns on API vulnerabilities and security measures

Around 20 financial institutions were affected by cyberattacks earlier this month, with hackers allegedly exploiting stolen partner-bank credentials and vulnerabilities in payment APIs to siphon off funds. Following the attacks, CERT-In issued an advisory urging banks, NBFCs and fintech firms to suspend compromised interfaces, strengthen transaction safeguards and tighten customer verification.

Published on: October 14, 2026


Insurers may face higher crop cover claims in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka

In Maharashtra, insurers' liability could be capped at Rs 1,540 crore before the state government takes over claims beyond that level. The state has declared drought-like conditions in 265 talukas, raising concerns over this year's losses.

Published on: October 14, 2026


Fairfax's IDBI deal premium justified by strategic fit, scale: Analysts

Analysts believe this acquisition holds considerable potential, greatly enhancing Fairfax's branch network and deposit portfolio in India, paving the way for a diversified financial ecosystem.

Published on: October 14, 2026


Fairfax offers plan to resolve IDBI-CSB ownership overlapping

A merger of the two lenders is emerging as the most likely option, potentially allowing the Canadian investor to consolidate its banking interests under a single licence, sources said.

Published on: October 14, 2026


Centre approves 60.72% stake sale in IDBI Bank to Fairfax for Rs 52,878 Crore

Published on: October 14, 2026


Stocks Sena launches free stock research platform, raises USD 232,000 at USD 2.32 million valuation

Stocks Sena, a venture co-founded by Krishna Singhal and Pushan Jain, has unveiled an innovative research platform aimed at empowering Indian investors. This website equips users with financial data and stock screening capabilities, granting access to primary-source company disclosures without any subscription fees. Notably, AI tools are designed to simplify complex earnings calls, enhancing comprehension of key financial insights.

Published on: October 14, 2026


IDBI Bank-Fairfax deal: Government to retain 15% stake, LIC to hold 19%

The government will retain a 15% equity stake in IDBI Bank and Life Insurance Corporation will hold 19%. Both the government and LIC will withdraw their nominees from the bank's board and become public shareholders. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has empowered the Alternative Mechanism for minority stake sales of the government's holdings. LIC will manage its residual shareholding as per internal procedures and regulatory compliance.

Published on: October 14, 2026


From SGX Nifty to GIFT Nifty: Understanding the evolution of India's global market indicator

July 2023 heralded an important change for India as it moved from SGX Nifty to GIFT Nifty, a development with major implications for the financial sector. GIFT Nifty aligns with Indian regulations and provides attractive tax incentives for foreign investors. This initiative is intended to strengthen India's financial infrastructure and position it more firmly within the ranks of international financial hubs.

Published on: October 14, 2026


Cabinet approves Rs 52,878 crore IDBI Bank sale to Fairfax arm in India’s largest financial-sector FDI

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the strategic sale of IDBI Bank to a Fairfax Group arm, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said. The government and Life Insurance Corporation of India will retain a combined 34% stake in the restructured entity. Vaishnaw called it India’s largest financial-sector FDI.

Published on: October 14, 2026


Astranova Mobility arm gets NBFC licence, targets Rs 5,000 cr AUM in 5 years

Astranova Mobility's lending subsidiary, Novafusion Capital, receives approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as a Non-Banking Financial Institution (NBFC). The firm targets ₹5000 crore in assets under management (AUM) over the next five years, focusing on India's transition to electric mobility. The company highlights the country's requirement of $100 billion to transition its commercial vehicles to electric mobility.

Published on: October 14, 2026


Paytm's Indian ownership rises to 56%; domestic institutions continue to raise stake

In a notable development, One 97 Communications Ltd., Paytm's parent company, observed a significant rise in domestic share ownership as of Q2 FY 2027. Indian investors now hold over 56% of the firm, which illustrates a positive trend towards local equity involvement. Furthermore, domestic institutional ownership has soared to 29.5%, reflecting heightened engagement from local institutional players. In contrast, foreign direct investment declined to 18.

Published on: October 14, 2026


How GIFT Nifty can help investors understand market trends before the opening bell

GIFT Nifty plays a pivotal role as a futures contract that encapsulates overnight global market shifts. It is essential for estimating the daily opening position of the Nifty 50. Investors analyze the discrepancy between the current GIFT Nifty and its previous close to decipher market trends. Though it offers a directional hint, it is not a guarantee of market behavior.

Published on: October 14, 2026


Nexedge Capital appoints former Avendus Wealth CEO Apurva Sahijwani as co-founder

Nexedge Capital has appointed Apurva Sahijwani, previously with Avendus Wealth Management, as co-founder to strengthen its leadership. It aims to utilise his experience for expanding its presence in India's wealth management sector. Nexedge Capital currently operates in 11 cities and advises more than 1,300 ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families.

Published on: October 14, 2026


Bank of Baroda to defend interests after UAE businessman Shetty files $15 bln suit

Bank of Baroda is contending with a $15 billion lawsuit filed by B.R. Shetty following NMC Health's collapse. Shetty alleges that bank officials facilitated fraudulent transactions and ignored anti-money laundering warnings. The bank is currently pursuing recovery proceedings against Shetty for significant outstanding dues. Bank of Baroda has stated that it has not been served with the lawsuit yet.

Published on: October 14, 2026


States asked to expedite capex loans utilisation

The Department of Expenditure has urged states to expedite their use of interest-free loans for capital investment. With only a quarter of funds allocated utilized, swift action is necessary to meet spending targets. The central government released around ₹51,000 crore under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment by October 1. The department is actively working with states to resolve delays and identify projects.

Published on: October 13, 2026


Jyotiraditya Scindia outlines banking expansion plans for Northeast India at Bankers' Conclave 2.0 in Agartala

Jyotiraditya M. Scindia discussed significant banking developments at the North East Bankers’ Conclave 2.0 in Agartala. He outlined future targets including opening new bank branches and increasing ATM installations in unbanked areas. Collaborative efforts between banks and government were emphasized to enhance development in the Northeast region. The Chief Minister of Mizoram, Lalduhoma, highlighted the importance of banks in creating economic opportunities for citizens.

Published on: October 13, 2026


Former financial services secretary Nagaraju Maddirala appointed IL&FS CMD for two years

Nagaraju Maddirala, previously a financial services secretary, has been appointed Chairman and Managing Director of IL&FS. His appointment was confirmed by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs on October 12 following Nand Kishore's tenure. Maddirala will receive a monthly remuneration of Rs 5.5 lakh along with a company car. IL&FS is currently under a government-appointed board due to previous financial issues.

Published on: October 13, 2026


OnMeta accelerates global expansion; signs MoU with Kazakhstan's QazPost

OnMeta has signed a memorandum of understanding with QazPost to explore digital financial solutions. This collaboration aims to integrate OnMeta's digital infrastructure with QazPost's extensive distribution network.

Published on: October 13, 2026


RBL Bank expects margins to moderate next quarter as FCNR deposits flow through, says CEO Subramaniakumar

RBL Bank reported a significant increase in net profit for the September quarter of 2026. The bank achieved a 37% growth in net interest income, achieving Rs 2,131 crore. Net advances grew by 42%, while deposits rose by 34%, supported by FCNR(B) inflows. However, margins are expected to moderate as these deposits fully impact the balance sheet.

Published on: October 13, 2026


IHC, First Abu Dhabi eye stake in Bandhan Bank promoter

Early investors GIC & IFC jointly hold 30% in Bandhan Financial Services (BFSL), keen to exit. PE funds tapped too to gauge strategic interest. BFSL, led by Bandhan founder Chandra Shekhar Ghosh, has been working with advisers Jefferies to find strategic investors for 25-32%.

Published on: October 13, 2026


IRDAI may allow transition period for insurance fee cap

IRDAI Chairman Ajay Seth said the regulator is examining industry feedback on a consultation paper that is open until October 25, while maintaining that distribution costs must be aligned with the value delivered to the policyholder, and selling incentives must reward persistency rather than first-year sales.

Published on: October 12, 2026


Banks seek clarification on implementation of RBI forex measures

Indian lenders have requested clarification from the Reserve Bank of India regarding new currency-supporting measures. They seek guidance on calculating the foreign exchange risk reserve and its impact on liquidity ratios. Additionally, banks are uncertain about cost transmission to customers and how exposure limits are assessed. Clarifications on the treatment of cash reserves and their classification as high-quality liquid assets have also been requested.

Published on: October 12, 2026


CreditAccess Grameen to raise $175 million overseas loans from DBS, Standard Chartered and others

CreditAccess Grameen is in the process of securing a $175 million loan from several international lenders. This funding will help enhance the company's liability profile and is essential for financial management. The company intends to raise a significant portion of its annual borrowing requirements through external commercial borrowings. Financial officials noted that current hedging costs are rising but manageable overall.

Published on: October 12, 2026


HDFC Bank launches festival offer with host of benefits

HDFC Bank announced the launch of its annual festival offer, with thousands of deals across various services to provide customers with affordable shopping offers. The intitiative would allow customers to save up to ₹70,000 on festive purchases made using HDFC Bank credit cards and EASYEMI on debit and credit cards. The offer covers Xpress Personal Loans, Xpress Car Loans, and other vehicle loans, home loans, and gold loans.

Published on: October 12, 2026


Banks may explore easier forex hedging amid RBI curbs

The Reserve Bank of India has implemented fresh regulations that drastically reduce the maximum limit for dollar forward transactions by corporates from $100 million to just $5 million, imposing more stringent documentation requirements. To ease compliance, companies may consider classifying contracted exposures as anticipated exposures. This regulatory shift aims to enhance management of exchange rate risks in light of volatile market conditions, sparking ongoing industry dialogues about its practical impacts.

Published on: October 11, 2026


DBS Chief sees overseas confidence in India despite capital outflow concerns

DBS Bank CEO Tan Su Shan emphasized the strong demand for FCNR(B) deposits as investor confidence in India. She highlighted India's potential for foreign direct investment and its advantageous position in the artificial intelligence sector. Despite foreign net sales affecting the rupee, she remains optimistic about India's economic growth and digital infrastructure. Tan discussed the importance of promoting FDI and exports to stabilize currency levels.

Published on: October 11, 2026


IIT-Bombay study bats to cut MDR to 0.08 pc from 0.4 pc, exclude banks from taking bulk share

A report by IIT-Bombay professors recommends reducing the Merchant Discount Rate for UPI transactions to improve the ecosystem. The current rate of 0.40 percent should decrease to 0.08 percent for third-party application providers. Additionally, the study suggests that banks should not depend on transaction fees but use funds from CASA deposits. It emphasizes the development of necessary services to enhance trust in digital payments.

Published on: October 11, 2026


UPI MDR framework needs rationalisation to protect public trust: IIT Bombay report

The report cautioned that public trust in UPI could be undermined if the proposed MDR framework is implemented in its present form, stressing the need to ensure that the digital payments platform does not attract negative sentiment among users.

Published on: October 11, 2026


DBS CEO cites FCNR(B) success as proof of global faith in India, calls for more FDI

DBS Bank CEO Tan Su Shan addressed concerns about capital outflows from India and highlighted strong demand for FCNR(B) deposits. She emphasized the need for more foreign direct investment and exports to support the rupee's stability. Tan expressed optimism about India's potential in artificial intelligence due to its software talent and digital infrastructure developments. The importance of improving hardware capabilities alongside software strengths was also noted in her discussion.

Published on: October 11, 2026


PNB Housing sees 5-8 bps NIM gain from RBI rate hike, says CEO Ajai Shukla

PNB Housing Finance anticipates a minor enhancement in net interest margin due to the Reserve Bank's recent rate hike. The lender's margin improvement is expected to be between 5 to 8 basis points and will benefit customers through cheaper loans. The company is also experiencing positive demand momentum in the housing finance sector. Additionally, PNB Housing Finance has received a credit rating upgrade to AAA/Stable from Crisil.

Published on: October 11, 2026


RBI raises average CRR maintenance requirement for banks

The Reserve Bank of India will raise the minimum daily cash reserve ratio requirement to 99% from 90%. This change will take effect from mid-October, specifically the fortnight starting October 16, 2026. Banks will be required to maintain this increased percentage without the previous operational flexibility. The move aims to reduce the current surplus liquidity within the banking system.

Published on: October 9, 2026


Ageas Federal launches multi-currency life insurance plan at GIFT City

Ageas Federal Life Insurance has launched its first GIFT City product, a multi-currency ULIP that lets customers invest in US dollars, euros or pounds while receiving life cover. The Aurum Advantage Plan is open to customers of any nationality, including NRIs, OCIs and PIOs, with a minimum investment of $3,000, €3,000 or £3,000.

Published on: October 9, 2026


CEA Nageswaran pitches for MSME-specific approach to NPA classification norms

V Anantha Nageswaran emphasized the need to revise non-performing asset classification norms for micro, small and medium enterprises. He highlighted that existing norms do not consider diverse cash flow cycles and working capital requirements. The Chief Economic Advisor pointed out that a uniform global framework is unsuitable for India’s business practices. Additionally, he suggested reducing compliance costs for MSMEs to improve their operational efficiency.

Published on: October 9, 2026


Crude oil, uneven monsoon pose risk to banks despite benign asset quality: Report

Higher crude oil prices and drought conditions in five states may impact Indian banks' asset quality outlook. This follows a stable credit cost scenario for private and public sector banks. The report suggests monitoring external factors affecting borrowers' repayment capacity. While deposit growth has improved, there are risks to profitability and net interest margins. Investors are advised to keep an eye on these developments in the coming quarters.

Published on: October 9, 2026


Bank profits may rise 25% in Q2FY27, margins to recover gradually in second half: Report

According to a report by Emkay Research, Indian banks might report a 25.4 percent year-on-year increase in net profit. Higher foreign currency deposits could exert pressure on lending margins, impacting profitability. Loan growth remains healthy, contributing to income increases and reduced provisions for loan losses. Overall banking system growth is anticipated to moderate as FCNR-B funding normalizes.

Published on: October 9, 2026


IRDAI may roll out insurance commission caps from January, overhaul distribution rules

India's insurance regulator is planning significant reforms to the insurance distribution system, aiming for implementation soon. Proposed changes include capping commissions for brokers and reducing management expenses over time. These measures could substantially impact insurance-linked stocks and potentially affect up to one million jobs in the sector. Insurers and brokers have time to submit responses to the consultation paper until October 25.

Published on: October 9, 2026


Surging bond yields likely to slash banks' treasury income

Banks are expected to report a nearly 60% decline in treasury income for the July-September quarter. Analysts predict treasury gains to decrease from ₹13,100 crore last year to ₹5,500 crore this year. Rising government bond yields have negatively impacted investment portfolios, leading to lower gains. Public sector banks will feel a more pronounced effect due to their larger government securities portfolios.

Published on: October 8, 2026


Keep UPI free, govt should withdraw proposed charges: GTRI

The Global Trade Research Initiative has urged the government to withdraw the proposed UPI charges set for October 15. Introducing fees on UPI transactions may adversely affect small businesses and consumer spending. Maintaining free UPI supports broader digital payments and benefits banks and payment apps. The anticipated changes could lead to higher prices for consumers and reduced earnings for merchants.

Published on: October 8, 2026