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No decision yet on merchant discount rate on UPI deals

Central bank governor Sanjay Malhotra stated it is premature to discuss UPI transaction charges. Discussions are ongoing regarding the payment mechanism's future and costs. The government is reportedly amending laws to allow merchant discount rates on select UPI transactions. This move follows Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's introduction of a new bill. The central bank's current focus remains on strengthening UPI adoption across India.

Published on: August 5, 2026


Liquidity to peak in Sept, but big surplus won't last long: RBI

The Reserve Bank of India will absorb surplus liquidity from a special forex swap facility. This absorption will occur through higher currency in circulation and maturing forward positions. Banking system liquidity is expected to peak in September due to FCNR(B) deposit inflows. Economists anticipate a surplus of around ₹4-5 lakh crore in the banking system. The central bank will then begin withdrawing excess liquidity through durable absorption measures.

Published on: August 5, 2026


No case for early closure or extension of swap window: RBI

The Reserve Bank of India will not close the swap window early. Robust foreign currency inflows have strengthened India's balance of payments position. The central bank has not received any proposals for extending the deadline. This facility allows banks to swap overseas borrowings at concessional rates. The swap window has already attracted significant dollar inflows by July.

Published on: August 5, 2026


Regulators weigh bringing insurance surety bonds under RBI's CRILC

Financial regulators are exploring adding insurance surety bond exposures to a central credit database. This move aims to provide banks and rating agencies a clearer view of corporate leverage. Currently, these contingent liabilities often escape regulatory reporting requirements. Many government departments now accept these bonds instead of traditional bank guarantees. Expanding the database will strengthen credit appraisal processes for lenders.

Published on: August 5, 2026


'No US lawsuits filed yet, ready to defend on facts if needed': HDFC Bank CEO clarifies on governance allegations

HDFC Bank assured shareholders about its strong governance credentials. No US lawsuits have been filed against the bank following investigations. The bank's leadership stated they are well-positioned to defend any potential legal action. HDFC Bank is fundamentally strong with a pristine balance sheet. The integration with HDFC Limited is unlocking meaningful synergies for future growth.

Published on: August 5, 2026


Banks welcome RBI's steady rates, see boost to credit growth

The Reserve Bank of India kept its benchmark repo rate steady at 5.25 percent. It also raised its economic growth forecast and lowered inflation projections. Bankers welcomed the policy stability and proposed regulatory measures for transparency. The central bank's decision reflects confidence in the domestic economy's resilience. This move supports credit flow to productive sectors and financial inclusion.

Published on: August 5, 2026


Indian Bank targets Rs 35 lakh crore business by 2032 after crossing Rs 15 lakh crore milestone: MD & CEO

"On 125th year, that means 2032, we have set a target of 35 lakh crore business. In June we are at 15 lakh crore. That means we have to become 2.3 times what we are. We will become a 35 lakh crore bank by 2032 and, with the support the bank is getting from the customers and the hard work of our employees, I am very confident that we will not only achieve, we will surpass that number also," Kumar said.

Published on: August 5, 2026


Urban cooperative bank license applicants need a minimum Rs 300 crore of capital and Rs 10000 crore of deposits, says RBI

The Reserve Bank of India is resuming urban cooperative bank licenses after two decades. Eligible credit societies need a minimum capital of Rs 300 crore and Rs 10,000 crore deposits. Applicants must show positive financial trends and sound credentials over five years. Societies with over ten years of existence and multi-state presence are eligible. The central bank will assess the fit and proper status of directors before approval.

Published on: August 5, 2026


Lower real interest rates have not hurt deposit growth in India: SBI Research

Deposit growth in India improved despite declining real interest rates, according to an SBI Ecowrap report. The report noted that deposit mobilisation remained resilient even with lower real returns. RBI's foreign exchange management enabled recouping foreign exchange reserves and vacating short-term forward positions. The central bank's policy communication showed a predominantly dovish profile, and loan pricing standardization is expected to enhance transparency.

Published on: August 5, 2026


RBI upper-layer NBFC list to come out soon

The Reserve Bank of India will soon release a list of upper-layer NBFCs. New principle-based regulations will classify these financial companies into different layers. Companies in the upper layer will be required to publicly list their shares. Tata Sons may be included on this upcoming list of NBFCs. The central bank has not published this specific list since January 2025.

Published on: August 5, 2026


UPI MDR explained: What potential charges above Rs 2,000 payments on Paytm, GPay & other apps mean for you and merchants

UPI MDR: Government proposes changes to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act. This could allow a Merchant Discount Rate on select UPI transactions. Large merchants and transactions over Rs 2,000 may face new charges. This aims to support payment infrastructure investment and cybersecurity. Most everyday UPI payments are expected to remain free of charges.

Published on: August 5, 2026


RBI to resume urban cooperative bank licensing process after two decades

The Reserve Bank of India will resume issuing new licenses for urban cooperative banks. This process has been paused for over two decades due to past financial instability. Draft guidelines for resuming UCB licensing have now been issued by the central bank. The operating environment for these banks has significantly transformed since 2004. This move follows extensive feedback on a discussion paper concerning UCB licensing.

Published on: August 5, 2026


RBI to resume urban cooperative banks' licensing after 22-year pause, review rural bank rules

The Reserve Bank of India will resume urban cooperative bank licensing after a 22-year pause. A comprehensive review of credit monitoring for rural cooperative banks is also planned. The central bank proposed standardizing lending rate frameworks for greater transparency. These announcements followed the decision to keep the policy repo rate unchanged. India's FY27 GDP growth forecast was raised to 6.7 percent.

Published on: August 5, 2026


IRDAI asks insurers to fast-track Assam flood claims

Insurers must expedite flood claim settlements for affected policyholders. The regulator has directed immediate deployment of surveyors and loss assessors. Special district-level claims desks and 24x7 helplines will be established. Electronic communication is encouraged to speed up claim registration and payments. This directive follows heavy rains and floods which began on July 19.

Published on: August 4, 2026


Microfinance lending dips as uneven monsoon alters the landscape

India's microfinance sector contracted in the first quarter after a previous rebound. Uneven monsoon progress weighed on rural demand and lender caution grew. The sector's portfolio shrank four percent to ₹3.26 lakh crore by June end. Business usually slows during this period, but rainfall added concerns. Lenders remain cautious about growing loans due to uncertain patterns.

Published on: August 4, 2026


Unexercised ESOP buyback gains taxable as LTCG, not salary income: ITAT

The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal determined that employee stock options are not considered part of salary perks until they are exercised. Any gains from the repurchase of options, which have not yet been exercised, are to be taxed as long-term capital gains. This case revolved around a Flipkart executive who received ₹2.33 crore from repurchased stock options, affirming that the options are treated as capital assets.

Published on: August 4, 2026


Need to encourage young adults to buy health cover, says Aditya Birla Health Insurance CEO

For those under thirty-five, acquiring health insurance is vital for managing risks and financial burdens. Despite representing a substantial part of India's population, young adults typically purchase few policies. In response, Aditya Birla Health Insurance is unveiling innovative plans designed specifically for this younger audience. The firm recently experienced a striking fifty percent rise in gross written premium, showcasing the growing relevance of their offerings.

Published on: August 4, 2026


Policybazaar concludes sixth season of Jeeto Apna Ghar rewards programme

Policybazaar celebrated its Jeeto Apna Ghar program's sixth season for sales teams. This initiative now includes services teams, recognizing customer journey excellence. Over fifty houses and thirty-four cars have been awarded since its inception. This season saw ten employees win homes and ten others win cars. The program rewards employees for exceptional customer outcomes and dedication.

Published on: August 4, 2026


HSBC India profit rises 4% to $965 million in H1 2026, corporate and institutional banking drives growth

HSBC India's profit before tax rose four percent in the first half of 2026. Higher revenue from corporate and institutional banking fueled this significant profit increase. The bank's wealth and premier banking division, however, saw profits drop sharply. HSBC India also led in mobilising foreign currency deposits under a special RBI scheme. Globally, HSBC reported a substantial twenty-three percent rise in pre-tax profit.

Published on: August 4, 2026


India paves way for return of merchant fees on digital payments

India has laid the legal groundwork to reintroduce merchant fees on UPI payments through proposed amendments to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act. While no decision has been taken, the government is considering charging MDR only on large merchants or high-value transactions, potentially creating a ₹5,000-10,000 crore revenue pool for payment firms.

Published on: August 4, 2026


Lack of proper training in credit monitoring among reasons for frauds: CVC to banks

The Central Vigilance Commission has advised banks on training to prevent frauds. Lack of proper credit appraisal and monitoring is identified as a key reason for these issues. Banks and financial institutions are urged to conduct training programs focusing on these aspects. This advice comes as part of a preventive vigilance campaign for public administration. The commission seeks action taken reports by November 30.

Published on: August 4, 2026


Indian banks' new hunt for diaspora dollars pumps up loans markets

Indian banks are raising significant dollar funds offshore to boost foreign currency deposits. Global banks are actively arranging these dollar bond and loan deals for Indian lenders. This fundraising effort aims to attract capital from non-resident Indians worldwide. The Reserve Bank of India's measures are fueling this increased demand for dollar debt. Indian banks could raise nearly forty-three billion dollars through offshore loans by 2026.

Published on: August 4, 2026


Payment Bill rekindles MDR hopes for large-value UPI

Proposed amendments to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act may bring back merchant discount rates. This move could help banks and fintech firms recover technology and infrastructure investments. The government is considering reintroducing MDR for UPI transactions with large merchants. These fees might apply to transactions exceeding two thousand rupees. This change aims to create revenue for payment companies while minimizing disruption.

Published on: August 3, 2026


SBI, HSBC lead FCNR(B) deposit mobilisation

Foreign currency deposits have significantly increased following a Reserve Bank of India swap facility. State Bank of India and HSBC are leading banks in this deposit mobilization effort. This scheme aims to attract stable foreign currency inflows into India. The Reserve Bank of India's dollar swap facility received substantial funds till July 31. Overall inflows are projected to reach eighty to eighty-five billion dollars.

Published on: August 3, 2026


Govt introduces bill to modernise bank records law

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the Bankers' Books Evidence Bill, 2026 in Lok Sabha. This proposed legislation aims to update evidence rules for modern digital banking practices. It will replace the outdated Bankers' Books Evidence Act from 1891. The bill expands the definition of bankers' books to include all record formats. This future-ready framework will recognize electronic records and empower the central government.

Published on: August 3, 2026


Credit to tech infrastructure sector doubles in two years

Bank loans for India's technology infrastructure sector have doubled in two years. This growth reflects India's position as a global hub for data centers. Loans to IT services and digital infrastructure rose significantly year on year. This expansion is driven by data centers, GCCs, and IT enabled services. These segments are now showing robust growth in bank credit.

Published on: August 3, 2026


Satin Creditcare Network board approves promoter's equity infusion

The promoter will infuse Rs 100 crore, taking its holding to 38.32% from 36.17%, people aware said. The company board approved the allotment of 38.5 lakh fully convertible warrants at Rs 260 apiece for cash. Satin received 25% of the payment upfront from the promoter, it said in a regulatory filing.

Published on: August 3, 2026


RBI appoints Monisha Chakraborty as executive director

The Reserve Bank of India has appointed Monisha Chakraborty as Executive Director. She will now oversee foreign exchange and financial markets regulation departments. Chakraborty brings over three decades of experience from her career at the central bank. Her previous roles included Chief General Manager-in-Charge in the Department of Supervision. She holds degrees in Economics and Business Economics from Delhi University.

Published on: August 3, 2026


EbixCash World Money's perpetual RBI licence brings trade and family remittances within reach of millions

Under RBI's revised FEMA framework, EbixCash World Money can now move trade payments up to ₹25 lakh and family maintenance remittances, opening a direct, bank-free payments channel for India's MSME economy.

Published on: August 3, 2026


AI makes mistakes, just like humans | PhonePe CPTO Rahul Chari

Published on: August 3, 2026


Surrender and withdrawals as a share of total benefits paid by life insurers rise to 39%

Surrender and withdrawal benefits paid by life insurers have increased significantly. These benefits now exceed maturity benefits paid by the life insurance sector. Policy surrenders are influenced by various factors, including product suitability and affordability. The insurance regulator monitors these trends and takes necessary supervisory measures. IRDAI has established a framework to safeguard policyholders' interests and ensure fair surrender benefits.

Published on: August 3, 2026


'No proposal to change or replace Unified Pension Scheme,' says Finance Minister Sitharaman in Lok Sabha

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman confirmed no changes are planned for the Unified Pension Scheme. This scheme offers assured monthly payouts to Central government employees after retirement. The Unified Pension Scheme was introduced as an option under the National Pension System. It aims to provide adequate retirement benefits and pension predictability for employees. The government has also extended tax benefits and a one-way switch facility to UPS.

Published on: August 3, 2026


Comprehensive health insurance: Navigating childhood illnesses, vaccination support, and kidney function care

Health insurance covers childhood illnesses and their treatments effectively. Vaccination support is a key preventive care strategy for families. Kidney function tests are covered when medically necessary for diagnosis. Reviewing policy sub-limits and network centers is crucial. Family floater plans offer cost-effective comprehensive household coverage.

Published on: August 3, 2026


Equitas to take cautious steps towards universal bank license

Equitas Small Finance Bank is eligible for voluntary transition into a universal lender. The bank is cautious about applying after peers faced regulatory hurdles. This upgrade offers easier lending and capital norms for the institution. Transitioning would also reduce priority sector lending targets significantly. Equitas will take its time to study and apply for this aspiration.

Published on: August 3, 2026


India's bank credit growth remains robust at 18.6% in June 2026; NBFC, retail lending drive momentum: Report

India's average bank credit growth remained robust in June 2026, supported by healthy retail lending and strong credit flow to non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and commercial real estate (CRE), according to a report by Haitong Securities India.

Published on: August 3, 2026


360 ONE Wealth CEO Yatin Shah targets bigger share of India’s ultra-rich

360 ONE WAM Ltd. seeks to grow its market share in India's wealth management sector. The firm currently manages nearly ten percent of the ultra-rich market. Demand for asset management services is soaring across India's wealthiest families. This growth is fueled by company listings and private equity investments. 360 ONE plans to serve a quarter of these families soon.

Published on: August 3, 2026


Banks propose 'Yes-No' prompt for high-risk UPI transfers to curb digital payment frauds

Indian banks are proposing payment app prompts to curb rising digital frauds. This aims to balance fraud prevention with maintaining digital payment convenience. Banks suggest prompts for suspicious transactions, not all payments above a threshold. The Reserve Bank of India is considering these suggestions for new guidelines. This initiative seeks to protect users while preserving digital payment growth.

Published on: August 2, 2026


HDFC, ICICI Bank rates up for dollar deposits

Banks are raising FCNR(B) deposit rates to attract dollars amid global rate increases. ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank have already adjusted their offerings for dollar deposits. Higher overseas borrowing costs and market competition necessitate these rate adjustments. Global benchmark rates have risen since the scheme's operationalization in June. This special scheme for attracting foreign currency closes on September 30.

Published on: August 2, 2026


Corporate, personal loans drive 63% of bank credit growth: SBI research report

Corporate and retail loans fueled bank credit growth during the April-June quarter. Industry and personal loans together accounted for sixty-three percent of this expansion. Petroleum, infrastructure, engineering, and chemicals led industry credit growth significantly. Loans against gold jewellery emerged as the top personal lending contributor. These key sectors drove the overall increase in bank lending.

Published on: August 2, 2026


Shivalik Small Finance Bank completes merger with ManiBhavnam Home Finance

Shivalik Small Finance Bank completed its acquisition of ManiBhavnam Home Finance India Pvt last week. This strategic merger cost the bank nearly one hundred and nine crore rupees. The deal establishes Shivalik's presence in the affordable housing finance market. ManiBhavnam brings a loan book of three hundred and twenty crore rupees to Shivalik. The bank plans fresh capital infusion to continue its growth trajectory.

Published on: August 2, 2026


Bank of Maharashtra slashes home loan rates to 7% with zero processing fees

Bank of Maharashtra has reduced its home loan interest rate to seven percent. This special offer includes a complete waiver of processing and documentation fees. The bank aims to provide attractive financing solutions for its valued customers. This move significantly lowers the monthly installment burden for borrowers. These competitive rates are among the lowest available in the current market.

Published on: August 2, 2026


PNB to hold off on subsidiary monetisation, focus on value creation: MD Ashok Chandra

Punjab National Bank will not monetize subsidiaries soon, focusing on operational strengthening for future value. The bank's capital adequacy exceeds 18 percent, well above regulatory requirements. This strong capitalization means no market fund raising is planned for growth initiatives. PNB expects its net profit to surpass twenty thousand crore rupees this financial year. Loan growth is projected at twelve to thirteen percent while deposits will grow nine to ten percent.

Published on: August 2, 2026


UPI hits record Rs 29.9 lakh crore in July, 23.66 billion transactions

UPI transactions reached a new high of Rs 29.9 lakh crore in July. The volume of these transactions also saw a significant increase during the same month. This growth solidifies UPI's position as India's preferred digital payment method. UPI has expanded its operations to nearly ten international nations.

Published on: August 1, 2026


Centre releases additional Rs 1,09,019 crore tax devolution to states to boost capital spending

The Union government released an additional Rs 1,09,019 crore tax devolution on August 1, 2026. This amount is separate from the scheduled monthly devolution for August. The move aims to strengthen state finances and boost developmental expenditure. Uttar Pradesh received the largest share of this additional fund. Other states like Bihar and Madhya Pradesh also received significant allocations.

Published on: August 1, 2026


Motilal Oswal calls Bloomberg delay on India G-Secs a "temporary operational pause," expects inclusion within months

Motilal Oswal believes Bloomberg's G-Sec inclusion delay is a temporary pause. He cited operational issues and foreign investor onboarding as reasons for the delay. India's debt market remains significant for the medium and long term. Global market volatility and geopolitical instability may have influenced the decision. Foreign investors are returning to Indian equities driven by value buying.

Published on: August 1, 2026


Employees skipping annual health check-ups face nearly threefold higher hospitalisation risk: CII-MediBuddy report

Employees skipping annual health checkups face triple the hospitalization risk. This group also accounts for a large share of insurance claims. Many employees do not receive follow-up guidance after their screenings. Cardiovascular disease and diabetes remain significant health concerns for workers. Organizations must improve health outcomes through continuous and personalized care.

Published on: August 1, 2026


AI set to reshape insurance economics, push industry towards scale, specialisation: Report

Artificial intelligence is set to reshape the economics of the global insurance industry, with carriers, brokers and technology providers that move early potentially gaining a significant competitive edge as AI changes underwriting, distribution, productivity and the pace of innovation, according to a McKinsey report.

Published on: August 1, 2026


Bank credit to industry up 19%, personal loans stay strong

Banking credit to industry saw a robust 19% year-on-year increase. Personal loan growth also remained strong, expanding 16% compared to last year. Loans against gold jewellery surged by 93%, leading personal loan segment growth. Vehicle loans followed with a 17% expansion, while credit card growth decelerated. Education loans maintained strong growth at 13% year-on-year.

Published on: July 31, 2026


PNB raising $1 billion for FCNR on-lending

Punjab National Bank is set to secure a substantial one billion dollars through a five-year loan arrangement. This initiative is being coordinated with international financiers to enhance participation. The loan will be eligible for the Reserve Bank of India's special swap facility. Indian banks are eager to tap into dollar funds to capitalize on overseas client deposits, targeting potential leveraged investors in the forex-deposit program.

Published on: July 31, 2026


FCNR deposits from Indian diaspora in UAE come in big; some say flow could be bigger

UAE is poised to spearhead India's special FCNR(B) deposit scheme, with enticing dollar rates and beneficial tax incentives attracting considerable client interest. Bank officials project that more than ten billion dollars have already been sourced from the UAE. Although operational limitations for bank representatives create hurdles, the robust Indian expatriate community plays a vital role in enhancing contributions to this initiative.

Published on: July 31, 2026