INDIAS BANKING REFORMS
FCNR(B) scheme has bought India 3-5 years, but $170 billion repayment cliff looms: Uday Kotak
Uday Kotak has described India’s $130-billion-plus FCNR(B) mobilisation as a “strong insurance policy” against global shocks, but warned that repayments including interest could reach $160-170 billion over the next three to five years. He said the buffer gives India time to strengthen its economy, but should not substitute for structural reforms, investment in technology and efforts to improve domestic competitiveness.
Insurance commission: IRDAI extends time for feedback to October 31
The regulator is engaging with different stakeholder groups and has not reached a conclusion on the proposals, IRDAI chairman Ajay Seth had said recently. The objective is to move towards a more efficient regime without disrupting existing businesses or livelihoods. Some stakeholders have sought a longer transition period, while others have raised concerns about low-ticket policies, Seth had said. Larger insurers, smaller companies and new entrants have different concerns, as do various categories of insurance distributors.
AI driven cyberattacks pose growing threat to capital markets, warns NSE's Ashish Chauhan
During the ANMI convention in Mumbai, Ashish Kumar Chauhan stressed the urgent need to address AI-driven cyber risks threatening the financial sector. He urged collaboration among market players to build a strong defense against such advanced threats. Chauhan also highlighted the necessity of regulatory reforms to safeguard market integrity and investor confidence, noting the impressive growth of India's capital markets, which now boast a market capitalization that surpasses banking credit.
Target reached, but asset monetisation to continue: DIPAM secretary Arunish Chawla
"We have already identified a cluster of 10 national highways, which will provide the underlying capital asset. So, the second public InvITs is in the works and hopefully before the close of this financial year, it will also come to fruition," Chawla said. "We are also bringing down the equity (stake) in nationalised banks gradually to the minimum public shareholding norm of 75%, that is part of the mandate that we have to share the wealth with the people and also in line with regulations...we are moving ahead on that path."
- Go To Page 1
The age-old business of liberation & salvation
Moksa, or spiritual investment, mirrors historical practices like indulgences sold by the Church five centuries ago. Islamic finance offers similar concepts, rebranding interest-based transactions while still capitalizing on profit. In India, wealth managers curate portfolios aligned with moral principles while sidelining ethical considerations about labor. Temple towns, including Tirupati, create systems where money enhances access to religious experiences for the wealthy.
FSDC stresses on vigilance, reforms amid global uncertainty & AI boom
Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman led an important session of the Financial Stability and Development Council, focusing on maintaining financial stability amidst looming geopolitical tensions and fluctuating global bond yields. Key topics included fostering a robust domestic investment climate, ensuring effective capital movement for reform, and addressing cybersecurity needs within the financial sector.
Reinventing the pond: How this Bengal start-up is helping fish farmers battle climate and credit crisis
At a time when climate change is impacting world resources, including the aquatic system, Jalpaiguri’s Essential Aquatech is working to empower smallholder fish farmers by turning data into actionable insights and measures.
From Dhirubhai to Akash Ambani, Reliance made stocks popular with Indians
Jio Platforms’ IPO is putting the Ambani family’s relationship with India’s retail investors on a new footing, almost five decades after Dhirubhai Ambani took Reliance Textile Industries public in 1977. The Rs 30,213-crore issue was fully subscribed within two hours of opening, but Jio’s long-term success as a listed company will depend on whether it can turn its massive telecom and digital reach into sustained earnings growth and investor returns.
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.
Lula vs Bolsonaro: As Brazil lies on the brink of tilting right, India watches its major BRICS partner
Flávio Bolsonaro secured leading votes against incumbent Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in Brazil's elections on October 4. The runoff on October 25 could solidify right-wing power across South America, following a regional trend. Lula aims to reduce economic inequality while Bolsonaro focuses on crime and spending cuts. India is observing the elections closely due to its strategic partnership with Brazil in various sectors.
Correcting rupee against fundamentals ultimately futile, says RBI's ex-guv Subbarao
D Subbarao advocates for allowing the rupee to find its level based on economic fundamentals. He criticizes costly short-term measures that do not address structural issues behind capital outflows. The rupee's recent recovery followed the Reserve Bank of India's measures to reduce dollar demand. Subbarao highlights the importance of tax reforms to attract foreign investment in India.
NBFC stocks in focus: Rising funding costs threaten margins despite robust loan growth and asset quality
The non-banking financial companies (NBFC) sector is set to enjoy robust earnings, thanks to strong credit demand and consistent asset quality. Nonetheless, the latter half of Financial Year 2026-27 could pose challenges with rising interest rates leading to higher funding costs. Analysts emphasize that successfully managing these costs will be key to sustaining growth, advising cautious investment in resilient NBFCs amid changing market dynamics.
Ex-IMF Director KV Subramanian dismisses Pakistan's global financial leadership claim
Krishnamurthy V Subramanian has criticized Pakistan's claim of returning to global financial leadership. He clarified that the IMF and World Bank chair is ceremonial and rotates annually among member countries. Pakistan is set to assume this position for the first time since 1953 in 2027. The country's economy has been dependent on loans from the IMF to address financial challenges.
‘For global trade’s sake, hope our US deal is inked soon’: FM Nirmala Sitharaman
Nirmala Sitharaman expressed optimism regarding the speedy conclusion of the India-US trade agreement during her recent interaction. She highlighted challenges in trade relations with China due to non-tariff barriers causing problems for Indian exporters. The Finance Minister advocated for promoting rupee-denominated trade settlements to assist nations experiencing hard currency shortages. Sitharaman emphasized the importance of public investment in infrastructure to bolster economic growth despite global disruptions.
'India needs 8-9% growth to become a developed nation by 2047'
India aims to become a $30 trillion economy by 2047, from its current size of around $4 trillion. The country's gross domestic product (GDP) grew 7.8% in the June quarter, exceeding expectations.
Nirmala Sitharaman pitches for public, private capital to build financially sustainable cities
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the importance of creating sustainably investable cities in India. She proposed a combination of public investment alongside private capital to achieve these goals. Various urban development initiatives have been established to support this approach effectively. The Urban Challenge Fund aims to improve municipal finances and is pivotal for project preparation. Overall, the strategies discussed will enhance urban planning and infrastructure development throughout the country.
India’s digital public infrastructure among world’s 10 most effective reforms: Report
India's Digital Public Infrastructure has been recognized as one of the top ten effective reforms globally. This infrastructure, particularly Aadhaar and the Unified Payments Interface, supports financial inclusion and reduces transaction costs. It facilitates greater integration of micro, small, and medium enterprises into the formal economy. Institutional coordination and interoperability have played crucial roles in its success and development.
World Bank should focus on mobilising greater private capital and creating jobs, says FM Sitharaman
Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the importance of private capital in creating jobs and boosting productivity during her address. She outlined six priorities for the World Bank Group to enhance its development impact, integrating private sector engagement. Sitharaman highlighted the need for affordable financing and addressing market failures to foster job creation. She advocated for a review of governance indicators to better represent developing countries.
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.
IMF applauds India’s GDP data revamp, says currency pain is no sign of failure as country entered energy shock with strong fundamentals
The International Monetary Fund has raised India's growth forecast to 7% for this year and next. India is seen as having strong fundamentals which allow it to manage external pressures effectively. The exchange rate fluctuations are not indicative of economic failure according to IMF officials. Structural reforms and domestic demand contribute to India's resilience in the global economy. However, risks such as geopolitical tensions and fiscal pressures remain present.
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.
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.
World Bank Group mobilizes $36 billion in India for development and job creation over four years
The World Bank Group has mobilised a cumulative $36 billion in India across various development sectors. This funding includes $9.6 billion specifically for aiding micro, small and medium enterprises. Since 2022, the World Bank has invested over $3.5 billion alongside private partners to enhance MSME bankability. The group's global private capital mobilisation has more than tripled, reaching $112 billion in fiscal 2026.
'INDI alliance parties ruined PSBs': Sitharaman responds to Akhilesh's 'Season End Sale' remarks on IDBI-Fairfax deal
Finance Minister Sitharaman criticized Akhilesh Yadav's remarks about the IDBI Bank's sale to Fairfax Financial Holdings. She accused Yadav's allies of ruining public sector banks during their tenure in the UPA government. Sitharaman emphasized that the NDA government has revitalized the banking system through transparency and capital infusion. The Cabinet approved the sale of a 60.72 percent stake in IDBI Bank for Rs 52,878 crore.
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.
IDBI Bank strategic restructuring to attract FDI, boost banking sector, says FM Sitharaman
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the strategic restructuring of IDBI Bank to attract foreign investments. The government retains a minority stake in the bank after its recovery, enabling further growth. Fairfax Financial Holdings will acquire a 60.72 percent stake in the bank for Rs 52,878 crore. The transaction aims to strengthen India's banking sector and reduce government ownership of state-run assets.
World Bank helps mobilise $36 billion in private capital to support job creation in India since FY22
Private capital mobilisation by the World Bank Group has grown nearly five-fold in four years, rising from approximately USD 3 billion in FY22 to USD 14.5 billion in FY26 and unlocking a cumulative USD 36 billion for development across sectors, Manuel Reyes-Retana, Division Director, South Asia, IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, said.
Load More
