Bandhan Bank has denied reports of acquisition-related discussions with First Abu Dhabi Bank, calling its reference in a news report factually "incorrect". The lender said it was not involved in any such discussions or proposal.
Public sector banks are experiencing stronger net interest margin growth compared to their private counterparts this quarter. Despite facing margin pressures, private banks continue to show growth in profits and loan portfolios. The rising costs associated with funding and foreign currency deposits are impacting private banks' profitability. Corporate loan advances are increasing faster than retail loans across multiple private institutions.
Reserve Bank Deputy Governor Poonam Gupta indicated that India's real GDP growth fell short due to external shocks. She highlighted that India has managed over 7 percent growth despite challenging circumstances in recent years. Additionally, Gupta expressed confidence that improved global conditions could enhance growth by another percentage point. She discussed the importance of diversifying economic activities to mitigate risks and emphasized that food security remains stable amid El Nino.
Regional rural banks are set to improve their cyber security through the establishment of cyber security operations centres. They will also develop capabilities for vulnerability assessments and incident response as part of the reform agenda. The Financial Stability and Development Council plans to enhance cyber security measures following previous ransomware attacks. New initiatives will include implementing enterprise data warehouse solutions for better data management and reporting.
HDFC Bank and Axis Bank together accounted for nearly 43% of the net additions during September, adding 539,878 cards between them. The two private sector lenders emerged as the largest contributors to fresh additions, followed by SBI Cards.
Geopolitical risks and supply-chain disruptions are major barriers to private sector capital expenditure growth. A survey indicates that banks anticipate over 9% growth in industrial credit in the coming months. Public sector banks exhibit greater concern over these risks compared to private and foreign banks. Key sectors expected to experience credit demand include infrastructure and auto components.
Police said the bank management had suspended several employees, including the branch manager, and a case was registered at the Beta-2 police station, which has jurisdiction over the branch. The bank has assured authorities that it will address the customers’ complaints, officials said.
Facing an anticipated Rs 200 crore dip in income from proposed cuts to insurance commissions, Bandhan Bank's managing director, Partha Pratim Sengupta, warns of potential ripple effects across the banking industry. To counter these challenges, the bank is set to reshape its business model and focus on enhancing mutual fund distribution. Moreover, its limited exposure to drought-impacted regions in Karnataka and Maharashtra helps mitigate overall financial risks.
India's banking sector exhibits confidence in achieving sustained double-digit credit growth across various segments. Demand for retail and SME lending is primarily driving this credit growth, according to the FICCI-IBA Bankers' Survey. Respondents show optimism about the emerging revival in private-sector capital expenditure and improved asset quality. A significant majority anticipates that both retail loans and SME credit will continue to grow robustly.