HDFC Bank, established in 1994, is a leading private sector bank in India. It offers a wide range of financial products and services, including retail and wholesale banking, treasury, and digital banking solutions. HDFC Bank has a strong presence across India with a vast network of branches and ATMs. It has a reputation for its customer-centric approach, innovative products, and robust technology platforms. The bank has consistently demonstrated strong financial performance and has received numerous awards and recognition for its excellence in banking. HDFC Bank is committed to sustainable growth and social responsibility through its various initiatives in areas such as education, rural development, and financial inclusion.

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Sanjay Agarwal: AU Bank achieved a tenfold growth, defying challenges from the COVID pandemic, interest rate fluctuations, and the NBFC crisis.

Sanjay Agarwal, MD and CEO of AU Small Finance Bank, reflected on the bank’s remarkable growth over the past nine years, during which its balance sheet has expanded tenfold. Despite navigating challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, high interest rates, and non-banking financial company (NBFC) crises, the bank has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Agarwal attributed this success to the bank’s initial focus on high net-worth clients and its strategic partnership with HDFC Bank, which helped shape its approach to risk management, distribution, and franchise building.

Investor Raamdeo Agrawal praised AU Bank for its professional management and prudent decision to avoid unsecured lending in its early years, which enabled the bank to manage risk and achieve steady growth. Sanjay Agarwal highlighted the crucial role of technology in the bank’s growth, citing AI-led communication and operational tools that have enabled the bank to reach deeper markets and serve customers more efficiently. This has allowed AU Bank to scale faster than traditional banking models.

Agarwal emphasized the importance of building a strong leadership team that can run the institution independently, ensuring continuity beyond individual promoters. He credited mentorship from Raamdeo Agrawal, who encouraged him to think bigger, strengthen governance, and prioritize patience in building a lasting institution. Looking ahead, Sanjay Agarwal expressed confidence that AU Bank can grow into a much larger institution over the next two decades, driven by disciplined capital management, strong teams, and technology. The bank’s focus will be on longevity rather than short-term expansion, with a commitment to sustainable growth and long-term success. Overall, AU Bank’s story serves as a testament to the power of strategic leadership, prudent risk management, and innovative technology in driving growth and success in the banking sector.

After a 5-year decline, state-run banks see a surge in employee numbers, while private banks experience a 0.9% workforce reduction

The Indian banking sector has seen a shift in employee counts, with public sector banks adding 13,179 employees to reach 9,70,437 in FY25, while private banks saw a 0.86% drop to 8,38,150 employees. State-run banks, which had earlier focused on consolidation and improving balance sheets, have now started to expand their headcount. The largest public sector bank, State Bank of India (SBI), added 3,930 employees to reach 2,36,226 in FY25. SBI plans to hire 18,000 more employees in FY26, including 13,500 clerical posts and 3,000 probationary officers.

The government’s consolidation efforts, which began in 2017 with the merger of five associate banks with SBI, have continued with the merger of 12 banks into four larger entities in 2020. There are talks of a third wave of mergers to reduce the total number of banks to four core anchors. Recently, SBI hired over 1,000 probationary officers and plans to continue hiring.

Among other public sector banks, Punjab National Bank added 397 employees to reach 1,02,746, while Central Bank of India saw a marginal uptick in employee count to 33,081. However, Bank of Baroda and Canara Bank saw a decline in employee count. In the private sector, ICICI Bank saw a significant decline of 7.13% in employee count to 1,30,957, while HDFC Bank added 994 employees to reach 2,14,521. Axis Bank added 121 employees to reach 1,04,453.

The overall headcount in the banking system rose to 18,08,587 from 17,87,566 in FY24. Foreign banks’ employee count stood at 28,041, while small finance banks had 1,77,797 employees, with AU Bank being the largest employer with 50,946. The payments banks had 6,958 employees. The banking sector’s employee count is expected to continue to evolve with the ongoing consolidation and technological advancements.

Top FD Options for Seniors: Earn Up to 8% Interest Annually with These High-Yielding Fixed Deposits – View Complete List on Goodreturns

Best Fixed Deposits for Senior Citizens: Earn Up to 8% Annual Return

As a senior citizen, it’s essential to invest in a secure and stable financial instrument that provides a regular income stream. Fixed Deposits (FDs) are an excellent option, offering a fixed return on investment with minimal risk. Here’s a list of the best FDs for senior citizens, providing up to 8% annual return.

Top Banks Offering High-Return FDs for Senior Citizens

Several banks in India offer attractive interest rates on FDs for senior citizens. Some of the top banks include:

  1. Yes Bank: Offers 7.50% interest rate for 3-4 year tenure and 7.25% for 2-3 year tenure.
  2. IndusInd Bank: Provides 7.40% interest rate for 3-4 year tenure and 7.20% for 2-3 year tenure.
  3. Kotak Mahindra Bank: Offers 7.30% interest rate for 3-4 year tenure and 7.10% for 2-3 year tenure.
  4. HDFC Bank: Provides 7.25% interest rate for 3-4 year tenure and 7.00% for 2-3 year tenure.
  5. ICICI Bank: Offers 7.20% interest rate for 3-4 year tenure and 6.95% for 2-3 year tenure.

Other Banks Offering Attractive FD Rates

In addition to the above-mentioned banks, other financial institutions also offer competitive interest rates on FDs for senior citizens. These include:

  1. Bajaj Finance: Offers 8.00% interest rate for 3-4 year tenure.
  2. Mahindra Finance: Provides 7.80% interest rate for 3-4 year tenure.
  3. SBI: Offers 7.10% interest rate for 3-4 year tenure.
  4. Axis Bank: Provides 7.05% interest rate for 3-4 year tenure.

Key Benefits of FDs for Senior Citizens

Fixed Deposits offer several benefits for senior citizens, including:

  1. Guaranteed Returns: FDs provide a fixed return on investment, ensuring a regular income stream.
  2. Low Risk: FDs are a low-risk investment option, making them ideal for senior citizens.
  3. Flexibility: FDs offer flexible tenure options, allowing senior citizens to choose the investment period that suits their needs.
  4. Tax Benefits: Interest earned on FDs is taxable, but senior citizens can claim a deduction of up to Rs. 50,000 under Section 80TTB.

In conclusion, senior citizens can earn up to 8% annual return on their investments by opting for the best FDs offered by various banks and financial institutions. It’s essential to compare the interest rates and tenure options before making an investment decision.

PSB Xchange announces key leadership appointments, naming Ankush Aggarwal as Chief Experience Officer (CXO) and Sahil Sikka as Chief Business Officer (CBO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

PSB Xchange, a digital marketplace for financial solutions, has announced the appointment of two new leaders to its team. Ankush Aggarwal has been appointed as Chief Experience Officer, bringing over 20 years of experience in corporate banking and SME segments. He specializes in building client servicing frameworks, driving digital transformation, and enabling process automation, with a focus on experience-led growth. Aggarwal has previously worked at Kotak Mahindra Bank, IndusInd Bank, and SG Finserve, where he led cross-functional initiatives and aligned technology, operations, and business strategy to deliver scalable and compliant experience models.

Alongside Aggarwal, Sahil Sikka has been appointed as Chief Business Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Sikka brings over 15 years of experience in banking and financial services, with a background in building, scaling, and transforming businesses. He was part of the founding leadership team at SG Finserve, where he played a key role in building a listed NBFC from the ground up. Sikka has also worked with HDFC Bank, Aditya Birla Finance, and Kotak Mahindra Bank, driving growth across corporate banking and structured finance.

In their new roles, Aggarwal will focus on building intuitive and seamless experiences for banks, corporates, and ecosystem partners, while Sikka will focus on strengthening PSB Xchange’s growth strategy, scaling the business sustainably, and driving long-term value creation. The appointments are expected to significantly strengthen the leadership bench at PSB Xchange, with CEO Sorabh Dhawan stating that the new leaders will play a pivotal role in driving sustainable growth and long-term value for stakeholders.

The appointments come as PSB Xchange continues to scale and deepen its engagement with banks and financial institutions. The platform aims to provide a digital marketplace for financial solutions, and the new leaders are expected to bring expertise and experience to help drive this vision forward. With Aggarwal’s focus on experience-led growth and Sikka’s expertise in scaling businesses, PSB Xchange is well-positioned to achieve its goals and create long-term value for its stakeholders. Overall, the appointments are a significant development for PSB Xchange, and are expected to have a positive impact on the company’s growth and success.

Among the prominent banks are SBI, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, Kotak Mahindra, and Bank of Baroda.

Several major Indian banks have announced changes to their fixed deposit (FD) interest rates, affecting customers who invest in these instruments. The changes vary by bank and tenure, but overall, they offer returns ranging from 5.9% to 6.95% for different terms.

State Bank of India (SBI), the country’s largest lender, has been offering 6.25% returns on FDs with a tenure of one year to less than two years, and 6.40% for two to less than three years. Senior citizens receive higher returns, with 6.75% on one-year to two-year FDs and 6.90% on two-year to less than three-year FDs. These changes took effect on December 15.

HDFC Bank, another major player, introduced new interest rates on December 17. The bank offers 6.25% for one-year tenures, 6.35% for 15 months to less than 18 months, and 6.45% for two years. Senior citizens are eligible for 6.75% on one-year tenures and 6.95% on two-year tenures.

Axis Bank also revised its FD interest rates, effective December 26. The bank now offers 6.25% for one-year tenures and 6.45% for two years. Senior citizens can earn 6.75% on one-year FDs and 6.95% on two-year FDs.

Canara Bank has also revised its interest rates, with a new rate of 5.9% for FDs with a maturity period of one year to 15 months. Senior citizens, however, can earn 6.40% for the same period.

These changes reflect the ongoing evolution of the Indian banking sector, with lenders adjusting their interest rates to stay competitive and respond to market conditions. Customers can take advantage of these revised rates to maximize their returns on fixed deposits, depending on their individual investment goals and preferences. It is essential for investors to review the updated interest rates and terms offered by each bank to make informed decisions about their investments.

Stock Market Updates of ESAF Bank

Recent Updates

Senior citizens can earn up to 8% interest rate for a 3-year investment; check the complete list of participating banks.

For senior citizens investing for a period of three years, several banks are offering a fixed deposit (FD) rate of up to 8%. This is a significant incentive for seniors who are looking to grow their savings while minimizing risk.

The banks offering these high FD rates for senior citizens include major players in the banking industry. Some of the top banks offering up to 8% FD rates for seniors investing for three years are:

1. Bank of Baroda: Offering 7.75% to 7.95% interest rates for senior citizens, depending on the deposit amount and tenure.
2. Canara Bank: Providing 7.75% to 7.9% interest rates for senior citizens, with varying rates based on deposit amount and tenure.
3. Indian Bank: Offering 7.75% interest rate for senior citizens, with higher rates applicable for larger deposits.
4. Punjab National Bank: Giving 7.75% to 7.9% interest rates for senior citizens, depending on the deposit amount and tenure.
5. State Bank of India (SBI): Offering 7.6% to 7.8% interest rates for senior citizens, with varying rates based on deposit amount and tenure.
6. ICICI Bank: Providing 7.75% to 7.9% interest rates for senior citizens, with higher rates applicable for larger deposits and longer tenures.
7. HDFC Bank: Offering 7.75% to 7.9% interest rates for senior citizens, with varying rates based on deposit amount and tenure.

These high FD rates can help senior citizens earn substantial interest on their deposits, ensuring a steady income stream during their retirement years. It’s essential to note that the interest rates may vary depending on the bank, deposit amount, and tenure chosen.

Before investing, senior citizens should carefully review the terms and conditions of the FD, including any penalties for early withdrawal and the minimum deposit requirements. They should also consider their individual financial goals, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs before making a decision.

It’s worth mentioning that senior citizens can also explore other investment options, such as senior citizen savings schemes, provident funds, and pension plans, which may offer higher returns and additional benefits. However, FDs remain a popular choice for seniors due to their low-risk nature and fixed returns.

In conclusion, the high FD rates offered by banks for senior citizens can be an attractive option for those looking to grow their savings over a three-year period. Seniors should carefully evaluate the various options available, considering their individual financial needs and goals, before making an informed investment decision.

Ganesh Sankaran takes the helm as Head of Wholesale Banking Group at IndusInd Bank

IndusInd Bank has appointed Ganesh Sankaran as the Head of its Wholesale Banking Group. Sankaran is a seasoned banking professional with over three decades of experience in various areas, including wholesale, retail credit, and SME. He will be responsible for developing the bank’s strategy and business in key areas such as corporate banking, institutional banking, gems and jewelry, SME and mid-market group, new age economy, real estate, corporate agri-business, supply chain finance, transaction banking, and project and structured finance.

Throughout his career, Sankaran has held senior leadership positions at leading private sector banks, where he has played a crucial role in building businesses, driving large-scale transformations, and delivering consistent performance. His expertise spans relationship management, credit and risk, product expertise, and board-level exposure. Prior to joining IndusInd Bank, Sankaran worked at Axis Bank, Federal Bank, and HDFC Bank, where he gained valuable experience and built a strong reputation in the industry.

In addition to his banking experience, Sankaran has also served on the boards of several companies, including Axis Capital, Equirus Capital, and Fedbank Financial Services. He also held the position of Executive Director and Board Member at Federal Bank. With his extensive experience and expertise, Sankaran is well-equipped to lead IndusInd Bank’s Wholesale Banking Group and drive growth and expansion in the bank’s business.

The appointment of Sankaran is expected to bring new insights and perspectives to IndusInd Bank’s Wholesale Banking Group, and his experience in building and transforming businesses will be invaluable in driving the bank’s strategy and growth. As the bank continues to expand its operations and services, Sankaran’s leadership and expertise will be crucial in navigating the complex and competitive banking landscape. With his strong track record and expertise, Sankaran is poised to make a significant impact at IndusInd Bank and contribute to the bank’s continued success and growth.

Fixed Deposit rates soar up to 8.05% for general public with 5-year investment term; Check out the complete list of banks

Fixed Deposit (FD) Rates Up to 8.05% for General Citizens Investing for Five Years

In a move to encourage savings and investments, several banks in the country have increased their fixed deposit (FD) interest rates. For general citizens investing for a period of five years, the interest rates can go up to 8.05%. This is a significant increase, making FDs an attractive option for those looking to grow their savings.

List of Banks Offering High FD Rates

Here is a list of banks offering high FD rates for a five-year investment period:

  1. DCB Bank: 8.05% interest rate for a five-year FD
  2. Yes Bank: 7.75% interest rate for a five-year FD
  3. IndusInd Bank: 7.75% interest rate for a five-year FD
  4. Kotak Mahindra Bank: 7.70% interest rate for a five-year FD
  5. Axis Bank: 7.60% interest rate for a five-year FD
  6. HDFC Bank: 7.55% interest rate for a five-year FD
  7. ICICI Bank: 7.50% interest rate for a five-year FD
  8. State Bank of India (SBI): 7.40% interest rate for a five-year FD
  9. Bank of Baroda: 7.35% interest rate for a five-year FD
  10. Punjab National Bank (PNB): 7.30% interest rate for a five-year FD

Benefits of Investing in FDs

Investing in FDs offers several benefits, including:

  • Guaranteed returns: FDs offer a fixed interest rate, ensuring that your investment grows at a guaranteed rate.
  • Low risk: FDs are a low-risk investment option, making them suitable for conservative investors.
  • Liquidity: FDs can be easily liquidated, allowing you to access your funds when needed.
  • Tax benefits: Interest earned on FDs is taxable, but you can claim a tax deduction on the interest income.

How to Invest in FDs

To invest in an FD, you can visit the website of the bank or visit a branch in person. You can also invest through mobile banking or online banking platforms. The minimum deposit amount and investment period may vary depending on the bank and the type of FD.

Overall, investing in FDs can be a great way to grow your savings and earn a fixed income. With interest rates up to 8.05% for a five-year investment period, now is a good time to consider investing in an FD.

Banks are placing early wagers, indicating a corporate credit resurgence may be imminent.

The Indian banking sector is witnessing a resurgence in corporate credit growth, driven primarily by working capital financing and project-linked funding. According to senior bankers, the uptick is modest, but it marks a turn for lenders such as HDFC Bank and Axis Bank, which had earlier slowed their wholesale book due to competitive loan pricing. HDFC Bank’s corporate and other wholesale loan book grew 6.4% year on year and 4.7% on quarter, while Axis Bank’s corporate loan book expanded 20% on year and 11% on quarter.

The pickup in corporate credit comes as yields on government securities have risen, making bank loans more attractive for corporates, especially low-rated ones. The weighted average lending rate on fresh rupee loans of scheduled commercial banks was at 8.75% in August, down from 8.81% a month earlier, making it cheaper for corporates to borrow. Bankers agree that while capex-led demand remains modest, working capital financing and project-linked funding are driving incremental growth.

Public sector banks, such as Punjab National Bank and Bank of India, have also joined the lending rebound, buoyed by a healthy project pipeline and improved corporate balance sheets. Punjab National Bank has total loan sanctions worth ₹1.78 trillion, which are awaiting phased disbursements, while Bank of India reported double-digit growth of nearly 12% on year in its corporate book in Q2.

However, pricing remains a challenge, with corporates seeking loans at unrealistically low rates. Indian Overseas Bank chief executive Ajay Kumar Srivastava said that the issue is not demand, but pricing, as corporates seek loans at around 6%, which is not viable for the bank given its own funding costs. Despite this, the bank has a ₹15,000 crore sanctioned pipeline and expects 12-13% on year growth in its corporate loan book this year, led by manufacturing and PLI-linked sectors.

Overall, the sector-wide uptick in corporate credit growth is expected to strengthen in the coming quarters as sanctioned loans move to disbursement stage and investment activity gradually picks up. Ratings agency Icra has not revised its credit growth estimates for FY26 yet, but expects the cuts in goods and services tax rates to support credit expansion for banks and NBFCs in the near term.

Ten major banks are set to unveil their Q2 financial reports this Saturday, October 18, offering a glimpse into their performance.

On October 18, 10 banks in India, including both private and public sector lenders, are set to announce their September quarter earnings. The list of banks includes HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, YES Bank, Punjab National Bank, IDFC First Bank, IndusInd Bank, IDBI Bank, The Federal Bank, RBL Bank, and J&K Bank. Other notable companies that will announce their Q2 earnings are UltraTech Cement, UTI AMC, SML Isuzu, and Can Fin Homes.

Analysts expect the Q2 earnings for India Inc. to rebound after a muted Q1, supported by a mix of cyclical and structural factors. The financial sector is expected to be a key driver of overall earnings growth. Banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) are benefiting from steady credit demand across retail, agriculture, and MSME segments, while asset quality has remained stable. Despite slight pressure on net interest margins, profitability is being supported by healthy loan growth, controlled slippages, and recoveries from past stressed accounts.

In terms of asset quality, analysts expect a comfortable outcome for large banks, with private banks appearing to be more comfortable lending aggressively in unsecured segments such as credit card and personal loans. Mid-size banks are expected to see improvement in microfinance asset quality, although credit costs will remain elevated. The focus will be on forward flows in early delinquency buckets and X bucket collection efficiency.

Regarding margins, most analysts believe that margins have bottomed out in Q2FY26, but the decline will be limited for mid-size banks. Public sector banks are expected to witness relatively lower QoQ margin decline, while large private banks are expected to see a sharper decline. The net interest margin (NIM) for Axis Bank, which has already announced its Q2 earnings, came in at 3.73% for the quarter. The bank reported a 26% decline in standalone net profit to ₹5,089.64 crore annually for the quarter ended September 2025.

Overall, the Q2 earnings announcements are expected to be closely watched by investors, with a focus on asset quality, margins, and profitability. The financial sector is expected to be a key driver of overall earnings growth, and the performance of the banks will be closely monitored.

HDFC Bank introduces India’s inaugural My Business QR, powered by Vyaparify, providing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across Bharat with their inaugural commerce identity.

HDFC Bank has launched “My Business QR”, a digital innovation powered by Vyaparify, aimed at empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across India. This solution provides a unified platform for payments, identity, communication, and commerce, all through a single smart QR code. When customers scan the QR, they can not only make payments but also discover the merchant, view their products or services, chat via WhatsApp, and save their contact directly in the phonebook.

My Business QR is more than just a payment QR; it’s a Vyapar QR that enables merchants to create their own digital storefront, get discovered on Google and WhatsApp, showcase products and services, and convert customer interactions into opportunities for repeat business. The platform is powered by Vyaparify’s AI-powered technology, which helps merchants build trust and visibility in their local and digital markets.

The launch of My Business QR is a significant step towards empowering India’s 63 million SMEs, which form the backbone of the economy but often lack a strong digital presence. HDFC Bank and Vyaparify’s partnership aims to change this by providing a digital identity, discoverability, and commerce-ready engagement to every shop, vendor, and service provider.

The My Business QR platform offers four key experiences for customers: seamless UPI payments, discovery of services and offers, instant connection via WhatsApp chatbot, and automatic saving of the merchant’s contact details. The platform also provides a permanent online identity for merchants, hosted at h-id.vyaparify.com/, which is SEO-ready, WhatsApp-enabled, and customer-friendly.

Vyaparify’s mission is to provide visibility, credibility, and digital reach to every business in India, and My Business QR is a significant step towards achieving this goal. The partnership between HDFC Bank and Vyaparify is expected to redefine the future of SME commerce in India, setting a new standard for “One QR – Poora Vyapar.” With My Business QR, SMEs can now establish a strong digital presence, drive discoverability, and build commerce-ready engagement, all without requiring any coding knowledge.

Borrowers to benefit as HDFC Bank slashes interest rates for specific loan periods, resulting in lower EMI payments

HDFC Bank has reduced its Marginal Cost of Funds-based Lending Rates (MCLR) by up to 15 basis points (bps) on select loan tenures, benefiting borrowers linked to this benchmark. The new MCLR rates range from 8.45% to 8.65%, depending on the loan tenure. This reduction will lead to lower interest rates for borrowers, making loans more affordable.

The revised MCLR rates are as follows: overnight MCLR at 8.45%, one-month MCLR at 8.40%, three-month MCLR at 8.45%, six-month MCLR at 8.55%, one-year MCLR at 8.55%, two-year MCLR at 8.60%, and three-year MCLR at 8.65%. The base rate of HDFC Bank remains at 8.90% effective from September 19, 2025.

It’s worth noting that the MCLR is the minimum interest rate a financial institution needs to charge for a specific loan, and it was introduced by the Reserve Bank of India in 2016. The benchmark PLR (BPLR) has also been revised to 17.40% p.a. effective from September 19, 2025.

In addition to the MCLR reduction, HDFC Bank offers competitive fixed deposit interest rates ranging from 2.75% to 6.60% for general citizens and 3.25% to 7.10% for senior citizens. The highest interest rates are offered on FD tenures of 18 months to less than 21 months. Home loan interest rates are linked to the Repo Rate and range between 7.90% and 13.20% for salaried and self-employed individuals.

The reduction in MCLR rates is expected to benefit borrowers, especially those with existing loans linked to the MCLR benchmark. However, it’s essential for borrowers to review their loan terms and conditions to understand the impact of the rate reduction on their loan repayments. Overall, the reduction in MCLR rates by HDFC Bank is a positive move for borrowers, making loans more affordable and competitive in the market.

HDFC Bank Sees 9% Surge in Loans, While Kotak, IDBI, and UCO Banks Deliver Positive Q2 Results in Latest Business Updates

The Indian banking sector has reported strong loan and deposit growth in the July-September 2025 quarter, with both private and public sector lenders showing healthy numbers. HDFC Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, IDBI Bank, and UCO Bank all posted double-digit increases in their loan books, reflecting continued momentum in credit demand.

HDFC Bank reported a 9% year-on-year growth in loans, which stood at Rs 27.9 lakh crore as of September 30, 2025. The bank’s total advances under management rose to Rs 28.6 lakh crore, up 8.9% from Rs 26.3 lakh crore a year earlier. Total deposits increased 15.1% to Rs 27.1 lakh crore, compared with Rs 23.5 lakh crore in the year-ago period.

Kotak Mahindra Bank posted a 15.8% rise in advances to Rs 4.62 lakh crore during Q2 FY26, compared with Rs 3.99 lakh crore in the same quarter of the previous fiscal. The bank’s total deposits grew 14.6% to Rs 5.28 lakh crore, up from Rs 4.61 lakh crore a year earlier.

IDBI Bank reported a 15% year-on-year growth in its credit book, with net advances rising to Rs 2.3 lakh crore as of September 30, 2025, compared with Rs 2 lakh crore last year. Total deposits stood at Rs 3.03 lakh crore, up 9% from Rs 2.77 lakh crore a year ago.

UCO Bank reported a 13.29% year-on-year rise in total business to ₹5.37 lakh crore in the September 2025 quarter. Total advances grew 16.67% to Rs 2.31 lakh crore, from Rs 1.98 lakh crore in the same period last year. Deposits increased 10.87% year-on-year to Rs 3.06 lakh crore, compared with Rs 2.76 lakh crore last year.

The latest updates from major lenders indicate that credit demand across retail, corporate, and MSME segments remains strong in FY26 so far. Their Q2 results, including revenue, net profit, and NPAs, will be released this month. The strong growth in both loans and deposits underscores continued traction across various segments, suggesting a positive outlook for the banking sector.

The growth in loans and deposits is a positive sign for the economy, as it indicates that businesses and individuals are taking on more credit, which can lead to increased economic activity. The banks’ ability to grow their loan books and deposits also suggests that they are able to effectively manage their risk and provide credit to those who need it.

Overall, the Q2 business updates from HDFC Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, IDBI Bank, and UCO Bank suggest that the banking sector is on a strong footing, with healthy growth in loans and deposits. This is a positive sign for the economy and suggests that the sector will continue to play a crucial role in supporting economic growth.

The performance of these banks is likely to have a positive impact on the overall economy, as they are major players in the financial sector. The growth in loans and deposits is expected to continue, driven by strong credit demand across various segments. The banks’ focus on managing risk and providing credit to those who need it is also expected to continue, which will help to support economic growth.

In conclusion, the Q2 business updates from major lenders suggest that the banking sector is on a strong footing, with healthy growth in loans and deposits. This is a positive sign for the economy and suggests that the sector will continue to play a crucial role in supporting economic growth. The strong growth in loans and deposits is expected to continue, driven by strong credit demand across various segments.

Bank organizes camp to boost awareness and accessibility of central government’s financial inclusion initiatives

HDFC Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks, organized a Financial Inclusion Saturation Campaign, which saw the participation of over 300 customers. The event aimed to increase the reach of various flagship government schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), and Atal Pension Yojana (APY). This initiative is part of a three-month nationwide Financial Inclusion Campaign launched by the Department of Financial Services, which began on July 1 and will continue until September 30.

The campaign was attended by several senior officials, including Vivek Srivastava, Regional Director of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in Chandigarh, Pankaj Setiya, General Manager of the RBI, and Lalit Batra, Executive Vice-President of HDFC Bank. The event provided an opportunity for customers to enroll in the government schemes and also included awareness sessions on important topics such as ReKYC (Periodic updating of Know Your Customer) services and digital fraud prevention.

The awareness sessions focused on educating participants about safe digital banking practices to protect themselves from cyber frauds. By conducting these sessions, HDFC Bank aimed to empower customers with the knowledge necessary to navigate the digital banking landscape securely. The campaign is a significant step towards promoting financial inclusion and digital literacy among the population, aligning with the government’s initiatives to increase access to banking services and promote a more financially inclusive society.

The participation of senior officials from the RBI and HDFC Bank underscored the importance of collaboration between government agencies, regulatory bodies, and private sector banks in promoting financial inclusion. The event highlighted the commitment of HDFC Bank and the RBI to supporting the government’s initiatives and working together to achieve the goal of a more financially inclusive India. By organizing such campaigns, HDFC Bank is playing a crucial role in promoting financial literacy, digital banking, and access to government schemes, ultimately contributing to the country’s economic growth and development.

Jefferies reaffirms its ‘Buy’ rating for HDFC Bank Limited (HDB).

Jefferies has reaffirmed its “buy” rating on HDFC Bank Limited (HDB), indicating a positive outlook for the company. This reiteration suggests that Jefferies believes HDFC Bank has strong potential for growth and is a viable investment opportunity.

HDFC Bank is one of the largest private sector banks in India, offering a wide range of financial services including personal and commercial banking, treasury, and wholesale banking. The bank has a strong track record of performance, with consistently high profitability and a robust balance sheet.

Jefferies’ decision to reiterate its “buy” rating on HDFC Bank is likely based on several factors, including the bank’s strong financial performance, its dominant position in the Indian banking sector, and its potential for future growth. The bank’s net profit has been consistently increasing over the years, driven by a combination of factors such as strong loan growth, high net interest margins, and low credit costs.

In addition to its financial performance, HDFC Bank has also been investing heavily in digital transformation, with a focus on enhancing customer experience and improving operational efficiency. The bank has launched several digital initiatives, including mobile banking, online banking, and digital payment platforms, which are expected to drive growth and increase customer engagement.

The Indian banking sector is also expected to see significant growth in the coming years, driven by factors such as increasing financial inclusion, rising demand for credit, and government initiatives to promote digital payments. As one of the largest and most well-established banks in the sector, HDFC Bank is well-positioned to benefit from these trends and drive future growth.

Overall, Jefferies’ reiteration of its “buy” rating on HDFC Bank suggests that the company has strong potential for growth and is a viable investment opportunity. With its strong financial performance, dominant position in the Indian banking sector, and potential for future growth, HDFC Bank is an attractive option for investors looking to tap into the growing Indian banking sector. However, it’s always important to do your own research and consider multiple perspectives before making any investment decisions.

Bank of Baroda slashes lending rates: 5 major banks, including BoB, cut EMIs in September 2025, making loans more affordable – The Economic Times

As of September 2025, several major banks in India have reduced their lending rates, paving the way for lower Equated Monthly Installments (EMIs) for borrowers. According to a report by The Economic Times, at least five banks have cut their lending rates, providing relief to home loan and personal loan customers.

One of the banks that has reduced its lending rates is the Bank of Baroda. The Bank of Baroda has lowered its Marginal Cost of Funds Based Lending Rate (MCLR) across various tenors, which will lead to a decrease in the interest rates on loans such as home loans, auto loans, and personal loans.

Other banks that have reduced their lending rates include the State Bank of India (SBI), ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, and Axis Bank. The reduction in lending rates is expected to make borrowing more affordable for customers and provide a boost to the economy.

The cut in lending rates is also expected to increase credit demand, as lower interest rates will make loans more attractive to borrowers. This, in turn, can lead to an increase in consumer spending and investment, which can have a positive impact on the overall economy.

The reduction in lending rates by these banks is seen as a-move to pass on the benefits of the lower policy rates to the customers. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had earlier reduced the policy rates to stimulate economic growth.

The lowering of lending rates by these banks is a welcome move for borrowers, as it will lead to lower EMIs and reduced interest burden. However, it is essential for borrowers to review their loan agreements and terms to understand the impact of the reduced lending rates on their loans.

In conclusion, the reduction in lending rates by major banks in India, including the Bank of Baroda, is a positive development for borrowers. With lower lending rates, borrowers can expect lower EMIs and reduced interest burden, making borrowing more affordable. As the economy continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these changes impact the banking and financial sectors.

The combined market capitalization of seven out of the top 10 most valuable companies surged by ₹1.18 lakh crore, with SBI and Airtel emerging as the largest gainers.

The combined market valuation of seven of the top-10 most valued firms in India increased by ₹1,18,328.29 crore last week. This surge was driven by an optimistic trend in equities, with the BSE benchmark rising 721.53 points or 0.88%. The biggest gainers were State Bank of India and Bharti Airtel, with their market valuations increasing by ₹35,953.25 crore and ₹33,214.77 crore, respectively.

The market capitalization of other top firms also saw significant gains. Reliance Industries’ valuation increased by ₹17,389.23 crore to ₹19,04,898.51 crore, while Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) saw a surge of ₹12,952.75 crore to ₹11,46,879.47 crore. Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) and Infosys also witnessed increases in their valuations, with LIC’s valuation rising by ₹12,460.25 crore to ₹5,65,612.92 crore and Infosys’ valuation climbing by ₹6,127.73 crore to ₹6,39,901.03 crore.

HDFC Bank’s market capitalization also went up by ₹230.31 crore to ₹14,84,816.26 crore. On the other hand, ICICI Bank, Bajaj Finance, and Hindustan Unilever were the laggards, with their market valuations declining by ₹10,707.87 crore, ₹6,346.93 crore, and ₹5,039.87 crore, respectively.

The ranking of the top-10 most valued firms remained largely unchanged, with Reliance Industries retaining its top spot, followed by HDFC Bank, TCS, Bharti Airtel, ICICI Bank, State Bank of India, Infosys, Bajaj Finance, Hindustan Unilever, and LIC. The gains in market valuation were driven by positive investor sentiment and an overall uptrend in the equity market. The increases in market capitalization reflect the growing confidence of investors in these companies and the Indian economy as a whole.