IDFC First Bank, headquartered in Mumbai, is a relatively young Indian private sector bank formed in 2018 through the merger of IDFC Bank and Capital First. Initially established as Infrastructure Development Finance Company (IDFC) in 1997, it transitioned to a full-fledged bank in 2015. The merger with Capital First, a consumer and business lending institution, significantly boosted its retail banking operations.

The bank operates across retail, wholesale, and treasury segments, focusing on building a robust retail franchise while continuing to serve corporate and infrastructure clients. A key strategy is leveraging digital banking and technology-driven solutions.

IDFC First Bank benefits from the combined strengths of IDFC’s infrastructure financing expertise and Capital First’s retail presence. This diversified portfolio presents opportunities for growth. However, the bank faces challenges common to the sector, including intense competition, managing non-performing assets, and navigating regulatory changes. Consistent profitability remains a key focus area.

Latest News on IDFC First Bank

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.

AU Small Finance Bank Revises Valuation Following Shifts in the Competitive Banking Market

AU Small Finance Bank has recently undergone a valuation adjustment, providing insight into its current financial standing within the banking sector. The bank’s valuation metrics include a price-to-earnings (PE) ratio of 26.40 and a price-to-book value of 3.38. The PE ratio indicates the market’s expectation of the bank’s future earnings, while the price-to-book value reflects the bank’s net asset value. The bank’s PEG ratio, which takes into account its growth prospects, is recorded at 0.98, suggesting a balanced growth perspective relative to its earnings.

In terms of profitability, AU Small Finance Bank has demonstrated a return on equity (ROE) of 12.82% and a return on assets (ROA) of 1.38%. These metrics indicate the bank’s ability to generate profits from its equity and assets. The net non-performing assets (NPA) to book value ratio, which stands at 5.70%, provides insight into the bank’s asset quality. A lower NPA ratio generally indicates better asset quality, while a higher ratio may suggest potential problems with loan defaults.

When compared to its peers, AU Small Finance Bank’s valuation metrics present a mixed picture. For instance, Yes Bank has a PE ratio of 27.04, which is slightly higher than AU Small Finance Bank’s ratio. On the other hand, IDFC First Bank has a significantly higher PE ratio of 45.45, indicating a more premium valuation. IndusInd Bank and Federal Bank also have different valuation dynamics, reflecting the competitive environment in the midcap banking sector.

Overall, the valuation adjustment highlights AU Small Finance Bank’s financial metrics and market position amidst its peers. The bank’s relative standing in the industry is showcased through its valuation metrics, profitability, and asset quality. While the bank’s valuation metrics are competitive, its profitability and asset quality metrics suggest a stable financial position. As the banking sector continues to evolve, AU Small Finance Bank’s ability to maintain its financial performance and navigate the competitive landscape will be crucial to its long-term success.

From festive Diwali deals to ambitious Aatmanirbhar aspirations, GST 2.0 is paving the way for a seismic global economic transformation – tune in to IDFC First Bank presents Network18 Reforms Reloaded to uncover the next chapter in India’s reform saga and discover the trajectory of the country’s future growth

The landscape of India’s economy is undergoing significant changes, with the introduction of GST 2.0 being a pivotal moment in the country’s reform story. This overhaul of the Goods and Services Tax is not just a domestic policy adjustment but has far-reaching implications that could potentially trigger a global economic shift. As the world watches, India is poised to take a giant leap forward, leveraging its economic reforms to catapult itself into a prominent position on the global stage.

One of the most immediate and visible impacts of GST 2.0 is the boost it gives to consumer spending, particularly around festivals like Diwali. The discounts and promotions that come with the season are not just a testament to the consumerist culture of the country but also an indicator of how policy changes can directly influence everyday life. Beyond the ephemeral nature of festive sales, however, lies a more profound aspiration – the dream of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, or a self-reliant India.

Aatmanirbhar Bharat is more than a slogan; it represents a comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing India’s dependence on foreign economies, promoting domestic industries, and creating a robust manufacturing sector that can compete globally. The GST 2.0 is a critical component of this vision, as it streamlines tax structures, reduces compliance burdens, and makes Indian businesses more competitive in the international market.

As India embarks on this ambitious journey, the need for informed discussion and strategic planning becomes paramount. It is against this backdrop that initiatives like IDFC First Bank presents Network18 Reforms Reloaded gain significance. This platform offers a space for thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to come together and explore the nuances of India’s economic reforms. By delving into the intricacies of GST 2.0 and its potential to drive growth, these discussions can provide valuable insights into where India’s growth is headed.

The global economic landscape is at a crossroads, with challenges such as recession fears, trade wars, and geopolitical tensions. In this context, India’s economic reforms, including GST 2.0, are not just about domestic development but also about positioning the country as a stable and attractive destination for foreign investment. As the world looks towards emerging markets for growth, India’s ability to leverage its reforms to achieve sustainable and inclusive development will be closely watched.

In conclusion, GST 2.0 and the broader vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat are key to understanding India’s current economic trajectory. With its potential to boost consumer spending, enhance business competitiveness, and contribute to global economic shifts, this story of reform is one that will unfold with considerable interest from both domestic and international observers. As we navigate the complexities of these changes, staying informed through platforms like Reforms Reloaded will be essential in grasping the future of India’s growth story.

Stock Market Updates of IDFC First Bank

Recent Updates

TV Naarayan dia nametra-pialana ho tompony mpihiboka ny IDFC First Bank

Andriamatoa TV Narayan, Lehiben’ny Marketing an’ny Banky Voalohany IDFC, nametra-pialana tamin’ny banky. Ny anton’ny fametraham-pialana dia noho ny fahafahana eo amin’ny indostrian’ny fiaramanidina. Narayan neken’ny fact that faly izy noho ny fahafaha-manao goavana ao amin’ny IDFC FIRST ary tafiditra ao anatin’ny fahombiazan’ny fananganana ity Banky ity.

Narayan nanomboka ny asany tamin’ny Kotak Securities ho mpitantana mpanampy amin’ny varotra / marika. Taorian’izay, nifindra tany amin’ny TimesOfMoney izy ho mpitantana ny vokatra amin’ny serivisy NRI. Niasa ho mpitantana ambony momba ny varotra vokatra ao amin’ny Motilal Oswal Securities ihany koa izy. Avy eo, niditra tao amin’ny TimesOfMoney ho mpitantana ambony amin’ny marketing dizitaly.

Narayan niditra tao amin’ny PayPal ho lehiben’ny varotra mpivarotra ary avy eo dia nikarakara ny hetsika ara-barotra ho lohany. Avy eo izy dia lasa lohan’ny fividianana mpivarotra ho an’ny tsena iraisam-pirenena. Ny 22 aogositra 2025 no andro niasany farany any IDFC FIRST.

Ny banky neken’ny fialan’Andriamatoa TV Narayan. Narayan naneho ny faly ny amin’ny asa nataony ao amin’ny IDFC FIRST ary ny fahafaha-manao goavana ao anatin’ny banky. Ny fialan’Andriamatoa TV Narayan dia manamarina ny fahafahana eo amin’ny indostrian’ny fiaramanidina.

AU Small Finance Bank receives preliminary approval from RBI for full-fledged banking licence, marking the first such approval in a decade

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted AU Small Finance Bank an in-principle approval for a universal bank licence, marking the first such approval in 10 years. This development is significant, as it paves the way for AU Small Finance Bank to expand its operations and offer a wider range of banking services to its customers.

AU Small Finance Bank, which started operations in 2017 as a small finance bank, has been looking to upgrade its licence to a universal bank licence. The bank has been working towards meeting the RBI’s requirements for a universal bank licence, which includes increasing its net worth, expanding its branch network, and improving its technology and risk management systems.

The in-principle approval from the RBI is subject to certain conditions, which AU Small Finance Bank will need to fulfill within a specified timeframe. The bank will need to meet the RBI’s requirements on capital adequacy, asset quality, and governance, among other things.

The granting of a universal bank licence to AU Small Finance Bank is a notable development, as it marks the first time in 10 years that the RBI has given such an approval. The last time the RBI granted a universal bank licence was in 2014, when it gave licences to IDFC Bank and Bandhan Bank.

The approval is also seen as a positive development for the banking sector, as it will allow AU Small Finance Bank to expand its operations and offer a wider range of banking services to its customers. The bank will be able to offer services such as credit cards, investment banking, and insurance, in addition to its existing services.

The upgrade to a universal bank licence will also enable AU Small Finance Bank to compete more effectively with other banks in the country. The bank has been growing rapidly, with its assets under management increasing significantly over the past few years. The granting of a universal bank licence is expected to further accelerate the bank’s growth and expansion plans.

Overall, the in-principle approval from the RBI is a significant development for AU Small Finance Bank, and is expected to have a positive impact on the banking sector. The bank will need to work towards meeting the RBI’s conditions and requirements, but the approval marks an important milestone in its journey towards becoming a universal bank.

Maturity of RBI’s $5 Billion Forex Swap Looms, Threatening to Disrupt Banking Liquidity

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is set to reverse a $5 billion dollar-rupee buy-sell swap on Monday, which could potentially drain ₹43,000 crore from the banking system. The operation is the second leg of a six-month swap, where the RBI initially purchased dollars in exchange for rupees to inject domestic liquidity. The swap was one of three operations totaling $25 billion, carried out between January and March to ease tight liquidity conditions.

The RBI has two options: to give the dollar delivery, which would simultaneously drain out rupee liquidity, or to roll over the swap. Currently, the banking system has a liquidity surplus of ₹2.86 lakh crore, and with the upcoming cut in the cash reserve ratio set to release additional liquidity, the RBI is expected to allow the $5 billion swap to mature. However, some traders and economists believe that the RBI may opt to partially roll over the swap to limit dollar outflows, especially after the rupee’s recent sharp decline against the US dollar.

The RBI has been gradually reducing its forward book size by allowing near-term swaps to mature, but the recent rupee depreciation may prompt the central bank to reconsider its strategy. According to Gaura Sen Gupta, chief economist at IDFC First Bank, allowing full maturity of the swap could exert pressure on the rupee, leading to further depreciation. As a result, the RBI may choose to partially roll over the swap to mitigate the impact on the currency.

The outcome of the swap reversal will have significant implications for the banking system and the Indian economy. If the RBI chooses to drain liquidity from the system, it could help to reduce inflationary pressures and stabilize the currency. On the other hand, if the RBI decides to roll over the swap, it could provide a boost to the economy by maintaining liquidity and supporting growth. The decision will be closely watched by market participants and economists, who will be looking for clues on the RBI’s monetary policy stance and its approach to managing the economy.

IDFC First Bank’s Financials Show Mixed Results as it Grapples with Valuation Revisions and Growing Lending Hurdles, Reports MarketsMojo

IDFC First Bank has reported a mixed performance in its recent financial results, amid challenges in lending and an adjustment in evaluation parameters. The bank’s net profit for the quarter increased by 38% year-on-year (YoY) to ₹293 crore, driven by a 13% YoY growth in net interest income (NII) to ₹2,461 crore. However, the bank’s operating profit declined by 10% YoY to ₹844 crore, due to a 24% YoY increase in operating expenses to ₹1,617 crore.

The bank’s asset quality has shown improvement, with the gross non-performing assets (GNPA) ratio declining to 1.49% from 1.55% in the previous quarter. The net non-performing assets (NNPA) ratio also improved, decreasing to 0.54% from 0.63% in the previous quarter. The bank’s provision coverage ratio (PCR) stood at 58.1%, indicating a decent buffer against potential losses.

Despite the improvement in asset quality, the bank’s lending growth has been sluggish. The bank’s advances grew by only 4% YoY to ₹1.23 lakh crore, with a decline in retail and rural loans. The bank’s deposit growth was also muted, increasing by 12% YoY to ₹1.55 lakh crore. The bank’s CASA (current account, savings account) ratio stood at 48.3%, indicating a high dependence on wholesale deposits.

The bank’s management has indicated that it is taking steps to improve lending growth, including increasing its focus on retail and rural loans. The bank is also working to improve its digital capabilities and expand its distribution network. However, the bank’s evaluation parameters have been adjusted, with a higher weightage given to factors such as asset quality, profitability, and risk management.

The mixed performance of IDFC First Bank reflects the challenges faced by the banking sector in India, including sluggish lending growth and increasing competition. The bank’s improvement in asset quality is a positive sign, but the decline in operating profit and sluggish lending growth are concerns. The bank’s management will need to work to improve its profitability and lending growth, while maintaining its asset quality and managing risks effectively.

Overall, IDFC First Bank’s performance is a reflection of the challenges faced by the banking sector in India, and the need for banks to adapt to changing market conditions and regulatory requirements. The bank’s ability to navigate these challenges and improve its performance will be crucial to its long-term success. With a strong focus on improving its digital capabilities, expanding its distribution network, and increasing its focus on retail and rural loans, IDFC First Bank is well-positioned to meet the challenges ahead and achieve its growth objectives.

Kotak Mahindra Announces Key Changes in its Senior Leadership Team

Kotak Mahindra Bank, a private sector lender, has announced changes in its senior management personnel. Mr. Paul Parambi, the current Group Chief Risk Officer (GCRO), will be retiring on June 30, 2025, and will cease to be a senior management personnel of the bank. However, he will continue to serve as Group President- Risk until his retirement.

To fill the vacancy, the bank’s Board of Directors has appointed Ms. Srishti Sethi as the new GCRO and a Senior Management Personnel (SMP) of the bank, effective from June 12, 2025, for a period of five years. Ms. Sethi brings over! 30 years of experience in enterprise and credit risk, banking and wealth management, corporate debt, collections, and operational excellence. She has held leadership roles at Hero Fincorp, IDFC First Bank, and GE Capital, and is known for her strategic perspective, deep domain expertise, and ability to lead transformation with precision and purpose.

Ms. Sethi is a graduate in Mathematical Statistics from Lady Shri Ram College and holds a PGDBM from IMS Ghaziabad. She is also a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and holds a CRISC certification. Her appointment is expected to bring new insights and expertise to the bank’s risk management function.

The change in leadership is a significant development for Kotak Mahindra Bank, and the appointment of Ms. Sethi is seen as a positive move to strengthen the bank’s risk management capabilities. The bank’s Board of Directors has expressed confidence in Ms. Sethi’s ability to lead the risk management function and contribute to the bank’s growth and success.

The announcement of Ms. Sethi’s appointment is part of the bank’s efforts to ensure a smooth transition and maintain continuity in its senior management team. The bank’s senior management personnel play a crucial role in shaping its strategy and direction, and the appointment of Ms. Sethi is expected to have a positive impact on the bank’s operations and performance. Overall, the change in leadership is a significant development for Kotak Mahindra Bank, and the appointment of Ms. Sethi is seen as a positive move to strengthen the bank’s risk management capabilities and drive its future growth and success.

Widespread disruption: India’s UPI transaction system crashes, leaving users unable to access multiple apps and services nationwide | Top News Stories

A major outage affected several UPI (Unified Payments Interface) apps on Saturday, preventing users from sending and receiving money. According to data from Downdetector, a website that tracks app outages, over 2,300 reports of UPI issues were submitted around 1 PM. Google Pay, Paytm, and various banks were among the apps affected. The outage caused significant inconvenience to users across India, marking the third major UPI outage in the past 30 days.

The most affected banks included State Bank of India (SBI), HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Bank of India, Indian Bank, ICICI Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Bank of Baroda, Federal Bank of India, IDBI Bank, Yes Bank, IndusInd Bank, and IDFC Bank. Many users reported issues with mobile banking, online banking, fund transfers, and bill payments.

While the outage was widespread, no single issue dominated the reports. Some users reported payment failures, while others experienced problems with transactions, mobile banking, and online banking. The exact cause of the outage is not clear, but it highlights the importance of reliable payment systems and the need for banks and fintech companies to prioritize user experience.

The recent outage serves as a reminder that technology can fail, and it is essential to have backup plans and redundancy measures in place to minimize the impact of outages. In the meantime, affected users are advised to monitor the situation and wait for further updates from their banks and fintech companies.

HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Yes Bank, and IDFC First Bank Earnings: Check 2025 Q4 Results Announcement Dates at Goodreturns

Fourth Quarter Results Update for Top Indian Banks

The fourth quarter of the year is a crucial period for banks as they announce their earnings results. Here’s an update on key Indian banks that are set to release their quarterly results:

HDFC Bank:

  • Fourth Quarter Results Date: Date not specified
  • Previous Year’s Result: HDFC Bank had reported a net profit of ₹9,168 crores in the fourth quarter of the previous year

ICICI Bank:

  • Fourth Quarter Results Date: Date not specified
  • Previous Year’s Result: ICICI Bank reported a net profit of ₹5,213 crores in the fourth quarter of the previous year

Yes Bank:

  • Fourth Quarter Results Date: Date not specified
  • Previous Year’s Result: Yes Bank reported a net loss of ₹1,026 crores in the fourth quarter of the previous year

IDFC First Bank:

  • Fourth Quarter Results Date: Date not specified
  • Previous Year’s Result: IDFC First Bank reported a net profit of ₹382 crores in the fourth quarter of the previous year

The announced date of their earnings is not yet available, but the above information indicates expected results.

IDFC FIRST Bank’s Pivotal Role in Facilitating India’s Sustainable ShiftLet me know if you’d like me to make any changes!

IDFC FIRST Bank has introduced a unique approach to lending that prioritizes environmental sustainability and social responsibility. The bank provides loans for projects that meet specific environmental certifications, such as certified green buildings, sustainable real estate developments, and public infrastructure projects. This approach not only supports environmentally friendly initiatives but also contributes to social development by improving the quality of life for individuals and communities.

One notable example of this focus on responsible lending is the bank’s inclusion of WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) financing in its lending portfolio. WASH projects involve the construction of toilets, water supply systems, and waste management facilities, which have a significant impact on public health and hygiene. By lending over Rs 1,000 crore towards these projects, IDFC FIRST Bank has directly benefited over 1.4 million individuals. These WASH projects not only address social and public health needs but also align with environmental sustainability goals by improving water quality and sanitation.

The bank’s approach to responsible lending is critical in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including climate change, poverty, and inequality. By providing loans for projects that prioritize environmental sustainability and social responsibility, IDFC FIRST Bank is supporting a more equitable and sustainable future. The bank’s WASH projects, in particular, are a great example of how lending can be used to drive positive change and improve the lives of individuals and communities.

Overall, IDFC FIRST Bank’s focus on environmental sustainability and social responsibility sets it apart from other lenders and demonstrates the bank’s commitment to making a positive impact on the world. By incorporating WASH financing and other responsible lending initiatives, the bank is creating a model for sustainable and socially responsible lending that can be replicated by other financial institutions.

Financial institutions show remarkable growth in fourth-quarter lending and deposits, according to latest banking and finance reports.

The four Indian banks, HDFC Bank, Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, and IDFC First Bank, have reported robust growth in advances and deposits for the fourth quarter of 2024-25. According to their provisional business updates, HDFC Bank’s deposits grew 14.1% year-on-year to ₹27.15 lakh crore, while its gross advances rose 5.4% YoY to ₹26.43 lakh crore. The bank’s CASA deposits, which are current and savings accounts, achieved a growth of around 3.9% over the year-ago period.

Bank of Baroda’s domestic deposits increased by 9.28% to Rs 12.42 lakh crore, while domestic advances gained 13.7% to Rs 10.21 lakh crore. The lender’s global business grew 11.44% in the quarter under review to Rs 27.03 lakh crore.

Bank of India reported a growth in domestic deposits to Rs 7 lakh crore, from Rs 6.8 lakh crore in the previous quarter. Global deposits also rose to Rs 8.2 lakh crore, compared with Rs 7.9 lakh crore in the previous quarter. The bank’s global business grew to Rs 14.8 lakh crore, from Rs 14.5 lakh crore in the December quarter. Its global gross advances increased to Rs 6.7 lakh crore, up from Rs 6.5 lakh crore in the previous quarter.

IDFC First Bank’s loans and advances witnessed a significant increase of 20.3% to Rs 2.41 lakh crore. Deposits also grew 25.2% to Rs 2.42 lakh crore. The strong growth in advances and deposits indicates a positive trajectory for these banks in the coming years.

SBI, Axis Bank, and IDFC Bank unveil revised benefits for their most popular credit cards, effective from April 1, 2025, as part of new sector-wide regulations

As of April 1, 2025, new credit card rules will come into effect in India, affecting account holders at major banks such as State Bank of India (SBI), Axis Bank, and IDFC First Bank. These changes will impact credit card benefits, reward systems, and policies, and it is essential for cardholders to be aware of these changes to maximize their benefits and avoid penalties.

The SBI Card reward points program is undergoing significant changes, with SimplyCLICK SBI cardholders no longer earning 10X reward points on Swiggy transactions, but instead receiving 5X. However, other partner brands, such as Myntra, BookMyShow, and Apollo 24, will still offer 10X reward points.

The Air India SBI Platinum Credit Card and Air India SBI Signature Credit Card will also see changes, with the rewards points per Rs 100 spent on Air India ticket reservations decreasing from 15 and 30, respectively, to 5 and 10.

Axis Bank is updating its Vistara Credit Card, waiving annual charges for cardmembers who renew their cards on or after April 18, 2025. However, complimentary memberships in Maharaja Club tiers are being discontinued, eliminating certain high-value inclusions.

IDFC First Bank is eliminating milestone rewards for its Club Vistara Credit Card, and cardholders will no longer be able to earn Maharaja Points. The card will be phased out, and free Club Vistara Silver Membership and travel benefits, such as Premium Economy Ticket vouchers and class upgrade vouchers, will no longer be available. Cardholders who renew their cards after March 31, 2025, will have their annual fee waived for one year, but primary travel benefits will be deleted.

It is crucial for credit card users to familiarize themselves with these changes to ensure they continue to receive maximum benefits and avoid any unexpected penalties during the upcoming financial year.

Important update for account holders of SBI, IDFC, and Axis Bank: a significant change is coming into effect on April 1, 2023.

Starting in April 2025, several major banks in India may undergo changes to their credit card reward points, affecting cardholders. Reports suggest that SBI Bank, IDFC First Bank, and Axis Bank are likely to make changes, although these have not been officially confirmed. Specifically, SBI Bank’s reward points system may be revised, with potential reductions in points for certain purchases. For example, the Air India Platinum Credit Card’s 15 points per 100 rupees spent may be reduced to 5 points. Similarly, the Signature Credit Card’s 30-point earning rate may be lowered to 10 points.

IDFC First Bank’s Club Vistara Credit Card, which provides Maharaja Points, may be discontinued after March 31, 2025. Axis Bank’s Vistara credit card may also undergo changes, with no annual fee for card renewal starting April 18, 2025, and discontinuation of the Maharaja Club membership.

Using a credit card offers various advantages, including deductions of spent amounts from one’s account the following month, a spending limit specific to each card, and perks such as reward points and cashback offers. Credit card usage can also help boost one’s CIBIL score and provide quick payment options in emergencies. The changes announced, if confirmed, may impact cardholders’ earning potential and overall banking experience.

As of April, SBI, IDFC, and Axis Bank will be scaling back certain credit card benefits, a move that may impact cardholders’ rewards and privileges.

IDFC First Bank has made an announcement that is likely to affect its Credit Card holders. The bank will discontinue the milestone benefits associated with its Club Vistara Credit Card on March 31, 2025. This means that cardholders will no longer be able to earn certain rewards and benefits from that date onwards.

Although customers will still be able to earn Maharaja Points until March 31, 2026, the card will eventually be phased out. This change also has implications for the Club Vistara Silver Membership, which will no longer be available.

As a result of this change,cardholders will also lose access to certain complimentary vouchers, including Premium Economy Ticket and class upgrade vouchers. These benefits were previously available to cardholders, and their discontinuation is likely to disappoint many cardholders.

IDFC First Bank has not provided reasons for this change, but it is not uncommon for banks to discontinue certain benefits or products to simplify their offerings and focus on more popular or profitable ones. For cardholders, this change may mean that they need to explore alternative credit cards or rewards programs to get the benefits they are currently enjoying.

It is essential for cardholders to review their credit card agreements and understand the terms and conditions, including any potential changes to benefits and rewards. They should also consider alternative options that can provide similar benefits to stay on top of their financial rewards and benefits.

As the lucrative bank IPO market of the past decade saw IDFC First, Bandhan, RBL, Ujjivan, and Suryoday venture forth, the quest for the next HDFC Bank giant proves to be a reverse, with none managing to replicate its spectacular success.

The article highlights the struggles of banking stocks, particularly private banks that listed in the last decade. Despite being seen as having growth potential, many of these banks have underperformed the market, leading to significant losses for investors who tried to identify the “next HDFC Bank”. Out of 13 private bank IPOs in the last decade, only 2 have posted positive returns since their IPO, and none have beaten the index. Even larger banks, such as Federal Bank, have only managed to keep pace with the Nifty Bank index, with a CAGR of 10%.

The article suggests that “fortune favors scale”, implying that larger banks are more likely to perform well over the long-term. This is reflected in the Nifty Bank index, where the top 5 constituents (HDFC Bank, SBI, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, and Kotak Mahindra Bank) account for 86.5% of the combined market capitalization of all Nifty Bank constituents, up from 17.5% in 2015.

The article concludes that investors would be better off buying the index rather than trying to pick individual stocks in the banking sector. This is a decade-long lesson learned, with many investors having lost money trying to identify the next high-performing bank. As legendary investor John Bogle once said, “Don’t look for a needle in the haystack. Just buy the haystack.” This piece of advice may be particularly relevant for long-term investors who are not sure how to pick stocks in the banking sector.

Attention Vistara Credit Cardholders: Key partners SBI, Axis, and IDFC First to revise benefits starting April 2025 – Goodreturns

Vistara Credit Cardholders Alert: SBI, Axis, IDFC First To Modify Benefits From April 2025

Several prominent banks, including State Bank of India (SBI), Axis Bank, and IDFC First Bank, have informed their Vistara Credit Cardholders that certain benefits will be modified from April 2025. This move is likely to affect thousands of cardholders across the country.

As part of the modification, the respective banks will be introducing new features and reforms to their reward points, and other benefits associated with the Vistara Credit Card. Some of the changes include:

  1. Reward Points: The banks will merge the existing reward points with a new point-based system, which will be applicable on transactions made after April 2025. The new system is expected to provide more flexibility and options for redemption.
  2. Cardholders’ Tier-wise Benefits: The banks will no longer offer separate tier-wise benefits. Instead, they will offer a single-tier redemption system, which will apply to all cardholders.
  3. Fuel Surcharge Waiver: The current fuel surcharge waiver of 1% is set to expire, and cardholders will need to pay the full charge on transactions made at petrol pumps.
  4. Domestic and International Airport Lounge Access: The existing lounge access will be discontinued, and cardholders will only be able to access selected lounges with a fee.
  5. Return of Interest: The interest rates on interest-free periods for credit card transactions will be revised, and cardholders will be charged interest rates accordingly.

To ensure a smooth transition, the banks have requested cardholders to:

  • Continue using their existing Vistara Credit Card until the modification takes effect in April 2025.
  • Update their contact details with the respective banks to receive notifications regarding the changes.
  • Review and understand the new benefits and terms and conditions associated with their Vistara Credit Card.

It is crucial for Vistara Credit Cardholders to be aware of these changes and their impact to make informed decisions regarding their credit card usage. With these modifications, cardholders can adapt to the new system and maximize the benefits from their credit cards.

SBI Card is set to dramatically reduce reward points on select credit cards, starting soon.

SBI Card is making changes to its reward program, which will affect some of its credit cardholders. From March 31, 2025, to April 1, 2025, certain transactions will earn fewer reward points. Specifically, the SimplyCLICK SBI Card and Air India SBI Credit Cards will be impacted.

The SimplyCLICK SBI Card will earn 5X reward points on Swiggy, a 50% reduction from the current 10X reward points. However, the 10X reward benefit will remain for other partner brands. The Air India SBI Credit Cards will also see significant reductions in reward points on Air India ticket bookings. The Air India SBI Platinum Card will earn 5% reward points per ₹100 spent, down from 15%, while the Air India SBI Signature Card will earn 10% reward points per ₹100 spent, down from 30%.

These changes will result in fewer rewards for frequent flyers and online shoppers. Additionally, IDFC First Bank is making changes to its Club Vistara co-branded credit card, discontinueing milestone benefits from March 31, 2025. However, cardholders can still earn Maharaja Points until March 31, 2026. The card will be fully phased out by this time. Club Vistara Silver Membership will no longer be available, and complimentary vouchers including one Premium Economy Ticket and one one-class upgrade voucher will be discontinued. Cardholders renewing their cards after March 31, 2025, will have their annual fee waived for one year.

Overall, these changes are likely to affect cardholders who frequently use these services, particularly Air India and Swiggy. Cardholders are advised to review the changes and adjust their spending habits accordingly to maximize their reward earnings.