According to Jaideep Iyer, Head of Strategy at RBL Bank, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) should infuse more durable liquidity in the financial system to enable bankers and customers to benefit from its rate cuts. Despite the RBI’s recent rate cut, bulk deposit rates and short-term certificate of deposit (CD) rates have not decreased, and are instead marginally higher than before the rate cut. Iyer believes that the RBI’s decision to cut the repo rate is “a little peculiar” and that focusing on durable liquidity is crucial, as variable rate auctions are short-term.
Iyer notes that the RBI has taken steps to infuse liquidity into the system over the past one-and-a-half months, but more comfort is needed. He expects the RBI to announce another one lakh crore of Open Market Operations (OMOs) to provide durable liquidity, which he defines as consistent liquidity from the beginning of the net financial year.
Iyer emphasizes that a accommodative liquidity situation is necessary for bankers and customers to benefit from the rate cuts. He suggests that the RBI should prioritize durable liquidity, as variable rate auctions are short-term measures, and the current situation is “a little peculiar” with the RBI on a rate cut cycle. Overall, Iyer’s views highlight the importance of effective communication and implementation in achieving the intended benefits of rate cuts and maintaining a healthy financial system.