Gold loans surge five time in two years
Bank loans against jewellery rose nearly fivefold to ₹4.6 lakh crore at the end of March from ₹93,301 crore two years ago, registering a 123% year-on-year growth—the fastest across sectors, according to data from the Reserve Bank of India.
Banks create buffers to cover war-related credit risks
Indian banks are strengthening their finances. They are creating special funds to handle risks from the West Asia crisis. This proactive step aims to protect against potential credit issues. Banks like Axis Bank, Union Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank, and Indian Bank are setting aside significant amounts. This move ensures resilience and prudent risk […]
Small-cap stocks rebound in April with best month in a decade
India’s small-cap stocks experienced their strongest monthly rally in at least a decade during April, recovering significantly after a sharp March sell-off. Local investors actively bought beaten-down stocks, with the Nifty Smallcap 250 index jumping 17.1%. This surge followed a period where many small-cap stocks had declined, attracting interest in quality businesses with strong growth […]
Retail Dilemma: NBFC top guns diverge on deposit rates
Retail investors are seeing contrasting interest rate movements from two major finance companies. Bajaj Finance has boosted deposit rates by up to 45 basis points to accelerate fundraising, while Shriram Finance plans to reduce rates by 15-35 bps following a rating upgrade.
Sebi announces norms to fast-track launch of AIF schemes
The Securities and Exchange Board of India has launched a new fast-track system for alternative investment funds. This allows schemes to launch quicker after filing documents. Merchant bankers and AIF managers now hold greater responsibility. The regulator will not review draft disclosures beforehand. This change aims for efficient capital deployment by AIFs.