Bandhan Bank’s Elite Plus Savings Account for HNIs Bank of Baroda’s bob Square Drive Deposit Scheme Strategic Implications BS

Context: Scheme Details and Filing Process Background and Response Implications for Taxpayers TET

Context: Key Highlights of the Proposed Framework Operational Model Regulatory Disclosure Requirements Expected Impact

Context: Indian Bank has reduced its Repo-Linked Benchmark Lending Rate (RBLR) from 9.05% to 8.70%, effective April 11. The 0.35% (35 basis points) rate cut aligns with recent RBI repo rate adjustments, according to the bank’s statement. Impact on Borrowers Context and Market Relevance Customer Advisory TH

Context: Chairperson and Committee Composition Key Focus Areas Broader Implications Mint

Context: The Asian Development Bank (ADB), in its Asia Development Outlook April 2025, has lowered India’s GDP growth forecast for FY26 to 6.7% from the earlier projection of 7%, citing rising global trade tensions, US tariffs, and geopolitical uncertainties. Key Forecasts: Fiscal Year GDP Growth (%) Inflation (%) FY2025–26 6.7 4.3 FY2026–27 6.8 4.0 Major Drivers of the Revision Global Trade Risks Domestic Investment and Financial Market Concerns Food Inflation and Climate Impact Mitigating Factors Additional Insight from Moody’s: Regional Outlook BS

Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is currently re-evaluating its liquidity management framework, specifically the use of the Weighted Average Call Rate (WACR) as the key indicator for policy transmission. Governor Sanjay Malhotra indicated that alternatives such as a collateral-based benchmark may be considered. Key Highlights: RBI Reviewing Policy Transmission Anchor Call Market Volumes Declining Possible Shift to Secured Overnight Rupee Rate (SORR) Surplus Liquidity Calibration Target Recent Liquidity Trends Implications for the Market The RBI’s review of its liquidity management framework and potential shift from WACR to a secured rate benchmark reflects an evolving money market structure. A formal announcement is expected after stakeholder consultations conclude. BS

Context: Following the Reserve Bank of India’s recent monetary policy announcement, government bond yields declined sharply, hitting their lowest levels since December 2021. Market participants interpreted the accommodative stance and RBI Governor’s remarks as strong signals for future rate cuts, boosting demand for bonds. Key Developments: Benchmark Bond Yield Movement RBI’s Policy Communication Market Reactions & Forecast Rupee Weakens Further Broader Implications The RBI’s dovish policy tone has created a clear market expectation for continued rate cuts in FY26. With benchmark bond yields falling to multi-year lows, and the rupee weakening, the central bank appears firmly focused on stimulating growth, even if it means tolerating modest currency depreciation. Market experts anticipate further softening of yields, positioning India firmly in a pro-growth, easy money regime. BS

Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released draft guidelines to regulate and harmonize gold loan practices across banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs). The proposed norms introduce a uniform 75% loan-to-value (LTV) cap, emphasize risk control measures, and aim to improve transparency in lending operations. Market Impact Following the announcement, gold loan NBFC stocks reacted negatively: Key Provisions in the Draft Guidelines: LTV Ratio Capped at 75% Prohibited Collateral Types Risk & Credit Policy Requirements Portfolio Ceiling for Gold-Backed Loans Borrower-Specific Limits The RBI’s proposed guidelines signal a move toward greater regulatory coherence and responsible lending in the gold loan segment. While NBFCs may face near-term headwinds, the long-term outcome could strengthen sectoral discipline and risk governance. BS

Context: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra emphasized that recent banking irregularities — including incidents at IndusInd Bank and New India Cooperative Bank should not be seen as systemic failures, but as isolated episodes within a broad and robust financial ecosystem. Highlights from the Post-Policy Press Conference Incidents Are Isolated, Not Failures Financial System Remains Resilient IndusInd Bank Derivative Discrepancy New India Cooperative Bank Governance Concerns Regulatory Tools in Place While isolated disruptions may occur, the overall financial system in India is fundamentally resilient, with proactive steps from the RBI to mitigate risks and safeguard consumer interests. BS