Context:
On March 10, 2025, IndusInd Bank disclosed discrepancies in its derivative portfolio, which are expected to have over 2% impact on its net worth. The bank appointed PwC to conduct a review; the report is still awaited.
Board Action and Independent Investigation
- The bank’s board has decided to appoint an independent professional firm for:
- Root cause analysis of the discrepancies.
- Assessment of accounting treatment for derivative contracts with respect to prevailing accounting standards.
- Identification of lapses and establishment of accountability.
Regulatory Response
- Following market concerns, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a rare statement, assuring:
- IndusInd Bank is well-capitalised and financially stable.
- No reason for depositors to worry or react to speculative reports.
- Ongoing close monitoring of the bank’s financial health.
Key Financial Health Indicators
| Metric | Value | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) | 16.46% | The Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) is a financial metric that measures a bank’s ability to absorb losses and maintain stability by ensuring it has enough capital relative to its risk-weighted assets, also known as Capital to Risk (Weighted) Assets Ratio (CRAR). |
| Provision Coverage Ratio (PCR) | 70.20% (as of Dec 31, 2024) | The Provision Coverage Ratio (PCR) measures how well a bank is prepared to cover potential losses from bad loans or Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) by calculating the percentage of provisions made against the total value of gross NPAs. |
| Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) | 113% (vs. 100% requirement) | The Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) is a financial metric that requires banks to hold enough high-quality liquid assets (HQLA) to cover potential net cash outflows during a 30-day stress scenario, ensuring they can meet short-term obligations. |
Market Impact
- Since the March 10 disclosure, IndusInd Bank’s stock has fallen by over 24%.
- On March 21, 2025, shares closed at â‚ą 685.75 on the BSE.
Promoter and Liquidity Measures
- The promoter group has expressed readiness to infuse additional capital if required, though the bank currently does not need this, given adequate capitalisation.
- The bank has aggressively borrowed around â‚ą 15,000 crore in the certificate of deposits (CD) market at elevated rates, tapping state-owned banks and mutual funds for liquidity support.
Analytical Perspective
| Area | Opportunities | Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Investigation | Could restore investor confidence and enhance transparency | Findings may reveal deeper lapses, impacting management reputation |
| Regulatory Assurance | RBI’s involvement and public assurance stabilise sentiment | Persistent market speculation despite RBI’s statements |
| Capital Strength | Strong capital adequacy and liquidity buffers in place | Heavy reliance on short-term borrowing (CD market) could raise cost pressure |
| Market Reaction | Opportunity for long-term investors if confidence is restored | Short-term volatility and 24% share price erosion show fragile sentiment |
- The situation presents a test of governance, risk management, and crisis handling for IndusInd Bank.
- Transparency in the forthcoming independent report will be key to restoring stakeholder trust.
- Despite strong capital buffers and regulatory backing, the bank faces reputational challenges and funding cost pressures.
- Investors and market participants should watch for:
- The independent audit report findings.
- Any management reshuffles or accountability actions.
- The promoter’s moves on potential capital infusion.
- The bank’s medium-term funding strategy, given recent heavy CD market borrowing.
