Yes Bank stake sale to SMFG may pave way for more foreign banks' entry to India: Fitch Ratings
Yes Bank stake sale to Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG ) would set the stage for more foreign banks investing in mid-sized banks in India, according to a commentary by Fitch Ratings.
'Acquiring banks would benefit from access to a broader branch network, enabling franchise growth despite India's intensely competitive financial landscape, while the acquired banks could also benefit from the potential provision of funding and capital over the medium term,' Fitch said in its statement. The ratings agency also said that currently foreign banks hold 3% Indian customers' loans and 6% of assets.
While Fitch sees a possibility of an increase in such foreign investment in banks in the system, regulatory issues in the mid-sized banks may keep them cautious, Fitch added in its commentary but added that foreign investment may come with increased oversight and governance.
Reserve Bank of India regulations do not allow foreign banks to have more than 26% of voting rights and 15% of the ownership in India banks. 'The YES BANK transaction will be the first significant acquisition by a foreign bank and would give SMFG significant control over YES BANK as the largest shareholder with two board appointees. It could pave the way for future transactions, if the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) approval for the transaction sets a precedent,' the Fitch release read.
'This is the third acquisition after DBS take over of Lakshmi Vilas Bank, Fair fax's stake purchase of Syrian Catholic Bank and now the SMFG stake takeover from Yes Bank. Next on line could be IDBI,' according to Karan Gupta, Senior Analyst at India Ratings, adding that cap on 15% ownership may be reconsidered by the RBI as seen in few other cases. 'Setting up branches is difficult and taking over franchises is easier for foreign banks if they want to build a network in India,' he added.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
India.com
38 minutes ago
- India.com
Meet Kishin RK, Indian CEO who bought his first home at age 12, started business at 18, now is Singapore's youngest billionaire, his net worth is Rs…, business is…
At just 42 years old, Kishin RK has become Singapore's youngest billionaire in 2025. He is the CEO of RB Capital Group, a major real estate company. Though he is the only son of well-known Indian-origin property tycoon Raj Kumar Hiranandani, Kishin's success is not just about family wealth. His story is about taking bold steps and building his own path in the real estate world. A very early start in real estate Kishin's journey in property began when he was just 12 years old. With his father's help, he bought his first property. By the time he turned 18, he sold an apartment his parents had gifted him and used the money to start RB Capital in 2006. That was the moment he began his own business journey. Today, RB Capital owns some of the most valuable hotels, offices, and shopping centres in top Asian cities. Real estate was always his true passion Kishin once thought about working in finance or the food business, but real estate always drew him back. In an interview with Tatler Asia, he said that while other jobs sounded interesting, the idea of building something long-lasting in real estate was far more exciting. Family legacy to building his own real estate empire Though Kishin RK was born into a successful real estate family, he always aimed to build his own identity in the industry. His father's company Royal Holdings being a well-known name in Singapore and instead of simply continuing what his family had already done, Kishin wanted to do something different. When he founded RB Capital, his focus was not just on buying properties but it was about creating new. This fresh approach helped him stand out and gave RB Capital a unique place in the real estate world. Under Kishin's guidance, RB Capital has developed several impressive commercial and hotel properties, including popular places like the InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay and Holiday Inn Singapore Little India. Key turning point Kishin officially joined the family business in 2003, but a major shift happened in 2011, when his father and uncle split their real estate assets. After that, Kishin and his father teamed up and built a powerful partnership. Together, they now manage a portfolio worth nearly USD 10 billion, making them one of the strongest real estate duos in Singapore. In 2024, they took their ambitions beyond Singapore by launching a family office in Abu Dhabi, called the RB Family Office. This new base helped them grow their investments across the Middle East. Kishin RK's net worth According to Forbes 2025, Kishin RK has become Singapore's youngest billionaire, with an estimated individual net worth of USD 1.6 billion. He is the only son and heir of Raj Kumar Hiranandani, a respected Indian-origin real estate tycoon. Forbes also reports that together, Kishin and his father Raj Kumar now hold a combined net worth of around USD 3.15 billion, making them one of the most influential real estate families in the region.
NDTV
41 minutes ago
- NDTV
UAE Launches New Digital System To Simplify Work Permits For Foreign Workers
In a significant initiative set to benefit thousands of Indian job seekers, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has rolled out a new digital service aimed at making the recruitment process for foreign workers faster and more efficient. The initiative is part of the country's broader push towards digital transformation in public services. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced that employers can now apply for work permits directly through its official website or mobile application. This new system replaces manual procedures with an updated, streamlined platform designed to improve accessibility and reduce processing time. According to a report by Gulf News, the digital platform will allow companies to select a bundled service package that includes the job offer, employment contract, and initial work permit approval. Employers can also receive real-time updates based on the availability of employment quotas and preferred notification types. For applications submitted through business service centres, digital signature verification will be required. However, this step will not apply to users submitting applications through the smart app. One of the key enhancements in the system is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for document verification. Employers will need to provide key details such as salary, working hours, and job location, along with uploading relevant documents. In cases where applications are filed through business centres, applicants' identity details will be verified using ID card readers. Once all necessary information and documents are submitted, employers can review the application and proceed to the payment phase. The move is expected to make the process of hiring overseas talent - especially from countries like India - significantly smoother. Cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah already host a large Indian workforce, and the latest reforms could open the doors for many more.
Fashion Value Chain
43 minutes ago
- Fashion Value Chain
Reimagining Indian Jewellery: The Rise of Small Brands
Arya Prameh, Fashion Management Scholar, National Institute of Fashion Technology, Ministry of Textiles, Govt of India, Daman Campus Small jewellery brands are playing a transformative role in the Indian market by embracing innovation, storytelling, and personalization. Unlike traditional jewellery houses, these emerging labels focus on creating pieces that reflect individuality and self-expression, tapping into the growing demand for unique, versatile, and meaningful designs. The rise of digital platforms, social media, and online retail has allowed these brands to reach wider audiences, particularly younger consumers who seek jewellery that resonates with their personal style and values. This shift is further amplified by the increasing popularity of trending jewellery types such as arm jewellery statement arm cuffs and bangles that have gone viral on social media alongside bold gold pieces, colorful gemstones, layered necklaces, and geometric designs. These trends reflect a blend of contemporary aesthetics with traditional Indian craftsmanship, appealing to fashion-forward buyers who want jewellery that is both striking and wearable. Source: Technavio A prime example of this movement is Quirksmith, founded by sisters Divya and Pragya Batra. With Divya's background as a NIFT gold medalist in jewellery design and Pragya's expertise in business, Quirksmith was launched in 2016 from a modest beginning at a Bangalore flea market. The brand quickly gained recognition for its poetic, conversation-starting silver jewellery that encourages wearers to 'wear your emotions.' Quirksmith's commitment to empowerment is evident in its workforce, where over sixty percent are women, and in its support for more than fifty artisans across India. Their designs blend traditional Indian elements with contemporary aesthetics, incorporating popular trends like statement arm jewellery, layered rings, and bold geometric shapes. By focusing on authenticity, craftsmanship, and community, Quirksmith has built a loyal following and set a benchmark for how small brands can thrive in a competitive landscape. The success of brands like Quirksmith signals a broader shift in the Indian jewellery sector. New entrants are accelerating market growth by offering fresh perspectives, innovative designs, and competitive pricing, compelling established players to adapt and innovate. As consumers increasingly seek jewellery that tells a story and aligns with their values, small brands are not only capturing market share but also redefining what jewellery means in India. They are turning accessories into powerful symbols of identity, empowerment, and creativity, ensuring that the future of Indian jewellery is as dynamic and diverse as the country itself. The rise of trending pieces such as arm jewellery, bold gold, colorful gemstones, and layered styles highlights how these brands are blending tradition with modern trends to meet evolving consumer tastes.
