Current Affairs - Banking

Canara Bank reported a significant 33.19% increase in its net profit for Q4 FY25, reaching ₹5,004 crore compared to ₹3,757.23 crore in the previous year. This growth was driven by higher interest income and strong operational performance, despite a slight dip in net interest margins. The bank also saw improvements in asset quality, with a reduction in gross and net non-performing assets (NPAs). Canara Bank’s global business, advances, and deposits showed double-digit growth, reflecting its solid position in the public sector banking space and its contribution to economic growth.

In May 2025, Union Bank of India, in collaboration with Canara Bank, introduced specialized deposit schemes aimed at addressing the decline in deposit growth rates. These innovative offerings provide not only attractive financial returns but also bundled lifestyle and health-related benefits. The initiative reflects a strategic move by public sector banks to enhance customer loyalty, attract high-value deposits, and differentiate themselves in a competitive financial environment. With personalized services, concessions based on account balances, and added perks like health insurance, Union Bank is positioning itself as a modern, customer-focused institution seeking to adapt to evolving banking demands.

The fourth phase of the Regional Rural Bank (RRB) consolidation under the One State-One RRB (OS-OR) policy has been implemented in 10 states and one Union Territory. This initiative is part of an ongoing effort by the Department of Financial Services to streamline rural banking and enhance efficiency by consolidating multiple RRBs into a single entity per state. The consolidation aims to improve the profitability, asset quality, and operational capacity of RRBs, contributing to broader rural economic development. The move also sets the stage for increased credit flow and stronger financial infrastructure in rural areas, despite concerns regarding staffing and integration challenges.

Kotak Mahindra Bank unveiled the Kotak Solitaire Credit Card in May 2025, aiming to capture the elite segment of Indian travellers. This exclusive, invite-only metal card offers premium benefits such as zero foreign transaction fees, unlimited airport lounge access, and airmile conversion options with major airlines and hotels. With its focus on high-value users and frequent flyers, the card is designed to elevate the travel experience while fostering brand loyalty. Kotak Bank’s strategic move reflects the broader trend in financial services towards curated, lifestyle-based offerings for affluent clientele in the evolving travel economy.

HSBC and American Express were the leading foreign banks in terms of net credit card additions in FY25, according to the latest data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). HSBC added 216,997 cards, while American Express added 107,086 cards. This growth indicates a strong rebound for these banks after previous declines, and it reflects a broader trend of increasing consumer demand for credit cards in India. The overall banking industry also saw the addition of over 8 million new credit cards, highlighting a rise in digital payment adoption and consumer credit appetite.