Current Affairs - Banking

DFCC Bank PLC of Sri Lanka made history by becoming the first foreign corporation to list a green bond on India’s NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) at GIFT City. This move marked a significant milestone in cross-border financial cooperation and sustainable development, aligning with India’s aspirations for GIFT City as a global financial hub. The LKR 2.5 billion green bond, primarily aimed at financing solar PV projects, demonstrates DFCC Bank's commitment to green financing and regional market integration. The listing also reinforces the bank’s multi-exchange strategy, having previously listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange.

Scapia, a travel-focused fintech company based in Bengaluru, teamed up with Federal Bank to launch the Scapia Federal RuPay Credit Card. This innovative card combines the domestic UPI-enabled RuPay network with the globally accepted Visa network, offering users a seamless credit experience. Targeted at mobile-first travellers, it includes benefits like zero forex markup, integrated UPI-credit functionality, a unified credit statement, and generous reward programs in the form of Scapia Coins. The card also offers airport perks such as complimentary lounge access, making it a unique solution for modern financial and travel needs across India and internationally.

The Reserve Bank of India has reduced the qualifying asset threshold for NBFC-MFIs from 75% to 60%. This change allows NBFC-MFIs to diversify their loan portfolio, freeing up 15% of asset space. The move is expected to provide operational flexibility, balance sheet stability, and better cross-cycle earnings, ultimately enhancing service delivery to poor households and enabling MFIs to customize financial products for low-income and underserved segments.

The Reserve Bank of India has increased the Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio for gold loans up to ₹2.5 lakh from 75% to 85%, effective April 1, 2026. This change is part of a broader strategy to enhance credit access for small-ticket borrowers while maintaining robust risk management practices. The decision comes amid a surge in gold loan demand and rising non-performing assets (NPAs) in this segment. By allowing a higher LTV, borrowers can access more funds against the same amount of gold, offering critical financial relief, especially to those in the lower income brackets. However, stricter lender protocols will be enforced to ensure systemic stability.

Canara Bank has become the first major public sector bank in India to eliminate the minimum balance requirement across all types of savings bank accounts, including regular, salary, and NRI accounts. This reform means customers will no longer face penalties for failing to maintain an Average Monthly Balance (AMB), a practice that previously discouraged low-income and rural populations from accessing formal banking services. The move is aimed at boosting financial inclusion and simplifying banking access for a broader demographic, including students, salaried workers, and rural communities. It reflects Canara Bank's commitment to customer convenience and inclusive financial practices.