Current Affairs - Finance

The State Bank of India (SBI) and India Exim Bank are addressing the trade finance gap to support businesses in African countries. This initiative aims to enhance capacity, particularly for smaller businesses, and facilitate trade by funding local banks in Africa through syndications. The Trade Assistance Programme (TAP) also supports commercial banks in financing cross-border trade. By bridging the trade finance gap, SBI and India Exim Bank promote economic cooperation and growth between India and African nations. This strategic move strengthens bilateral trade relationships and fosters business development in the region.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has committed to providing a ₹2,800 crore loan to support the development of Bengaluru's suburban railway. The announcement was made by EIB Vice President Nicola Beer and Karnataka Rail Director Awadhesh Maheta at the Urban Mobility India conference in Gandhinagar. The loan will be disbursed over five years, contributing to India's urban mobility and workforce inclusivity goals. Notably, India is the largest EIB transport financing recipient outside Europe, reflecting the country's focus on upgrading its transportation infrastructure. This investment aims to enhance Bengaluru's connectivity, reduce congestion, and promote sustainable urban growth.

The Union Budget 2024-25 raised the Mudra loan limit under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh. This increase includes the introduction of a new "Tarun Plus" category, aimed at supporting entrepreneurs who have successfully repaid previous loans under the "Tarun" category. Loans up to this amount are also covered by the Credit Guarantee Fund for Micro Units, helping to boost credit access and financial support for small business owners and micro-entrepreneurs.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB), in collaboration with the World Bank, has committed to providing $1.6 billion for the development of Amaravati’s Phase-I. This funding will begin in January 2025 and will support various aspects of urban planning, governance, and infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh's capital city project. Out of the total project cost of Rs 15,000 crore, Rs 1,400 crore will be contributed by the Indian government, ensuring a significant push towards modernizing and developing the new capital of Andhra Pradesh.

Navi, co-founded by Sachin Bansal, has achieved significant growth and has become the fifth-largest player on UPI in India. In September 2024, Navi processed an impressive 120.4 million transactions valued at ₹6,549.1 crore, surpassing Amazon Pay's UPI volumes. The company is closing in on the fourth spot, trailing Cred by just 20 million transactions. Navi's rise underscores its increasing influence in India's digital payments landscape, competing with established players like Paytm, Google Pay, and PhonePe. Its growth trajectory indicates a promising future in the fintech sector.