Finance
Govt clears ₹18,100 crore ECLGS 5.0 to unlock ₹2.55 lakh crore credit for MSMEs, airlines
The Union Cabinet has approved Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme 5.0. This scheme will support businesses facing liquidity issues. It offers credit guarantee coverage for MSMEs and non-MSMEs. The airline sector also receives support. This initiative aims to maintain operations and protect jobs. It ensures continuity in domestic production amid global disruptions.
Adani, Arcelor among firms setting up treasury operations in GIFT City, sources say
Major firms like Adani, Bharti Airtel, Genpact, and ZF Friedrichshafen are setting up treasury operations in India's GIFT City. This tax-neutral finance zone offers cheaper funding and lower taxes on remitting dividends. Seventeen corporate treasuries are expected to begin operations in the next three months. This move aims to rival financial hubs like Singapore and Dubai, attracting global capital management.
Central Asia's VC ecosystem hits record $320 million in 2025 but faces a critical pipeline, capital gap: Report
Central Asia's venture capital funding hit a record USD 320 million in 2025. This growth was boosted by two major deals. However, the region faces a substantial capital gap and needs more startups to invest in. Cross-border integration is increasing. Systemic reforms are crucial for future growth and to avoid stagnation.
NFRA sets up 4 separate functional divisions
The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is stepping up its game with the launch of four specialized divisions that will focus on monitoring, oversight, investigation, and disciplinary actions. Prompted by a recent Delhi High Court judgment regarding its authority, this strategic reorganization emphasizes independence among its units.
West Asia conflict may trigger $800 bn capex boost for India, but oil and fertiliser risks remain: Morgan Stanley
The ongoing conflict in West Asia could emerge as both a challenge and an opportunity for India, with global brokerage Morgan Stanley projecting a sharp rise in domestic investments across energy, defence, fertilisers and data infrastructure, even as the country grapples with elevated risks from oil and fertiliser imports.
Audit watchdog to split disciplinary & probe functions, set up 4 divisions
The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is restructuring its operations by creating separate wings for investigation and disciplinary functions. This move aims to prevent perceived conflicts of interest and ensure procedural fairness, following a Delhi High Court directive. The new setup involves four distinct divisions for monitoring, investigation, determination of misconduct, and disciplinary action.
First-time borrowers climb to 4.4 crore despite tighter lending norms: Report
India's new borrowers have reached 4.4 crore, boosting credit growth and financial inclusion. Lenders are more selective, yet this segment remains vital. Women's participation is increasing significantly. Consumer durable loans are the main entry point. Many new borrowers show strong repayment discipline. This trend highlights scalable growth opportunities in emerging areas and among younger people.
Social justice ministry spends Rs 2,042 crore on educational schemes in FY-26
The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has allocated over Rs 2,000 crore for educational initiatives benefiting OBC, EBC, and DNT students in the financial year 2025-26. This significant disbursement aims to enhance access to quality education and support academic progress for these communities.
Rajiv Bajaj to step down from Bajaj Finance board, opts out of re-election at 2026 AGM
Rajiv Bajaj is stepping down from the Bajaj Finance board. He will not seek re-election at the annual general meeting on July 30, 2026. This marks a significant leadership change after his long association. The board acknowledged his valuable service and contributions. Bajaj will cease to be a non-executive director post the AGM.
I Squared Cap to exit Polaris Smart Metering
I Squared Capital is looking to sell its stake in Polaris Smart Metering. The US-based fund has hired an investment bank to manage the sale. Polaris Smart Metering is valued at around $200 million. The company has secured contracts for smart meter installations in Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Polaris recently raised financing from British International Investment.
Must Watch
Lenders turn to AI for collections and customer acquisitions
Indian lenders are turning to artificial intelligence to manage loan collections and acquire new customers. This move comes as a severe heatwave is expected across India. Cash-based collections and on-ground visits for loan repayments are particularly vulnerable to disruptions. Lenders are also tightening rules for loans in climate-sensitive areas.
PhonePe crosses 50 million merchants, expands digital payments and financial services footprint across India
PhonePe has achieved a major milestone with 50 million registered merchants. This growth signifies a significant step in bringing financial services to more Indians. The platform now offers a wide range of solutions beyond just payments. This includes loans and business tools for small enterprises. PhonePe's focus on accessibility, especially in smaller towns, has been key to this success.
MobiKwik gets RBI nod for NBFC licence, to launch in-house lending arm
Fintech firm MobiKwik has secured a crucial Reserve Bank of India approval for a non-banking financial company license. This paves the way for MobiKwik to launch its own lending business through a wholly owned subsidiary. The company plans to offer new credit products for consumers and merchants.
RBI cancels Paytm bank license, to approach high court
The Reserve Bank of India has taken decisive action against Paytm Payments Bank by cancelling its banking licence. This means that the bank must cease all banking activities immediately. The RBI plans to approach the High Court to initiate the dissolution process due to ongoing non-compliance issues.
India funding mix changes again, bank lending back in favour with a bang
Banks have again become the primary source of funds for Indian businesses. In FY26, bank lending accounted for a significant portion of total resource mobilisation, reaching a three-year peak. This marks a clear shift in corporate financing patterns. While foreign capital and bond markets also saw activity, the scale of bank lending dominated.
Shapoorji Pallonji to close Rs 25,400 crore financing by mid-May
Shapoorji Pallonji Group is set to raise about Rs 25,400 crore by May 15. This funding will be used to refinance existing debt. The group is also seeking approval to temporarily adjust a loan-to-value covenant on its bonds. Developments regarding Tata Sons' stake and potential listing are being closely watched by investors.