Joel Rebello

Foreign funds are pouring into India's government bond market at a record pace this month, driven by tax exemptions on interest and capital gains, a wider investment basket, and relaxed limits. These measures, coupled with a stable rupee and calmer geopolitics, have spurred significant inflows, with continued momentum dependent on global factors and potential inclusion in major bond indices.

Major Indian banks, including SBI, Axis Bank, and Bank of Baroda, alongside Power Finance Corporation, are set to raise over $2 billion from overseas markets next week. This move capitalizes on the Reserve Bank of India's 1.5% fixed-rate swap incentive for external commercial borrowings, aimed at bolstering the rupee. HDFC Bank's recent successful dollar bond sale has spurred this wave of fundraising.

Indian banks are seeking clarity from the RBI on allowing overseas branches to lend to non-residents for FCNR(B) deposits. Some lenders, like SBI, have already launched structured products enabling this, with deposits as collateral. Bankers hope for explicit regulatory comfort to boost NRI deposits before a special RBI window closes in September, potentially offering significant leveraged yields.

Several lenders have sought clarity from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on whether they can raise FCNR (B) deposits by extending loans to non-residents through their overseas branches, people familiar with the matter told ET.

Power Finance Corp successfully raised $300 million in international bonds, marking India's second such issuance since the RBI's special swap arrangement. The five-year bond was priced at 105 basis points above US treasuries, attracting a substantial order book. This move capitalizes on the RBI's 1.5% fixed-rate swap for external borrowings, with other major Indian banks also planning similar issuances.

Indian banks can now lend against FCNR(B) deposits, with the RBI offering forex swaps only on the principal amount. This move aims to attract dollars by absorbing currency hedging costs for banks, boosting FCNR(B) rates to 6-7.1%. The central bank also clarified rules for stand-by letters of credit and introduced a swap facility for external commercial borrowings, easing dollar hedging for businesses.

Axis Bank successfully raised $800 million through a dual tranche dollar bond, tapping into the Reserve Bank of India's concessional swap facility. The bank secured $500 million via an Additional Tier 1 perpetual issue and $300 million from a five-year senior bond. Both issuances attracted significant investor interest, closing within initial price guidance and highlighting the bank's strong position in international markets.

The Reserve Bank of India is adopting a cautious "wait and watch" approach regarding global geopolitical shifts and monsoon progress. Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that while inflation hasn't broadly impacted consumer prices, uncertainties persist. He highlighted that de-escalation in West Asia is positive, but risks remain. The RBI is monitoring crude prices and monsoon impact on growth, confident in India's preparedness for challenges.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed allowing All India Financial Institutions (AIFIs) and housing finance companies (HFCs) to borrow in the term money market, while also increasing borrowing limits for standalone primary dealers to strengthen liquidity and market participation.

Adani Ports is poised to acquire Karanja Terminal & Logistics, with creditors endorsing its ₹625-crore recovery plan. The nation's top port operator has offered full repayment to financial creditors for their outstanding dues. This development follows Prudent ARC's acquisition of nearly all of Karanja's debt, signaling a significant shift in the company's future.