Indian banks are asking the RBI for guidance on allowing overseas branches to lend to non-residents for FCNR(B) deposits. Some banks, like SBI, already offer structured products where deposits collateralize loans, aiming to boost NRI deposits before a special RBI window closes in September.
The Reserve Bank of India has temporarily removed interest rate restrictions on NRE and FCNR(B) deposits until September 30, 2026, to attract foreign currency inflows. This allows banks to offer higher rates on these deposits for Non-Resident Indians.
The Indian government is covering hedging costs for FCNR(B) deposits until Sept 2026, allowing banks to offer over 7% interest. This enables NRIs to use a rate arbitrage strategy, borrowing against deposits to reinvest and potentially earn significant returns, though risks like fluctuating borrowing costs and foreign taxes remain.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) deputy governor urged bank CEOs to increase efforts in mobilizing overseas funds through FCNR(B) deposits to boost dollar inflows and strengthen forex reserves. This push comes with new RBI incentives to support these deposits, aiming to stabilize the rupee which depreciated significantly last fiscal year.
