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Source: The Hindu BusinessLine

The Hindu BusinessLine
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Banking Sector
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1 min
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25 Aug
Published
Banking Sector
1 min read· The Hindu BusinessLine

Federal Bank responds to Jana SFB deal reports; no deal confirmed

Federal Bank has not confirmed a takeover or merger involving Jana Small Finance Bank. It told exchanges that reviewing growth options is routine and no material disclosure is currently required under SEBI rules.

The clarification follows reports linking the private lender to a possible transaction with Jana SFB. Federal Bank said it examines opportunities to expand its business, but its exchange response does not establish that a deal is happening.

Blackstone’s decision to invest roughly ₹6,196 crore for a 9.99% holding in Federal Bank has fuelled market speculation. Analysts see the proposed capital infusion as strengthening the lender’s ability to pursue acquisitions. That assessment, however, is not a confirmation of any Jana transaction.

Federal Bank has used acquisitions to widen its footprint before. Its purchase of Ganesh Bank of Kurundwad in 2006 supported expansion across Maharashtra and Karnataka. The lender is now targeting growth of 14–16% over the coming two years, with support from Blackstone’s investment.

S&P Global Ratings considers the bank adequately capitalised to support growth. Blackstone’s funding is expected in stages, with a portion arriving in 2026 and the balance by 2028. Separately, Federal Bank plans to acquire Standard Chartered’s Indian credit-card business, aiming for completion before 2026 ends.

Shares of both lenders declined amid the reports. Federal Bank fell almost 3% to ₹347.30, while Jana SFB dropped around 2% to ₹570.30. A formal announcement confirming a transaction between them has not been reported.

Source: The Hindu BusinessLine