1. Indian Banking Sector Overview
India Banking Industry Report — IBEF
A must-read for all bankers. Covers macroeconomic trends, key performance data, and sector-wide developments.
Key highlights:
In February 2026, UPI transaction volumes reached 20.39 billion with a total transaction value of ₹26.84 lakh crore, while average daily transaction value rose to ₹95,865 crore, reflecting the growing scale of digital payments across India. IBEF
Bank deposits grew steadily to ₹25,715,528 crore by February 2026, reflecting continued improvement in savings mobilisation and sustained confidence in India’s banking system. IBEF
In February 2026, the RBI introduced measures to strengthen cooperative banks through higher housing loan limits, expanded branch openings, and improved deposit security
2. Daily Banking News — Business Standard
India’s most reliable source for banking updates.
Recent important stories:
Bank lending expanded at 16.2% in the year through May 15, the fastest clip in two years, with credit demand exceeding deposit growth for the eighth straight month. Business Standard
The RBI Deputy Governor said banks must prepare for emerging risks ranging from cyber threats and AI to geopolitical shocks and climate-related disruptions. Business Standard
RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra says banks must remain transparent on deposit rates and cannot offer differential rates beyond categories permitted by the regulator.
3. Top 5 Banking Trends for India — Capco Intelligence
Essential reading for forward-thinking bankers.
Key trends:
Open banking presents a unique collaborative growth opportunity for Indian banks and fintechs — by securely sharing customer financial data, banks can monetize their APIs to deliver personalized services and unlock new revenue streams.
Indian banks are increasingly focused on engaging clients at the early stages of affluence, building long-term relationships. India’s wealth market is poised for significant growth, with the country expected to have 16 lakh HNW individuals by 2027
Top Topics Every Indian Banker Should Follow in 2026
| Topic | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| CBDC (Digital Rupee) | RBI actively expanding CBDC pilots |
| UPI & Fintech | Fastest-growing payment ecosystem globally |
| NPA Management | Asset quality improving but wilful defaults remain high |
| Cybersecurity & AI | RBI flagging it as top emerging risk |
| Open Banking & APIs | New revenue and partnership opportunities |
| Wealth Management | HNI segment growing rapidly in India |
| Co-operative Banks Reform | New RBI norms in 2026 |
| MSME Lending | ₹46 trillion outstanding as of April 2026 |
Best Books for Indian Bankers
“Indian Banking: Paradigm Shift” – A.K. Khandelwal
“The RBI and the Indian Economy” – C. Rangarajan
“Banking Briefs” – N.S. Toor (popular for JAIIB/CAIIB prep)
“Principles & Practices of Banking” – IIBF Publication