Equitas SFB hikes FCNR(B) deposits to 7.13% p.a. for USD
Equitas Small Finance Bank has revised its FCNR(B) deposit rates to 7.13% p.a. for US dollar deposits with a 3-5 year tenure, following the RBI's special swap facility. The bank also offers NRO and NRE Fixed Deposits at 7.75% p.a. for 888 days and Recurring Deposits at 7.10% p.a. for 12-15 months.

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Equitas Small Finance Bank has revised its Foreign Currency Non-Resident (FCNR(B)) deposit rates to 7.13% per annum for US dollar deposits with a tenure of 3 to 5 years. This rate hike follows the Reserve Bank of India's special FCNR(B) swap facility, aimed at encouraging higher NRI fund inflows into India. The bank stated that this move positions it to offer NRIs a competitive combination of return, stability, and flexibility.
Revised Deposit Parameters
The updated deposit offering is designed to help NRIs preserve overseas earnings while insulating them from currency volatility. The key features of the revised FCNR(B) deposit are outlined below:
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Deposit Type | FCNR (B) |
| Currency | US Dollars |
| Revised Interest Rate | 7.13% per annum |
| Tenure | 3-5 Years |
| Lock-in Period | 1 Year |
Strategic Alignment and Benefits
The rate revision aligns with the RBI's initiative to boost foreign currency inflows into the domestic banking system. FCNR(B) deposits allow non-resident Indians to maintain foreign currency deposits in India, shielding them from exchange rate risk while earning interest in the same currency. The deposits offer tax-free interest earnings in India and full repatriability of both principal and interest on maturity, subject to applicable regulations.
Murali Vaidyanathan, Country Head - Liabilities, Equitas Small Finance Bank Limited, highlighted that the RBI's recent regulation strengthens the appeal of FCNR(B) deposits by addressing hedging costs, making the bank's 7.13% rate a compelling option for NRIs.
Rupee-Denominated Options
In addition to FCNR(B) deposits, Equitas Small Finance Bank offers NRO and NRE Fixed and Recurring Deposits for NRIs preferring rupee-denominated investments. Fixed Deposits currently offer 7.75% per annum for 888 days, while Recurring Deposits provide 7.10% per annum for tenures ranging from 12 to 15 months.
Historical Stock Returns for Equitas Small Finance Bank
| 1 Day | 5 Days | 1 Month | 6 Months | 1 Year | 5 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| -2.48% | -4.46% | +13.03% | +21.78% | +12.43% | +28.01% |
How will Equitas Small Finance Bank's rate hike influence other small finance banks to adjust their FCNR(B) deposit rates?
What impact will the RBI's special FCNR(B) swap facility have on the overall foreign currency inflows into the Indian banking system?
How might the increased NRI fund inflows affect the liquidity and lending capacity of Equitas Small Finance Bank?

































