Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Limited has announced the opening of five new branches across multiple states and reported strong financial performance, marking significant developments in its expansion strategy. The bank informed stock exchanges about these developments through regulatory filings under SEBI Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements Regulations, 2015.

Branch Expansion Details

The bank's expansion strategy encompasses four states, with a strong focus on Tamil Nadu and strategic entries into Karnataka and Gujarat markets. The new branches will strengthen the bank's presence in key commercial and residential areas.

Key Appointments

The bank has appointed Thiru S Balasubramanian, Deputy Vice President, as the data protection officer effective December 26, 2025. This appointment reflects the bank's commitment to data governance and regulatory compliance in the digital banking era.

Financial Performance Highlights

Tamilnad Mercantile Bank reported robust growth in its total business for the second quarter of the current financial year. The bank's operational metrics demonstrate strong momentum across key parameters.

Market Performance

The bank's shares closed at ₹504.15 on Friday, December 26, down 1.59% from the previous trading session, reflecting normal market fluctuations despite the positive operational developments.

Strategic Positioning

The selected locations reflect the bank's focus on both urban and semi-urban markets. The Coimbatore branches target the textile and industrial belt of Tamil Nadu, while the Davanagere branch positions the bank in Karnataka's agricultural and commercial center. The Ahmedabad location provides access to Gujarat's thriving business ecosystem, and the Kanyakumari branch serves the southern tip of Tamil Nadu.

The Velandipalayam branch is scheduled to commence operations on December 29, 2025, while the bank has not disclosed specific opening dates for the remaining four branches in the regulatory filing.

Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Limited has announced a key senior management appointment, naming Thiru. S. Balasubramanian as its new Data Protection Officer. The appointment, effective December 26, 2025, was communicated to stock exchanges under Regulation 30 of SEBI Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements Regulations, 2015.

Appointment Details

The bank has appointed Balasubramanian, who holds the position of Deputy Vice President, to serve as Data Protection Officer with immediate effect. The appointment was formally communicated to both the National Stock Exchange of India Limited and Bombay Stock Exchange Limited on December 26, 2025.

Professional Background and Experience

Balasubramanian brings extensive expertise to his new role, with over 26 years of comprehensive experience in Information Technology and Cyber Security. His professional journey encompasses various critical areas including Information/Cyber Security, Analysis, Design, Development, Testing, Quality Assurance, Implementation, IS/IT Governance, and IS Audit.

His career highlights include over 7 years of experience as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at DBS Bank, demonstrating his capability in managing large-scale cybersecurity operations. Additionally, he has over 4 years of experience as AGM-Information Security Services, further strengthening his credentials in the field.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

The newly appointed Data Protection Officer holds an impressive array of academic and professional certifications that align perfectly with his new responsibilities:

• MBA - Master of Business Administration
• MCA - Master of Computer Applications
• CAIIB - Certified Associate of Indian Institute of Bankers
• CISA - Certified Information Systems Auditor
• HDCA - Hardware and Data Communication Architecture
• CSTP - Certified Software Test Professional
• CPISI V4.0 - Certified Professional in Information Systems Integration
• CPSP - Certified Privacy and Security Professional

Areas of Expertise

Balasubramanian's expertise spans multiple critical domains essential for effective data protection and cybersecurity management. His specializations include Information/Cyber Security Operations, IT Risk Management, IS Audit, Information Security Governance, and Data Protection. He also brings valuable experience in Third Party Risk Assessment and Digital Surface Monitoring, which are increasingly important in today's digital banking environment.

Interestingly, his professional portfolio also includes over 2 years of experience in teaching Business Administration, demonstrating his ability to transfer knowledge and build organizational capabilities.

Regulatory Compliance

The appointment was made in compliance with SEBI Master Circular SEBI/HO/CFD/PoD2/CIR/P/0155 dated November 11, 2024, and the disclosure requirements under Schedule III of the SEBI Listing Regulations. The bank's Company Secretary and Compliance Officer, Swapnil Yelgaonkar, formally communicated the appointment to the stock exchanges, ensuring full regulatory compliance.