
Mr. Vinod Francis, SGM & Chief Financial Officer, South Indian Bank
“The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% while retaining a neutral stance reflects a calibrated and data-led approach amid heightened global uncertainty. While domestic growth remains resilient, the policy appropriately factors in rising upside risks to inflation, particularly from elevated commodity prices and geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The status quo provides much-needed stability to the financial system. A steady rate environment, supported by adequate liquidity, should continue to support credit growth across retail and MSME segments, while also strengthening asset-liability management for lenders. Overall, the policy strikes a prudent balance between growth support and inflation vigilance, reinforcing confidence in India’s macroeconomic resilience amid persistent external headwinds”