RBI Announces Measures to Inject ₹1.5 Lakh Crore into Banking System
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at infusing ₹1.5 lakh crore into the nation’s banking system to address the prevailing liquidity deficit. This move is anticipated to stabilize short-term interest rates and enhance the transmission of monetary policy.
The RBI’s strategy includes the purchase of government bonds worth ₹60,000 crore, scheduled in three tranches on January 30, February 13, and February 20, 2025. Additionally, a 56-day variable rate repo auction amounting to ₹50,000 crore is planned for February 7. The central bank will also conduct a USD/INR buy/sell swap auction of $5 billion with a six-month tenure on January 31.
These measures are designed to alleviate the liquidity shortfall that has recently escalated, leading to increased borrowing costs and tighter short-term interest rates. Analysts interpret the RBI’s actions as a potential precursor to a repo rate cut in the upcoming monetary policy review scheduled for February 7.
Market participants have responded positively to the RBI’s announcement. Indian stock markets opened with gains, with the Nifty 50 index rising by 131.30 points to 22,960.45, and the BSE Sensex increasing by 292.83 points to 75,659. Bond markets also reacted favorably, with yields on 10-year government bonds dropping by 5 basis points, reflecting expectations of improved liquidity conditions.
The RBI has assured that it will continue to monitor evolving liquidity and market conditions, taking appropriate measures to ensure orderly liquidity management. This proactive approach underscores the central bank’s commitment to maintaining financial stability and supporting economic growth.
