Archive · 2 Aug 2026
RBI Allows Banks to Offer Bulk Deposit Rates Differently
The Reserve Bank of India said banks can now charge different interest rates on big deposits, but only if the rates are the same across all branches for the same amount.
Banks must show these rates on their websites every morning at 10 am.
This rule does not change the interest rates that regular customers get on fixed deposits.
It mainly makes it easier for people to see and compare rates.
The rule is part of a bigger plan to keep banks liquid and was made after banks gave feedback.
It will start on 1 October 2025.
The new rules were made because a big bank, HDFC, was accused of paying extra money for higher rates to a state company.
The RBI wants to stop such unfair practices.
The changes help customers know exactly what rates they can get and keep rates fair across all branches.
RBI permits banks to set different interest rates on bulk deposits based on liquidity risk.
Banks must publish bulk deposit rates on their websites each business day at 10:00 am.
Retail fixed deposit rates are not mandated to change; the focus is on transparency and uniformity.
The rule takes effect on 1 October 2025 under the Liquidity Coverage Ratio framework.
The change follows a draft proposal, stakeholder comments, and a HDFC Bank incident.
- Who
- Reserve Bank of India
- What
- New rules allowing differential interest rates on bulk deposits
- When
- Effective 1 October 2025
- Where
- India
- Why
- To improve transparency, align with LCR, and address concerns after a HDFC Bank incident
- Effective Date
- 1 October 2025
- Scope
- Bulk deposits in domestic rupee and non‑resident rupee
- Disclosure Timing
- Rates posted on bank websites at 10:00 am, latest by 10:10 am
- Impact on Retail FD Rates
- No mandatory change; transparency and uniformity only
- Framework
- Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR)