Abu Dhabi-based International Holding Company (IHC) and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) are reportedly among potential investors exploring a stake in Bandhan Financial Services Limited (BFSL), the promoter group of India’s Bandhan Bank.
According to The Economic Times, discussions remain at an early stage, with BFSL seeking strategic investors for a potential sale of 25% to 32% of its equity.
The proposed transaction could provide an exit opportunity for existing institutional investors, including Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund GIC and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
Together, GIC and IFC hold approximately 30.3% of BFSL, with their combined stake estimated to be worth between USD 500 million and USD 600 million.
BFSL, led by Bandhan Bank founder Chandra Shekhar Ghosh, is reportedly working with investment bank Jefferies to identify potential strategic investors.
Other institutions reportedly approached or considered in connection with the transaction include Qatar Investment Authority and global private equity firms Carlyle and EQT.
BFSL operates through subsidiaries including Bandhan Financial Holdings, which held a 37.5% stake in Bandhan Bank as of June 2026. The group also has interests in asset management, insurance and technology services.
The potential investment comes amid growing interest from UAE financial institutions in India’s banking and financial services sector.
Earlier in 2026, Emirates NBD completed its USD 2.75 billion investment in India’s RBL Bank, while IHC committed USD 1 billion toward acquiring a controlling stake in Indian financial services company Sammaan Capital.
Bandhan Bank serves approximately 31.8 million customers through a network of 1,988 branches, with a total loan portfolio of approximately INR 1.56 trillion as of June 2026.
The Economic Times reported that FAB declined to comment on individual transactions or market speculation, while IHC did not respond to requests for comment.
No binding agreement or completed investment has been announced, and there is no guarantee that the preliminary discussions will result in a transaction.
Source: The Economic Times
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, financial, or legal advice.
