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Jana Small Finance Bank Seeks Universal Bank Licence from RBI

10 June 20251 min read
BANKING & FINANCEJana Small FinanceBank SeeksUniversal BankLicence from RBI10 June 2025safalsetu.com

Why in the news

Jana Small Finance Bank has formally asked RBI to let it become a universal bank, a major step in its growth plan. It received its SFB licence in 2017 and runs a retail and MSME-focused business.

About universal banking

A universal bank offers a wide range of retail, commercial and investment services. Under the on-tap policy (August 2016), eligible applicants may apply at any time.

Eligibility

ApplicantCondition
Individuals / professionalsIndian residents; 10+ years senior banking experience
Private entities / groupsResident-controlled; 10-year record; large industrial houses excluded but may hold up to 10%
NBFCsResident-controlled; 10-year record
Small finance banksNet worth of ₹1,000 crore or more; scheduled bank; 5-year record; Gross NPA at most 3% and Net NPA at most 1% for two years; listing

Exam angle

  • Conversion thresholds: ₹1,000 crore net worth, GNPA 3%, NNPA 1%.

Test yourself

1. What minimum net worth must a small finance bank have to apply for conversion to a universal bank under RBI's on-tap norms?

The notes list net worth of at least ₹1,000 crore.

2. In which year did RBI introduce its on-tap licensing policy for private sector universal banks?

On-tap licensing began in August 2016.

3. Which small finance bank applied to RBI in June 2025 to become a universal bank?

Jana SFB, licensed in 2017, made the application.