RBI approves Emirates NBD's acquisition of RBL Bank stake. The Reserve Bank of India has granted approval to Dubai-based Emirates National Bank of Dubai to acquire up to 74% of RBL Bank, marking a significant shift in India's banking landscape. The approval, valid for one year, allows ENBD to maintain at least 51% shareholding and classifies RBL Bank as a foreign bank operating in subsidiary mode. This follows ENBD's October 2025 interest in acquiring a majority stake for approximately 26,853 crore rupees. Under the arrangement, ENBD's voting rights will be capped at 26% per Banking Regulation Act provisions. RBL Bank will operate under foreign bank governance directions with certain exemptions, including relaxed independent director requirements.
