SMBC rules out raising stake in Yes Bank beyond 25%

Core Viewpoint - Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) has no immediate plans to increase its stake in Yes Bank beyond 24.99%, focusing instead on supporting Yes Bank's growth as its largest shareholder [1][4]. Investment Details - SMBC's current holding in Yes Bank is 24.2%, and the bank received approval from the Reserve Bank of India to acquire up to a 24.99% stake, following a deal to purchase a 20% stake for $1.6 billion [6][4]. - The acquisition is part of a broader strategy by Japanese financial institutions to seek new growth opportunities outside Japan, where interest rates have been low for years [1]. Strategic Focus - Rajeev Kannan, head of SMBC Group's India division, emphasized that the bank aims to contribute to Yes Bank's growth without taking on an executive role [3]. - Kannan highlighted the need for Yes Bank to improve its cost of funds, return on assets, and return on equity compared to its peers [4]. Market Reaction - Following the announcement, Yes Bank's shares dropped over 4% to ₹22.1, although they have increased by more than 20% since the deal was announced in May [7]. Broader Plans in India - SMBC has investments worth $7 billion in India and intends to keep its non-bank lending business, SMFG Credit, separate from its investment in Yes Bank [8]. - The group is exploring opportunities in wealth management and investment banking through Yes Bank and may consider asset management as a growth area in the future [11].