Starting February 1, 2026, banks in India will close three categories of long-unused accounts under new RBI rules. These include dormant zero-balance accounts, inactive Jan Dhan accounts, and unclaimed deposit accounts, all aimed at reducing fraud risks and streamlining the banking system.

Key Details of RBI’s Revised Directions

• Effective Date: February 1, 2026
• Scope: Applies to all banks across India
• Accounts Affected:
  • Zero-balance accounts with no activity for years
  • Inactive Jan Dhan accounts opened under financial inclusion schemes but unused
  • Unclaimed deposit accounts with balances untouched for 10+ years (funds transferred to RBI’s Depositor Education and Awareness Fund)

Why RBI Is Closing These Accounts

• Fraud Prevention: Dormant accounts are often exploited for money laundering or scams.
• System Efficiency: Clearing unused accounts reduces administrative burden and improves digital banking infrastructure.
• Customer Protection: Ensures unclaimed deposits are safeguarded under RBI’s DEA Fund.

What Account Holders Should Do

• Check Your Accounts: Log in to net banking or visit your branch to confirm activity.
• Reactivate Dormant Accounts: A simple transaction (deposit/withdrawal) can prevent closure.
• Update KYC: Ensure your account details are current to avoid being flagged as inactive.
• Claim Old Deposits: Approach your bank before funds are transferred to RBI’s DEA Fund.

Risks if You Ignore This

• Permanent Closure: Once closed, reopening may require a fresh application.
• Loss of Access: You may lose linked services (debit cards, auto-pay mandates, etc.).
• Funds Transfer: Unclaimed balances will move to RBI’s DEA Fund, requiring a formal claim process later.

Quick Comparison of Account Categories

Account Type	Criteria for Closure	Action Needed by Customer
Zero-balance accounts	No activity for years	Make a small deposit/transaction
Jan Dhan accounts	Unused since opening	Use account actively or close voluntarily
Unclaimed deposits	No operation for 10+ yrs	Claim funds before transfer to DEA Fund

Action Plan

• Step 1: Review all your accounts, especially older savings or Jan Dhan accounts.
• Step 2: Make at least one transaction before January 31, 2026 to keep them active.
• Step 3: If you suspect unclaimed deposits, contact your bank immediately to initiate the claim process.

UST, a leading AI and technology transformation solutions company, has acquired Texas-based fintech company Tailwind Business Ventures, strengthening its position in a dynamic sector while also expanding its presence in South America. Tailwind was founded in 2003 as Integritas Solutions Group, with offices in Austin, TX, USA, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In 2009, it had expanded operations to Sri Lanka, with a Portugal delivery center added in 2019. With over 220 employees globally, Tailwind boasts robust expertise in the banking and financial services domain that will bolster UST’s standing in this critical market.

As the digital banking solutions market continues to expand, demand for implementation and services is expected to grow. With this strategic acquisition, UST will be able to increase its share of digital banking solutions implementation and support services for banks and credit unions.

Tailwind currently provides a range of advanced technological services to numerous prominent financial institutions worldwide. Its core offerings include the implementation of AI-based digital banking solutions, the modernization of legacy systems, and the customization of products to meet specific client requirements. The company also delivers product and project management services, guiding clients through every stage of their technology journey to achieve best-in-class outcomes.

"I am excited to welcome the Tailwind team to UST. Tailwind's core banking expertise, combined with UST's strengths in modernization, AI, and enterprise transformation, gives us the scale and depth to solve banks’ toughest challenges. Together, we bring hyper-personalization, integrated systems architecture, and security by design that not only improves customer journeys but also rebuilds trust and confidence across the banking ecosystem. We are now better positioned to drive end-to-end banking transformation in emerging and high-growth markets—LATAM, APAC, and Africa—where mid-market and large regional banks are looking for partners who truly understand their needs. At the same time, we are deepening our presence in North America with a complete, modern platform and services story that helps banks compete and innovate faster,” said Manu Gopinath, President, UST.

“Acquisition of Tailwind marks a strategically significant investment for UST as we strengthen our banking and financial services platforms and solutions. Tailwind’s deep expertise in core banking, delivered through advanced digital banking solutions, enables financial institutions to provide exceptional customer experiences. Tailwind’s partnerships with leading providers such as Temenos and Q2 further enhance the value we deliver to our clients. We are delighted to welcome Tailwind’s talented team to UST and look forward to driving accelerated growth together,” said Vijay Padmanabhan, Chief Financial Officer, UST.

“Becoming part of UST is an exciting next chapter for the Tailwind team. Together, we can scale our Software as a Relationship (SAARTM) approach across the world while staying deeply focused on long-term client partnerships. Our shared values and cultural alignment make this a natural fit, and we’re energized by the opportunities ahead. We feel confident that, together, we will build - and launch - a new global software development standard,” said Paulo Vieira, Co-founder, Tailwind.

UST and Tailwind did not disclose the investment value.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced new minimum balance requirements for bank accounts, effective January 15, 2026. Savings account holders must now maintain ₹5,000 in metro cities, ₹3,000 in semi-urban areas, and ₹1,000 in rural regions, while current accounts face higher standardized thresholds. The move aims to bring uniformity across banks, reduce hidden penalty charges, and improve transparency in how account maintenance fees are applied.

This change will particularly affect urban customers who face a steep increase, while rural thresholds remain modest. Special zero-balance accounts like Jan Dhan Yojana remain exempt.

Effective Date: January 15, 2026
Savings accounts now require different minimum balances depending on region.

Key Highlights

• Savings Accounts: ₹5,000 (Metro), ₹3,000 (Semi-urban), ₹1,000 (Rural)
• Current Accounts: Higher standardized thresholds
• Objective: Standardize norms, reduce hidden charges, ensure transparency

Comparison Table

Account Type	Old Rules (varied by bank)	New Rules (RBI standard, Jan 2026)
Savings – Metro	₹2,000–₹3,000	₹5,000
Savings – Semi-urban	₹1,000–₹2,000	₹3,000
Savings – Rural	₹500–₹1,000	₹1,000
Current Accounts	₹5,000–₹10,000	Higher, standardized by RBI

Implications for Account Holders

• Uniform penalties for falling below minimum balance
• Digital banking users must adjust to higher thresholds
• Rural customers face modest increases; metro customers see larger jumps
• Transparency in communication of charges

Actionable Steps

• Check your bank’s notifications for updated guidelines
• Adjust monthly budgets to maintain required balances
• Explore zero-balance accounts (Jan Dhan, special schemes remain exempt)
• Set SMS/email alerts for low balances

Axis Bank, one of the largest private sector banks in India, announced the launch of its new ‘Safety Centre’ on the Axis mobile banking app ‘open’. This security hub empowers customers with real-time, customer-controlled security features to safeguard their accounts against unauthorized or suspicious activities, without the need to call customer care or visit a branch.

The Safety Centre offers granular control over key digital banking functions, enabling customers to tailor security settings based on their usage and comfort. Key features include:

• SMS Shield: An industry-first feature, it verifies the authenticity of SMS messages by checking the Sender ID against Axis Bank’s official IDs.
• Turn off Internet Banking: Disable Internet Banking access completely if not required. 
• Stop Funds Transfer: Instantly restrict all fund transfer capabilities across Mobile Banking and Internet Banking with a single toggle. 
• Prevents Online Shopping using Net Banking: This feature also blocks transactions initiated through third-party apps (e.g. e-commerce platforms) that use Net Banking as a payment mode. 
• Stop UPI Payments: Restrict UPI transactions via the Axis Mobile Apps
• Prevent Addition of New Payees: Ensure funds can only be transferred to existing beneficiaries.
• Set Limits for Fund Transfers & UPI: Define per-transaction limits for fund transfers and UPI payments; higher-value transactions will require an additional authentication.

ICICI Bank today announced the launch of the Capital Gains Account Scheme (CGAS), enabling customers to deposit un-invested long term capital gains or sale proceeds from the sale of specified capital assets*. This facility allows them to avail tax exemptions* for up to three years while earning interest on deposited funds.

The launch follows the Government’s approval of ICICI Bank as an authorised institution to handle CGAS deposits.

Starting January 1, 2026, this scheme is available for Resident individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs). It will be available for non-individuals and NRIs shortly. It benefits taxpayers who are unable to reinvest long term capital gains before the Income Tax Return (ITR) filing deadline. Customers can open a Capital Gains Account by visiting their nearest ICICI Bank branch (except rural locations, as per CGAS rules).

An ICICI Bank spokesperson said, “We thank the Government of India for recognising ICICI Bank as an authorised institution for CGAS deposits. With this scheme, customers can park un-invested long term capital gains, earn interest, and claim tax exemptions, while planning reinvestment up to three years. This offering reinforces our commitment to deliver financial solutions that meet evolving customer needs.”

Key features & benefits of CGAS:

• Type A (Savings Account): Flexible withdrawals linked to approved reinvestment purposes
• Type B (Term Deposit Account): Cumulative or non-cumulative formats for fixed-tenure deposits. 
• Tax exemption: Deposit un-invested capital gains or sale proceeds before the ITR due date to claim exemption on long-term capital gains under relevant Income Tax sections. 
• Temporary parking of funds: Up to three years to plan reinvestment without losing exemption eligibility
• Interest earned: Similar to regular savings account or fixed deposits.
• Flexible reinvestment: Proceeds can be invested in property, agricultural land, or new capital assets of industrial undertaking in non-urban areas/ special economic zones depending on the CGAS chosen; withdrawal of proceeds requires proof of usage of funds. 

Parking overseas earnings in India without currency worries is a common challenge for NRIs. FCNR accounts allow holding funds in select foreign currencies while complying with Indian banking rules.

This article explains what an FCNR account is, how an FCNR deposit works, where it differs from NRE options, who can open it, key rules on tenure and interest, and practical checks before applying.

Queues at branches are shrinking as everyday banking moves to the phone and laptop. Families want quick set-ups, clear steps, and less paperwork. The shift is steady, and suits busy Indian routines.
In this article, you will explore the drivers behind the switch, the checks to complete before starting, and simple habits that help keep a new account in good shape.

Everyday factors behind the shift

A digital savings account fits daily life. Customers can complete onboarding after work, review balances at any hour, and store records without files piling up at home. Several practical reasons stand out:

• Time saved through guided forms and instant confirmations
• Fewer trips for KYC where video verification is available
• Simple document storage with soft copies and e-statements
• Clear visibility of fees, limits, and interest structures
• Alerts that encourage better money habits and flag unusual activity

Security is central. Banks like IDFC FIRST Bank use two-factor authentication, device registration, and real-time notifications. Customers can hot list a card, reset a PIN, or raise a service request on the app. These controls reduce friction while maintaining an orderly process.

How to open a savings account online smoothly

Many households choose to open savings account online because the process is simple and can be completed at a convenient time. Preparation helps:

• Keep Aadhaar and PAN ready, with details matching
• Ensure good network coverage for live photo or video KYC
• Decide the opening amount and set a standing instruction for monthly deposits
• Read the schedule of charges, including ATM use and cheque services
• Review transaction limits for UPI and card payments

During the journey, follow instructions carefully. Take clear photographs of documents and avoid multiple attempts. If regional language support is offered, pick the one you read most easily to reduce errors. Save the acknowledgement once the request is submitted.

Practical checks before you begin

A few safeguards make the experience safer:

• Confirm that the bank’s website and app are verified through official stores
• Use a private device and a secure internet connection
• Create strong credentials and register a trusted device
• Add alerts for low balance and large transactions
• Never share credentials and avoid screen sharing while entering sensitive data

Making the most of a new account

After activation, a little structure keeps things in order:

• Name goal-based pockets for school fees, rent, or a holiday
• Download monthly statements for personal records and tax filing
• Review nomination details and keep them current
• Set reminders for periodic reviews of charges and limits
• Track recurring payments so there are no missed bills
• Keep the branch contact details saved for cases when a visit is needed

Conclusion

The move to online account opening reflects everyday needs such as convenience, clarity, and better control. With preparation and sensible digital habits, customers can complete the process confidently. For features and eligibility, always refer to your chosen bank’s official pages. You can read savings product-specific information on IDFC FIRST Bank’s website. Current details and documentation requirements, policies and processes may change at a bank level, so review the latest notices before applying.

South Indian Bank has announced the launch of SIB Power CONSOL, a new loan product designed to support customers reorganize and manage multiple debts more efficiently, with reduced interest rates and unified EMI. Targeted at salaried customers, SEP (Self-Employed Professionals), and SENP (Self-Employed Non-Professionals) between 30 and 55 years of age, the product aims to simplify repayment and reduce the financial burden caused by managing multiple loans at once.

SIB Power CONSOL enables customers to consolidate various loans—including home loans, car loans, education loans, personal loans, and consumer durable loans—into a single loan with a lower interest rate and unified EMI. By doing so, the Bank acts as a Debt Counsellor, offering customers a clearer and more manageable repayment structure. This is a property based loan where the customer can mortgage either house property or commercial buildings and borrow upto 75% of the property value, optimising its worth without disposing it. SIB Power CONSOL is having consolidation options ranging widely from Rs.10.00 lakh to Rs.3.00 Crores.

Under the new product, Individuals can avail of consolidation loans ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹3 crore, with repayment terms of up to 15 years for consolidated loans and up to 30 years for home loan balance transfers. Once the loan is approved, SIB will directly clear the customer’s outstanding dues, replacing them with a single, manageable monthly repayment aligned with their current financial capacity. Adopting the Repayment Track Record-based lending, SIB Power CONSOL keeps the documentation very minimal. Zero processing fee also adds to its unique features.

This new product highlights SIB's commitment to offering smart financial solutions that cater to individuals' evolving needs. The product also helps reduce the overall financial burden associated with high-interest loans. The lower interest rates on consolidated loans offered by SIB will reduce the financial burden on customers. They will also benefit from the long-term repayment options offered through this service.

For more information on SIB Power CONSOL, visit your nearest South Indian Bank branch or log on to https://www.southindianbank.com/

About South Indian Bank:

South Indian Bank is a Kerala-based private sector Bank with a nationwide presence. The Bank’s shares are listed on the Stock Exchange Mumbai (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd., Mumbai (NSE). South Indian Bank has 948 branches, 5 Ultra Small Branches / Satellite Branches, 1143 ATMs, and 126 CRMs across India and a representative office in Dubai, UAE. For more information, please log on to https://www.southindianbank.com/

Bank of India, one of India’s leading public sector banks reinforced its commitment to digital innovation and customer-centric solutions with the launch of four breakthrough products and initiatives aimed at enhancing security, convenience, and inclusivity in banking. The launches were unveiled during the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2025, where the Bank made a strong impression with its engaging and interactive booth.

The Bank’s booth was inaugurated by Dr. Arjun Deore, IFS, Regional Passport Officer & Head, MEA Branch, Mumbai, in the presence of Shri Rajneesh Karnatak, MD & CEO, and senior leadership of the Bank. Dr. Deore commended the Bank’s leadership in driving digital innovation and introducing cutting-edge solutions relevant to today’s evolving financial landscape.

Among the key launches was a Proof-of-Concept (PoC) solution designed to prevent fraudsters from registering on mobile banking applications through social engineering or fraudulent calls. The PoC was inaugurated by Shri Atul Kumar Goel, CE, IBA, who described the initiative as a potential game changer for the banking sector, addressing one of its most critical cybersecurity challenges.

The Bank also introduced NPCI’s biometric-based UPI transactions for small-value payments via mobile phones. This solution simplifies the user journey by mitigating UPI PIN fatigue and reducing transaction time by up to 20%, thereby improving the overall payment experience.

The National Urban Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation Ltd (NUCFDC), the Umbrella Organisation for India’s Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with CSC e-Governance Services India Ltd. (CSC SPV) to fast-track the sector’s digital transformation.

The partnership aims to equip UCBs with secure and compliant digital infrastructure. The rollout will be undertaken in phases, beginning with Aadhaar-based eKYC, eSign, digital signature certificates, DigiLocker integration, e-stamp services, cloud hosting, data centre management, and cybersecurity solutions. Subsequent phases will introduce internet and mobile banking, kiosk-based services, and digital communication platforms.

NUCFDC will facilitate adoption across its member UCBs, while CSC SPV will provide platforms, APIs, and operational support. A joint governance team will oversee implementation and capacity building. The agreement also covers training, compliance support, grievance redressal, and data protection measures, with an emphasis on aligning with applicable regulatory norms to strengthen institutional processes within the UCBs.

The MoU was formally signed in Mumbai in the presence of Shri Prabhat Chaturvedi, CEO, NUCFDC, and Shri Bhagwan Patil, Group President, CSC SPV.

Commenting on the partnership, Shri Prabhat Chaturvedi, CEO, NUCFDC, said, “The Urban Cooperative Banking sector needs to leapfrog into the digital era along with its legacy grassroots character. This partnership equips UCBs with future-ready digital infrastructure, enabling them to serve millions with greater efficiency, transparency, and compliance. At a time when financial inclusion and trust are central to sectoral growth, this collaboration places UCBs firmly on the path of modernisation and resilience.”

Shri Bhagwan Patil, Group President, CSC SPV, said, “CSC SPV’s digital backbone, coupled with NUCFDC’s institutional mandate, creates a powerful Technology platform for transformation of Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs). Together, we will deliver scalable solutions that strengthen the Cooperative Bank sector and also ensure last-mile citizens experience banking services with the same convenience. This is about reimagining urban cooperative banking for a digital India.”

About The National Urban Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation (NUCFDC)

The National Urban Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation Ltd. (NUCFDC) serves as the umbrella organization for India’s Urban Cooperative Banking (UCB) sector. Constituted with the support of the Ministry of Cooperation and in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India, NUCFDC has been mandated to explore avenues for capital mobilisation and enhance the professionalisation of the sector. It also aims to strengthen public confidence in UCBs by fostering a unified, resilient, and transparent banking framework.

About The CSC e-Governance Services India Ltd. (CSC SPV)

CSC SPV is a Special Purpose Vehicle incorporated as a Company under Companies Act to implement CSC Scheme and monitor Common Service Centers (CSC) incorporated under CSC Scheme and enables a range of services to be delivered through CSCs like Government to Citizen (G2C), Business to Customers (B2C), Business to Business (B2B). Education, Skills and other services to rural citizens. Also, it provides services for e-sign, e-KYC, Digilocker, Data Centre and other services.

In a landmark moment for financial technology, HSBC has unveiled results from a quantum computing trial that could redefine how Wall Street approaches bond trading. The bank’s experiment, conducted in partnership with IBM, demonstrated a 34% improvement in predicting bond trade execution—an edge that could translate into billions in competitive advantage.

Quantum Meets Wall Street

State Bank of India (SBI), the country’s largest lender, today, announced the successful completion of the divestment of a 13.18% (approx.) stake in Yes Bank Limited (YBL) to Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC). SMBC is a Japanese multinational financial services company belonging to the Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG) and is amongst the leading foreign banks in India. SMFG is the second largest Banking Group in Japan with Total Assets of US$ 2.0 trillion (approx.).

Mr. C. S. Setty, Chairman, IBA & SBI

Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, announced the launch of bob Digi Udyam – a digital, collateral-free lending platform offering Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) quick access to working capital loans above ₹10 lakh to ₹50 lakh. The initiative, aligned with the Union Budget 2024–25 announcement that public sector banks would develop in-house capabilities for MSME credit assessment, leverages the digital footprint of MSEs to enable faster credit assessment and reduce reliance on external assessment. This marks a major step in strengthening credit accessibility for India’s small businesses. The scheme is open to both existing and new customers of the Bank.

The bob Digi Udyam platform leverages a wide range of digital data points to comprehensively assess credit applications. It generates an automated, risk-based scorecard that enables seamless credit assessment, significantly reducing the turnaround time for loan processing. A provisional sanction is provided within minutes, after which the application is automatically routed to branches through TEJAS, the Bank’s Loan Origination & Processing System for the MSME segment, for final sanction and post-sanction formalities.

Eligible entities can apply for loans under bob Digi Udyam through both Do-it-Yourself (DIY) and Assisted mode at branches. The platform conducts digital eligibility checks, risk assessment, and credit limit calculations, ensuring a seamless and transparent lending process.

Speaking on the launch, Shri Lal Singh, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda, said, “MSEs are key drivers of India’s economy, yet timely credit remains a challenge. With bob Digi Udyam, we bring a digital, cash flow-based lending model that delivers quick, collateral-free working capital finance. bob Digi Udyam is a step towards making MSE credit truly accessible, with plans to expand the offering to cover a wider range of credit needs and higher ticket sizes.”

bob Digi Udyam – At a Glance

• Purpose: Digital, cash flow-based working capital finance for MSEs
• Facilities: Cash Credit & Overdraft facilities
• Loan Size: Above ₹10 lakh to ₹50 lakh
• Tenure: 12 months
• Collateral: Nil – covered under CGTMSE

bob Digi Udyam aligns with the Government of India and Reserve Bank of India’s vision for digital transformation in MSE lending, broadening access to bank credit and empowering India’s MSE businesses to grow sustainably. Bank of Baroda is aligned with the Government’s vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.

Applicants can apply for bob Digi Udyam, by clicking on https://mllps.bankofbaroda.co.in/BOBSTPCustomerPortal/

About Bank of Baroda

Founded on 20th July, 1908 by Sir Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Bank of Baroda is one of the leading commercial banks in India. At 63.97% stake, it is majorly owned by the Government of India. The Bank serves its global customer base of over ~180 million through around 65,000 touch points spread across 17 countries in five continents and through its various digital banking platforms, which provide all banking products and services in a seamless and hassle-free manner. The Bank’s vision matches the aspirations of its diverse clientele base and seeks to instil a sense of trust and security in all their dealings with the Bank.

Visit us at www.bankofbaroda.in

HCLTech, a leading global technology company, today announced a global partnership with Thought Machine, a pioneer in cloud native banking technology, to accelerate the modernization of banks worldwide. The partnership aims to enable banks to rapidly transition from legacy systems and frameworks to intelligent, autonomous financial institutions powered by AI and cloud technologies.

Thought Machine’s Vault platform — next-generation core banking and payments technology — will be at the core of this transformation. By replacing outdated infrastructure with Vault’s cloud native architecture, banks can automate key operations, enhance efficiency and deliver personalized customer experiences. HCLTech will bring its deep expertise in banking technology, regulatory compliance and complex integrations to support rapid innovation and faster product launches.

As part of the partnership, HCLTech will offer full-stack transformation services through Vault-certified delivery teams, global fintech Centers of Excellence (CoEs) and a robust DevSecOps foundation. The company will also establish a dedicated global CoE for Vault Core and Vault Payments, focused on delivering modular, real-time and scalable solutions for the financial services sector. The joint offering will enable banks, whether established institutions or new challengers, to build agile, resilient and future-ready ecosystems rooted in AI-led strategies.

“Our global partnership with HCLTech marks a significant step in helping banks break free from legacy constraints and adopt truly digital-first models,” said Randy McFarlane, Global Head of Partnerships at Thought Machine. “Together, we will deliver intelligent, self-optimizing systems that evolve with customer needs.”

“This collaboration reflects our vision to lead the future of autonomous banking through cloud, data and AI,” said Sudip Lahiri, Executive Vice President and Head—Europe and UKI, Financial Services, HCLTech. “By joining forces with Thought Machine, we will help banks unlock exponential value, reduce operational friction and accelerate time to market.”

About Thought Machine

Thought Machine has developed the foundations of modern banking with its cloud-native core banking and payments technology. Its cloud-native core banking platform, Vault Core, is trusted by leading banks and financial institutions worldwide, including Intesa Sanpaolo, ING Bank Śląski, Lloyds Banking Group, Standard Chartered, SEB, Lunar, Atom bank, Curve, and more.

Vault Payments is a cloud-native payments processing platform – comprising a Universal Payment Engine to support all card and account-to-account payment types.

Vault Core and Vault Payments have been written from scratch as an entirely cloud-native system, giving banks full control to build any product required to flourish in a rapidly changing world.

Thought Machine is a global team spread across offices in London, New York, Singapore, and Sydney and has raised more than $500m in funding.

For more information, visit thoughtmachine.net

A joint study by Ripple, CB Insights, and the UK Centre for Blockchain Technologies titled Banking on Digital Assets reveals:

• Over $100 billion invested by traditional banks in blockchain infrastructure (2020–2024).
• 345 blockchain deals, including 33 mega-rounds over $100 million.
• Top investors: Citigroup, Goldman Sachs (18 deals each), JPMorgan Chase, Mitsubishi UFJ (15 deals each), SBI Group.

What Are Banks Investing In?

Focus Area	Details
Payment Infrastructure	Largest share of investments; modernizing cross-border payments
Digital Asset Custody	65% of banks exploring custody services
Tokenization of Real-World Assets	Stablecoins and tokenized bonds are top priorities
Settlement & Issuance Rails	25% of deals focused on blockchain-based settlement systems

• Examples: HSBC’s tokenized gold platform, Goldman Sachs’ GS DAP, SBI’s quantum-resistant currency.