RBI Liquidity Snapshot: Banks Hoard ₹7.54 Lakh Cr as Rupee Holds Steady at 90.35

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released key liquidity indicators for December 17, revealing robust cash reserves in the banking system despite ongoing govt cash management operations. Banks maintained substantial balances, reflecting comfortable liquidity conditions even as year-end dynamics play out. The rupee showed resilience, opening marginally stronger amid stable dollar flows.

This data underscores RBI's effective liquidity management through refinance facilities and auctions, preventing any tightening pressures ahead of potential festive-season demands.

Key Highlights:

Bank Cash Balances: ₹7.54 trillion with RBI as of Dec 17.

Govt Surplus Cash: ₹571.75 billion available for auction.

Refinance Facility: RBI provided ₹99.22 billion on Dec 17.

MSF Borrowing: Minimal at ₹3.54 billion, indicating surplus liquidity.

Rupee Movement: Opened at 90.35/USD, up slightly from 90.38 previous close.

Source: Reuters (RTRS) real-time updates; RBI daily statistics.