In a landmark move for India’s banking sector, Japan’s Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) has received approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to acquire up to 24.99% stake in Yes Bank. The decision, announced on August 23, 2025, marks one of the largest cross-border investments in Indian financial services and paves the way for SMBC to join Yes Bank’s board with two seats. The development is expected to reshape Yes Bank’s strategic direction and deepen Indo-Japanese financial cooperation.
Key Highlights
RBI has approved SMBC’s acquisition of up to 24.99% of Yes Bank’s paid-up share capital and voting rights
SMBC will be allotted two board seats, enhancing its influence on governance and strategic decisions
The approval is valid for one year from August 22, 2025, and subject to compliance with multiple regulatory frameworks
SMBC will not be classified as a promoter of Yes Bank, avoiding additional regulatory obligations
The acquisition follows a previously announced plan to purchase a 20% stake for ₹13,482 crore
Breakdown of the Proposed Transaction
The acquisition is structured as a secondary share purchase from existing shareholders:
13.19% stake to be acquired from State Bank of India (SBI)
6.81% stake to be purchased from seven other banks: Axis Bank, Bandhan Bank, Federal Bank, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, IDFC First Bank, and Kotak Mahindra Bank
This strategic realignment will reduce SBI’s holding in Yes Bank from 23.97% to approximately 10.78%, while SMBC becomes the largest single shareholder without promoter status.
Strategic Implications for Yes Bank
Capital Strengthening The ₹13,482 crore infusion will bolster Yes Bank’s Tier-1 capital, supporting credit growth and balance sheet expansion.
Governance Overhaul With two board seats, SMBC is expected to bring global best practices in risk management, compliance, and digital transformation.
Operational Synergies SMBC’s expertise in corporate banking, trade finance, and treasury operations could enhance Yes Bank’s product offerings and cross-border capabilities.
Investor Confidence The RBI’s approval and SMBC’s commitment signal regulatory stability and institutional trust, potentially improving Yes Bank’s valuation and market perception.
Regulatory Conditions and Next Steps
The transaction is subject to approval from the Competition Commission of India (CCI)
Compliance with the Banking Regulation Act, Foreign Exchange Management Act, and RBI’s Master Directions is mandatory
Lock-in requirements and future stake increases will be governed by RBI’s discretion
Yes Bank has confirmed that all customary conditions precedent outlined in its May 9, 2025 disclosure remain in force.
Market Reaction and Analyst View
Yes Bank shares closed 0.8% lower at ₹19.28 on BSE following the announcement, reflecting cautious optimism
Analysts expect the deal to be earnings-accretive in FY26, with improved asset quality and operational metrics
Brokerage firms have revised their outlook on Yes Bank, citing improved governance and capital adequacy
SMBC’s Broader Strategy
SMBC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG), manages over $2 trillion in assets and is Japan’s second-largest banking group. The Yes Bank investment aligns with SMBC’s global expansion strategy, particularly in high-growth emerging markets.
SMBC has previously invested in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa
The India deal marks its largest single-country investment in banking outside Japan
Conclusion
SMBC’s entry into Yes Bank marks a transformative moment for both institutions. With capital infusion, board representation, and strategic alignment, the partnership is poised to unlock new growth avenues and reinforce Yes Bank’s position in India’s competitive banking landscape.
Sources: The Hindu, Business Today
