Image Source: www.smbc.co.jp
In a significant reshuffling of foreign ownership in India’s banking sector, Japan’s Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) has sold its entire 1.65 percent stake in Kotak Mahindra Bank through bulk deals on the National Stock Exchange. The transaction, executed at ₹1,940.80 per share, involved the sale of 32.2 million shares and amounted to approximately ₹6,166 crore. This strategic exit comes as SMBC prepares to redirect its capital toward a major investment in Yes Bank, following regulatory approvals for a near-25 percent stake acquisition.
The bulk deal was executed on September 10, 2025, and marks one of the largest foreign divestments in Kotak Mahindra Bank in recent years. Market analysts are closely watching the implications of this move, which signals a shift in SMBC’s India strategy and could influence investor sentiment across both Kotak and Yes Bank counters.
Key Highlights from the Transaction
SMBC sold 32.2 million shares of Kotak Mahindra Bank via bulk deals on NSE
Shares were priced at ₹1,940.80 each, totaling ₹6,166 crore in transaction value
The sale represents SMBC’s full 1.65 percent stake in Kotak Mahindra Bank
Proceeds are expected to fund SMBC’s planned investment in Yes Bank
The move follows RBI and Competition Commission of India approvals for SMBC to acquire up to 24.99 percent in Yes Bank
Strategic Realignment: From Kotak to Yes Bank
SMBC’s exit from Kotak Mahindra Bank is widely viewed as a strategic reallocation of capital. The Japanese lender has received regulatory clearance to acquire nearly 25 percent in Yes Bank, a deal valued at ₹14,000 crore. This investment is part of SMBC’s broader plan to deepen its footprint in India’s retail and corporate banking space.
By divesting its stake in Kotak, SMBC avoids potential conflicts of interest and frees up capital for its new partnership. The timing of the sale—just ahead of its formal entry into Yes Bank—suggests a calculated pivot toward a more active role in shaping the future of one of India’s recovering private banks.
Market Reaction and Investor Sentiment
Kotak Mahindra Bank shares initially dipped 0.5 percent on the news but recovered to close 0.5 percent higher at ₹1,960.40
Year-to-date, Kotak’s stock has gained over 10 percent, reflecting strong fundamentals despite foreign divestment
Analysts view the exit as neutral to mildly positive, given the orderly nature of the bulk deal and Kotak’s diversified ownership base
Institutional buyers, including mutual funds and foreign investors, are believed to have absorbed the stake, minimizing volatility
Implications for Kotak Mahindra Bank
While SMBC’s exit removes a long-term foreign investor from Kotak’s cap table, the bank remains well-capitalized and continues to enjoy strong brand equity. The sale does not reflect any operational concerns but rather SMBC’s strategic priorities. Kotak’s focus on digital banking, wealth management, and SME lending remains intact, and the bank is expected to maintain its growth trajectory.
Yes Bank’s New Chapter with SMBC
For Yes Bank, SMBC’s entry could be transformative. The Japanese lender brings global expertise, capital strength, and a reputation for conservative banking. Analysts expect SMBC’s involvement to bolster Yes Bank’s governance, risk management, and international partnerships. The infusion of funds will also support Yes Bank’s balance sheet and expansion plans.
Conclusion
Sumitomo Mitsui’s ₹6,166 crore exit from Kotak Mahindra Bank marks a pivotal moment in India’s banking landscape. As the Japanese giant prepares to anchor itself in Yes Bank, the move reflects a strategic recalibration aimed at deeper engagement and operational influence. Sumitomo Mitsuitransition is smooth and signals resilience, while for Yes Bank, it opens the door to a new era of foreign-backed growth.
Sources: Mint Mumbai, NDTV Profit, Stocktwits News
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