Two Deals, One Big Leap: What CCI’s Nod Means for India’s Banking & Steel Future

India’s regulatory landscape witnessed two pivotal approvals this week, underscoring the country’s attractiveness for global and domestic investors. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) cleared Emirates NBD Bank’s proposal to acquire a controlling stake in RBL Bank, alongside Tata Steel’s acquisition of a majority stake in Thriveni Pellets Private Limited (TPPL).

Key Highlights

Emirates NBD – RBL Bank Deal:

• Approval for acquisition of 51%–74% stake in RBL Bank.

Structure includes:

• Mandatory open offer under SEBI rules for up to 26% of voting capital.
• Preferential allotment of equity shares, potentially giving Emirates NBD up to 60% ownership.
• Merger of Emirates NBD’s India operations into RBL Bank.
• Investment estimated at USD 3 billion (₹26,850 crore).

Tata Steel – Thriveni Pellets Stake:

• CCI cleared Tata Steel’s purchase of 50.01% stake in TPPL.
• Strengthens Tata Steel’s raw material security and pellet production capacity.
• Strategic move to enhance supply chain resilience and reduce dependency on external sources.

Sources: The Economic Times, Financial Express, CNBC TV18, BusinessLine