ICICI Bank

Shares of ICICI Bank declined in market trading following the release of its third-quarter earnings, as investors weighed strong headline numbers against emerging margin and cost concerns. While the private-sector lender reported stable growth in loans and maintained healthy asset quality, the market reaction underscored heightened sensitivity to valuation, operating expenses, and forward guidance. The stock’s movement reflected a broader trend in financial markets, where even fundamentally sound results are being scrutinized closely amid an uncertain interest-rate environment.

Indian equity markets closed lower as sustained selling pressure in index heavyweights, led by Reliance Industries and ICICI Bank, overshadowed selective gains elsewhere. Investor sentiment remained cautious amid mixed global cues, valuation concerns in frontline stocks, and renewed focus on interest rate trajectories. Banking and energy stocks bore the brunt of the decline, dragging benchmark indices into the red despite pockets of resilience in mid-cap and defensive names.

ICICI Bank reported a 3.2% year-on-year increase in net profit for the second quarter of FY2024–25, reaching Rs. 13,357 crore, supported by steady loan growth, stable net interest margins, and disciplined risk management. The private sector lender witnessed growth across retail, SME, and corporate lending segments, while maintaining robust asset quality. Fee-based income and digital banking initiatives also contributed to overall profitability.

Chanda Kochhar, the former chief executive of ICICI Bank, has been found guilty of receiving a Rs. 64-crore bribe in connection with the approval of a Rs. 300-crore loan to the Videocon Group. The court’s findings confirm longstanding suspicions of quid pro quo dealings between Kochhar, her husband Deepak Kochhar, and Videocon’s promoter, Venugopal Dhoot.

ICICI Bank reported a robust set of earnings for the first quarter of FY2025, with net profit rising 16% year-on-year to Rs. 10,636 crore, driven by strong loan growth, higher net interest income, and stable asset quality. The performance exceeded market expectations and led to a 3% rise in the bank’s share price during early trade. Backed by resilient margins, growing retail credit, and prudent risk management, ICICI Bank continues to consolidate its position as a leading private sector lender with a well-balanced growth strategy and consistent execution.

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ICICI Bank reported a robust 16% year-on-year increase in net profit for the first quarter of FY2025, driven by healthy loan growth, improved asset quality, and strong operating metrics. The private sector lender posted a net profit of Rs. 11,981 crore for the quarter ended June 30, up from Rs. 10,636 crore in the corresponding period last year. Despite moderating net interest margins, the bank maintained earnings momentum through cost controls and higher fee-based income.