The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced its Monetary Policy in October 2025, keeping the repo rate unchanged at 5.50%. While many expected a rate pause, the RBI also surprised markets with a set of regulatory reforms that boosted investor confidence. This policy is being seen as a positive for the banking and financial sector, and several stocks are likely to benefit.
In this article, let’s look at the list of stocks that can gain from the RBI’s repo rate decision and reforms.
📌 Why Banks Benefit from RBI Repo Rate Pause
- Stable Margins: No immediate rise in borrowing costs allows banks to protect their Net Interest Margins (NIMs).
- Increased Lending Flexibility: RBI has relaxed lending norms for capital markets and large borrowers.
- Positive Sentiment: Regulatory reforms improve long-term growth prospects for the banking sector.
🏦 List of Banking & Financial Stocks to Watch
1. HDFC Bank
India’s largest private lender is well-placed to gain from stable rates and eased lending norms. Strong retail credit demand can boost earnings.
2. ICICI Bank
ICICI Bank’s focus on corporate lending and capital market exposure makes it a direct beneficiary of the RBI’s relaxation on exposure limits.
3. State Bank of India (SBI)
As the largest PSU bank, SBI is set to benefit from corporate lending opportunities and risk-based deposit insurance reforms.
4. Axis Bank
Axis Bank’s strong retail and corporate portfolio could see higher growth with improved credit flow.
5. Kotak Mahindra Bank
Kotak’s conservative balance sheet will benefit from risk-based deposit insurance, making it more competitive.
6. IndusInd Bank
Exposure to commercial lending and mid-corporate borrowers positions IndusInd as a key beneficiary.
7. Bajaj Finance & Bajaj Finserv
NBFCs like Bajaj Finance are likely to see stable borrowing costs and improved liquidity, supporting retail loan growth.
8. HDFC Ltd (HDFC Housing Finance arm)
Housing finance companies benefit directly from stable rates, as loan EMIs remain attractive for home buyers.
9. LIC Housing Finance
The real estate sector gains from affordable financing, boosting housing finance demand.
10. Bank of Baroda & Punjab National Bank (PNB)
PSU banks will see stronger credit growth and reduced cost pressures under new RBI reforms.
📈 Impact on Stock Market
- Bank Nifty jumped nearly 600 points post-policy, showing strong investor optimism.
- Banking and financial stocks led the rally, while NBFCs and housing finance companies also gained.
- Analysts expect the rally to sustain if credit growth remains strong in Q3 FY25.
✅ Conclusion
The RBI’s October 2025 policy is being seen as a festive gift for the banking sector, with both private and PSU banks set to benefit. Investors should keep an eye on leading banking and financial stocks such as HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, SBI, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Bajaj Finance, and LIC Housing Finance.
👉 In short, this RBI policy strengthens the outlook for the entire banking and financial services sector, making it a good time to track quality stocks in this space.