Why bank stocks are an oasis for investors in desert of chaos

Over the past week, the banking and financial services sector has regained strong momentum. In calendar year 2025 so far, the Bank Nifty and Nifty Financial Services indices have delivered impressive gains of over 8% and 12%, respectively, significantly outperforming the Nifty 50 benchmark, which has returned just 2.5%. We had earlier mentioned that private sector banks would outperform PSU banks, and once again, the overall banking sector is likely to emerge as a frontrunner in the market rally.

Importantly, this uptrend is not a short-lived bounce but a reflection of underlying structural and macroeconomic tailwinds that are beginning to materialize after a prolonged phase of modest rally. For several quarters, the financial sector trailed the broader market. However, it now appears well-positioned with a compelling combination of value and earnings visibility.

Valuation Comfort and Risk-Reward Alignment


From a valuation perspective, financial stocks, particularly private sector banks are trading at compelling levels. The Price-to-Book (P/B) ratios are currently well below their 10-year historical averages. This provides investors a cushion of safety and a favourable risk-reward setup. For long-term investors, this means exposure to a fundamentally improving sector at attractive valuations, a rare confluence in equity markets.


The combined PAT of financial sector companies within the Nifty 500 currently accounts for nearly 40% of the total earnings of all Nifty 500 constituents. However, their share in the overall market capitalization stands at just 25%.

Strong Fundamental Triggers Backing the Rally


Several recent policy actions by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) have laid the groundwork for sustainable growth in the sector. In December 2024, the RBI reduced the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) by 50 basis points, bringing it down to 4%. This move alone released a significant amount of liquidity into the banking system, providing banks with greater firepower to boost lending activities.

Additionally, the repo rate has been lowered by 50 basis points cumulatively, now standing at 6% versus the previous level of 6.5%. This softening in interest rates will lower the cost of funds for borrowers, encouraging fresh demand for credit, especially in the retail and MSME segments. The RBI’s approach has been proactive and growth-oriented, with timely measures aimed at accelerating credit expansion while safeguarding financial stability.

Improving Asset Quality


Fundamentally, the sector is also on solid footing. With the sharp improvement in asset quality. Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) are at multi-year lows, reflecting stronger underwriting standards and a healthier credit environment. This signals greater trust in the banking system and provides banks with a stronger base to fund future lending.

Technical Breakout Indicates Trend Reversal


From a technical standpoint, the ratio chart of Nifty to Bank Nifty recently witnessed a multi-year breakout, indicating a clear shift in momentum back to financials. This is further reinforced by the fact that both Bank Nifty and Nifty Financial Services indices have recently scaled new all-time highs. These technical confirmations signal strength and suggest a broader institutional accumulation within the sector.



Rising FPI Confidence in Financials


Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) are also displaying growing confidence in the sector. Recent data shows that the weightage of financial services in the total FPI Assets under Custody (AUC) has been steadily increasing. This uptick in sectoral allocation suggests that global investors are finding Indian financials both attractive and resilient in the current market environment.



(Source: NSDL)

Conclusion

The recent rally in banking and financial services is not just a technical bounce but a reflection of strong fundamentals, attractive valuations, and supportive macro policies. With improving asset quality, rising earnings contribution, and increased FPI interest, the sector is well-positioned for a structural re-rating, offering investors a compelling opportunity ahead.


(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are that of the writer. The facts and opinions expressed here do not reflect the views of www.economictimes.com)