UFBU Meeting 23 January 2026 Updates - 5 Days Banking

Today (23.01.26) again a meeting was held between UFBU, DFS, IBA, CLC and Bank Management for implementation of 5-Day Banking. The meeting was held at 3:30 PM in continuation to yesterday’s (22.01.26) meeting. Yesterday, the talks between UFBU and the Government of India failed, and the strike continued. Today also, the talks between UFBU and the government failed, and the strike will be conducted all across India on 27 January 2026.

Once again, the conciliation proceedings started to discuss the issue contained in the strike notice dated 08.01.2026 for the proposed strike to be held on 27.01.2026. At the outset, the Ld. representatives of DFS submitted that things are moving in the right direction and some decisions have been taken yesterday in favour of the Financial Sector. Accordingly, he requested the Ld. representatives of UFBU to reconsider their stand and defer the strike reflecting good gesture which may lead to positive outcomes.

At this stage, the Ld. representatives of IBA also requested in the same line of DFS and reiterated to consider the appeal so as to ensure that the dignitaries persuading their causes before the competent authorities may be strengthened to put forth their submission positively.

On the other hand, the Ld. representatives of UFBU reiterated that they are aware about the meaning and consequence of strike which is the ultimate legal right with the workmen. As such, they are not also of the intent to use such a stringent measure for pressing on the demand but as they have already deferred three such consecutive occasions of the proposed strike on some of the issues which contained the issue of 5 days banking also. As the Govt. is not at all responding on the issue of 5 days banking, they do not have any option in such compelling circumstances but resort to strike.

As the stalemate continued, the CLC(C) as Conciliation Officer also made an appeal to the Ld. union representatives to reconsider and avoid any direct action in the public interest so that industrial harmony be maintained. At the same time, the CLC(C) also advised other stakeholders to convey the message at appropriate level and try their level best to resolve the issue in public interest. It is also pertinent to mention at this stage that office of the CLC(C) is always open to facilitate the dialogue whenever it is required.

In the meantime, the provisions contained u/s 33(1) and 22 of the ID Act, 1947 shall remain in vogue. Next date in the matter is fixed on 09.03.2026 at 11.30 AM.

🗞️ What's happening right now about Strike

• Nationwide bank strike planned for  January 27, 2026 — Bank employee unions under the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) have called a one-day nationwide strike to press for the implementation of a full five-day work week (i.e., both Saturdays off). 

• Banks likely to be closed for up to four days, from Jan 24–27, 2026 — because the strike overlaps with regular weekend holidays and Republic Day holidays. 

• Disruption in banking services expected across Gujarat and other states on Jan 27, with many branches closed and services slowed down. Around 800,000 bank employees are expected to participate nationwide; in Bihar alone, about 8,100 branches and 50,000 staff are involved. 

• Unions have also been urging political support (for example from West Bengal’s Chief Minister) to strengthen their strike call and demands. 

• The strike demand centers around the five-day working week, a change that was recommended by the banking industry earlier but hasn’t yet been formally implemented by the government. 

📌 Why it matters

• Customer impact: Physical bank branches may be shut on the strike day — but digital services (mobile banking, ATMs, online transfers) often remain available. Plan ahead for essential transactions. 

• Union demands: The main focus is the five-day work week, but bank workers often include other issues in agitation (staff shortages, working conditions, staffing norms etc.). 

If you’d like, I can pull specific state-wise closure lists or official notifications from your local banks for Jan 27 specifically.

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Financial Results of Banks for Q3FY26

 

The public sector and private sector banks have released the financial results for Q2FY26. 

Public Sector Bank

Bank	Results
Bank of India (BoI)	Click Here
Punjab & Sind Bank	Click Here
Central Bank of India	Click Here
Union Bank of India	Click Here
Indian Overseas Bank	Click Here
Bank of Maharashtra	Click Here
State Bank of India (SBI)	Click Here
Punjab National Bank (PNB)	Click Here
Bank of Baroda (BoB)	Click Here
Canara Bank	Click Here
Indian Bank	Click Here
UCO Bank	Click Here

Private Banks

Bank	Results
IDBI Bank	Click Here
Kotak Mahindra Bank	Click Here
IDFC First Bank	Click Here
HDFC Bank	Click Here
ICICI Bank	Click Here
Indusind Bank	Click Here
Federal Bank	Click Here
Bandhan Bank	Click Here
Axis Bank	Click Here

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Bank of India(BOI) Q3 Net profit up 8%

State-run Bank of India on Wednesday (January 21) reported a 7.5% year-on-year increase in net profit for the third quarter, with profit rising to ₹2,705 crore compared with ₹2,516.7 crore in the corresponding quarter last year.

Net interest income for the quarter grew 6.5% year-on-year to ₹6,462.6 crore, up from ₹6,070.3 crore in the same period a year ago. Gross non-performing assets declined to 2.26% from 2.54% in the previous quarter, while net non-performing assets eased to 0.60% from 0.65% sequentially.

Bank of India’s global advances grew 13.63% year-on-year, with domestic advances rising 15.16% YoY. The bank’s total global business crossed the ₹16 lakh crore milestone. Overseas advances increased 5.70% YoY.

On the domestic front, retail advances grew 20.64% YoY, agriculture advances rose 16.69% YoY, MSME advances increased 15.77% YoY, and corporate advances grew 11.32% YoY. The proportion of retail, agriculture, and MSME (RAM) advances in total advances increased to 58.54%.

Deposits for the bank grew 11.64% YoY, with domestic deposits up 12.80% YoY. CASA deposits rose 4.48% YoY, resulting in a CASA ratio of 37.97% as of 31st December 2025.

On the profitability front, operating profit for 9M-FY26 rose 4% YoY to ₹12,023 crore, while Q3FY26 operating profit increased 13% YoY to ₹4,193 crore. Net profit for 9M-FY26 was ₹7,511 crore, up 14% YoY.

Net interest income (NII) for 9M-FY26 stood at ₹18,442 crore. Non-interest income grew 20% YoY for 9M-FY26 to ₹6,665 crore, and 30% YoY for Q3FY26 to ₹2,279 crore. Net interest margin (NIM) for 9M-FY26 was 2.51% globally and 2.76% domestically, while Q3FY26 NIM improved to 2.57% globally and 2.80% domestically. Return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE) for 9M-FY26 were 0.90% and 14.49%, respectively, rising to 0.96% and 15.34% in Q3FY26.

Asset quality improved, with gross NPA ratio at 2.26%, down 143 basis points YoY, and net NPA at 0.60%, improved by 25 bps YoY. The provision coverage ratio (PCR) increased 112 bps YoY to 93.60%.

Slippage ratio for 9M-FY26 improved 36 bps YoY to 0.64%, while Q3FY26 slippage ratio was 0.16%, up 3 bps YoY. Credit cost for 9M-FY26 improved 30 bps YoY to 0.42%, and for Q3FY26 improved 5 bps YoY to 0.34%. On the capital front, Bank of India’s capital adequacy ratio stood at 17.09% as of December 31, 2025.

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Punjab National Bank(PNB) Q3 Profit rises 13% YoY

State-owned lender Punjab National Bank (PNB) on January 19 reported a 13.13 percent rise in its profit after tax (PAT) to Rs 5,100.15 crore in the third quarter of the current financial year, from Rs 4,508.21 crore in the year-ago period. On a sequential basis, net profit rose 4 percent.

Gross non-performing asset (NPA) ratio of the bank improved to 3.19 percent as on December 31, 2025, from 3.45 percent as on September 30, 2025, and 4.09 percent as on December 31, 2025. Net NPA ratio improved to 0.32 percent in Q3FY26, from 0.36 percent in Q2FY26, and 0.41 percent in Q3FY25.

In absolute terms, gross NPA of the bank stood at Rs 39,314.21 crore in Q3FY26, as compared to Rs 40,343.33 crore in Q2FY26, and Rs 45,413.98 crore in Q3FY25. Net NPA of the bank improved to Rs 3,833.70 crore in Q3FY26, from Rs 4,025.75 crore in Q2FY26, and Rs 4,437.43 crore in Q3FY25.

Provision Coverage Ratio improved by 22 bps on year-on-year basis to 96.99 percent as on December 31, 2025 from 96.77 percent as on December, 31, 2024

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Big Bank Merger Coming? Government Signals Plan to Combine Two Major Banks

The government is allegedly seeking to combine two big banks as part of ongoing financial sector reforms, according to recent rumors that are gathering traction. Although mergers have long been a part of India's banking system, fresh debate has sparked concerns about which banks might be involved, why consolidation is being explored once more, and the potential effects on consumers, workers, and the overall economy.

Is the Government Planning a New Bank Merger?

At present, there is no official confirmation naming specific banks for an immediate merger. However, policymakers and financial regulators have repeatedly indicated that bank consolidation remains part of the long-term reform strategy to strengthen balance sheets, improve efficiency, and reduce systemic risk under the oversight of the Government of India and the Reserve Bank of India.

Merger Objective	Why It Matters
Stronger Capital Base	Improves financial stability
Lower NPAs	Better risk management
Operational Efficiency	Reduced duplication of branches
Global Competitiveness	Larger banks compete internationally
Simplified Oversight	Easier regulation and supervision

Why Bank Mergers Are Being Discussed Again

Previous public-sector bank mergers were aimed at creating fewer but stronger banks. Rising credit demand, digital transformation costs, and the need for robust capital buffers are once again pushing consolidation discussions to the forefront.

Which Banks Could Be Involved

No banks have been officially identified. Historically, mergers have involved public sector banks, not private lenders. Any future merger would likely focus on strategic fit, regional overlap, and financial health, rather than size alone.

What a Merger Would Mean for Customers

For customers, mergers typically bring account number changes, IFSC updates, and system migrations, but deposits and loans remain protected. The government has consistently stated that customer money is safe during such transitions.

Impact on Employees

Bank mergers often raise concerns about job security. In past consolidations, the government emphasized redeployment rather than layoffs, with staff reassigned across branches and departments.

Is This a Done Deal or Still a Proposal?

As of now, this is policy-level discussion, not an approved merger. Any concrete plan would require Cabinet approval, regulatory clearance, and formal announcements, all of which would be made public well in advance.

Key Facts to Know Right Now

• No official bank names confirmed
• Merger discussions are policy-level
• Public sector banks are the likely focus
• Customer deposits remain protected
• Formal approval is still required

While talk of a big bank merger has intensified, it remains under discussion rather than confirmed policy. If implemented, the move would aim to strengthen the banking system rather than disrupt it. Until official announcements are made, customers and employees should treat merger reports as preparatory signals, not final decisions.

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Why 5-Day Banking Is Essential for the Indian Banking Sector?

For the Indian banking industry to increase productivity, staff happiness, and service quality, a five-day banking week must be implemented. Digital banking, regulatory compliance, cybersecurity concerns, and increased customer service responsibilities have all contributed to the complexity of banking operations. Bank workers can get enough rest and recuperation from a regular five-day workweek, which boosts output, improves decision-making, and lowers operational errors. 

Additionally, five-day banking promotes a better work-life balance, which is essential for addressing the stress, exhaustion, and mental health issues that bank employees confront. Employees that are motivated and get enough sleep are more customer-focused, which guarantees better service delivery and grievance resolution. 

The banking sector may become more competitive with other financial and corporate sectors that already follow a five-day work culture as a result of this shift, which can lower attrition and draw in new talent.

 

From an operational standpoint, banks now mostly rely on digital platforms that offer round-the-clock services, like internet banking, mobile banking, ATMs, and UPI. Therefore, cutting back on physical working days won't have a big effect on consumer convenience. 

Rather, it enables banks to concentrate on more effective planning, training, system improvements, and compliance initiatives. 

All things considered, five-day banking helps Indian banks comply with international standards, boosts staff morale, increases institutional effectiveness, and promotes the banking industry's sustainable growth without sacrificing client care.

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UCO Bank Q3 net profit rises 15.8%

UCO Bank announced the financial results for the quarter ended on December 31, 2025 on Saturday, January 17. The lender reported a 15.76% year-on-year increase in net profit for the December quarter to ₹739.51 crore, compared to ₹638.83 crore in the corresponding period a year ago.

The lender’s total income for the December quarter rose to ₹7,521.16 crore, up from ₹7,405.89 crore in the year-ago period, while interest earned rose to ₹6,651.84 crore as against ₹6,219.96 crore, according to the exchange filing.

UCO Bank, headquartered in Kolkata, reported an operating profit increase of 5.96% to ₹1,680.24 crore in October-December, up from ₹1,585.69 crore in the same period last year.

Meanwhile, provisions and contingencies dropped to ₹525.12 crore in the quarter ending December, down from ₹589.51 crore, it stated.

UCO Bank showed progress in asset quality, with gross non-performing assets (NPA) decreasing to 2.41% as of December 31, down from 2.91% last year. The gross NPAs amounted to ₹5,867.25 crore, compared to ₹6,081.55 crore during the same period last year.

Net NPAs also improved, dropping to 0.36% at ₹852.55 crore from 0.63% at ₹1,283.13 crore.

The lender's capital adequacy ratio was 17.43 per cent as of December 31, improving from 16.25 per cent reported in the corresponding period of the previous year.

As of December 31, 2025, UCO Bank had a total of 3,327 domestic branches, along with 2 overseas branches in Hong Kong and Singapore, and one Representative Office in Iran. Approximately 61.25% of domestic branches are located in rural and semi-urban areas.

UCO Bank's operating profit rose by 11.92% to ₹4,856 crore as on December 31 2025, on a Y-o-Y basis, as against ₹4,339 Crore for the same period the previous year. The lender's net profit rose by 9.70% to ₹1967 crore for the period under review, on a Y-o-Y basis, against ₹1793 crore for the nine months ended December 31, 2024.

Net interest income (NII) grew by 9.38% on a year-over-year (Y-o-Y) basis to ₹7,582 crore for the nine months ended on December 31, 2024, as against ₹6,932 crore for the corresponding period previous year.

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IDBI Bank Q3 Net profit at ₹1,935 crore

 

On Saturday, January 17, IDBI Bank Ltd. released its third-quarter earnings. From ₹1,908.3 crore the year before, its net profit rose 1.4% to ₹1,935.5 crore. In the third quarter of last year, the lender's net interest income (NII) was ₹4,228.2 crore, a 24% decrease from ₹4,209.5 crore. 

Net non-performing assets (NPA) of IDBI Bank decreased to ₹425.3 crore from ₹474.2 crore in the preceding quarter.Its net non-performing assets (NPA) margin decreased from 0.21% in the preceding quarter to 0.18%. 

Its gross non-performing assets (NPA) rose to ₹6,281 crore from ₹6,242 crore during the second quarter. The gross non-performing asset (NPA) of the lender decreased sequentially from 2.65% to 2.57%.

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ICICI Bank Q3 net profit falls 4 percent on-year

Despite stable core operating performance and better asset quality, ICICI Bank reported on Saturday a 4% year-over-year fall in standalone net profit for the fiscal third quarter due to a significant increase in provisions. 

For the quarter ending December 31, 2025 (Q3 FY26), the nation's second-largest private sector lender reported a standalone net profit of Rs 11,317.9 crore, up from Rs 11,792.4 crore in the same quarter the previous year. 

Net interest margin was 4.30 percent in Q3 FY26, up from 4.25 percent in the same period last year and 4.30 percent in Q2 FY26, while net interest income (NII) grew 7.7 percent year over year to Rs 21,932 crore from Rs 20,371 crore in Q3 FY25.

Operating expenses rose 13.2 percent year-on-year to Rs 11,944 crore from Rs 10,552 crore. The bank said this included Rs 145 crore of provisions on an estimated basis pursuant to the new Labour Codes. Treasury movements also weighed on the quarter, with the bank reporting a treasury loss of Rs 157 crore, compared with a gain of Rs 371 crore in Q3 FY25.

Core operating profit grew 6.0 percent year-on-year to Rs 17,513 crore in Q3 FY26, reflecting steady growth in net interest income and fee income.

Asset quality improved slightly, with the gross NPA ratio at 1.53 percent as of December 31, 2025, compared with 1.58 percent at September 30, 2025 and 1.96 percent a year earlier. The Gross NPAs fell to Rs 23,758 crore from Rs 27,745 crore a year ago.

The net NPA ratio stood at 0.37 percent at December 31, 2025, versus 0.39 percent at September 30, 2025 and 0.42 percent at December 31, 2024.

Provisions (excluding provision for tax) rose to Rs 2,556 crore in Q3 FY26 from Rs 1,227 crore in Q3 FY25. The bank said this included an additional standard asset provision of Rs 1,283 crore, made pursuant to the Reserve Bank of India’s annual supervisory review, in respect of a portfolio of agricultural priority sector credit facilities where the terms were found not to be fully compliant with regulatory requirements for classification as agricultural priority sector lending.

The domestic loan portfolio grew 11.5 percent year-on-year to Rs 14.31 lakh crore at December 31, 2025. Including profits for the nine months ended December 31, 2025, the bank said total capital adequacy ratio was 17.34 percent and CET-1 ratio was 16.46 percent on a standalone basis at December 31, 2025.

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HDFC Bank Q3 net profit rises 11.5% YoY

Despite some pressure on margins, HDFC Bank announced an 11.5 percent year-over-year increase in standalone net profit for the fiscal third quarter on Saturday. This increase was bolstered by consistent growth in core earnings, good deposit accretion, and stable asset quality. 

For the quarter ending December 31, 2025, the nation's biggest private sector lender reported a profit after tax of Rs 18,654 crore, up from Rs 16,736 crore during the same period the previous year. The core income parameter of HDFC Bank, net interest income (NII), rose 6.4% to Rs 32,620 crore in Q3 FY26 from Rs 30,650 crore in the same quarter last year. During the quarter, the core net interest margin was 3.51 percent on interest-earning assets and 3.35 percent on total assets.

Throughout the period, asset quality did not change. As of December 31, 2025, gross non-performing assets (GNPA) was Rs 35,179 crore, up from Rs 36,019 crore the previous year. 

From 1.42 percent during the same time last year, the gross non-performing asset (NPA) ratio decreased to 1.24 percent. The net NPA ratio decreased to 0.42 percent from 0.46 percent, while net NPAs fell to Rs 11,982 crore from Rs 11,588 crore in the previous year.

The quarter's operating costs came to Rs 18,770 crore. Operating costs were Rs 17,970 crore, up from Rs 17,110 crore during the same period last year, excluding a projected Rs 800 crore impact from employee benefits under the New Labour Code. During the quarter, the bank's core cost-to-income ratio was 39.2%. 

For the quarter, provisions and contingencies were Rs 2,840 crore, a decrease of more than 10% from the same period last year. The release of Rs 1,040 crore in contingent provisions, which were mostly connected to a sizable borrower group fulfilling certain requirements, assisted with this. The December quarter's overall credit cost ratio, excluding this release, was 0.55 percent.

On the balance sheet, HDFC Bank’s total size expanded to Rs 40.89 lakh crore as of December 31, 2025, compared with Rs 37.59 lakh crore a year earlier. End-of-period deposits stood at Rs 28.6 lakh crore, up 11.6 percent from a year earlier. CASA deposits increased 10.1 percent to Rs 9.61 lakh crore, comprising 33.6 percent of total deposits. Time deposits grew 12.3 percent year-on-year to Rs 18.99 lakh crore.

Gross advances as of December 31, 2025 were Rs 28.45 lakh crore, reflecting an 11.9 percent year-on-year increase. Advances under management grew 9.8 percent over the previous year, with retail loans rising 6.9 percent, small and mid-market enterprise loans growing 17.2 percent, and corporate and other wholesale loans increasing 10.3 percent. Overseas advances accounted for 1.7 percent of total advances.

The bank’s capital position remained strong, with the total capital adequacy ratio at 19.9 percent under Basel III norms, well above the regulatory requirement of 11.9 percent. Tier-1 capital adequacy stood at 17.8 percent, while the common equity Tier-1 ratio was 17.4 percent.

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