Standard Chartered Bank’s Zarin Daruwala expects another rate cut in April policy


Zarin Daruwala, CEO, India and South Asia at Standard Chartered Bank, expects a further rate cut in the RBI monetary policy scheduled for April. Daruwala said, “Our house view is that there will be one more cut in April’s credit policy. Deposit cuts will happen. It’s a function of liquidity. Right now, deposit rates are high because liquidity is tight. When liquidity eases, we will see that play out as well.”

Standard Chartered Bank expects the Indian economy to grow by 6.4% in the last quarter of the current financial year and 6.5% for FY25.

However, Anubhuti Sahay, Head – Eco Research, India at Standard Chartered Bank, remains cautious about global uncertainties, particularly with upcoming developments in the US under Donald Trump.

While there is some clarity on economic trends in the European Union and China, the potential impact of tariff changes on India is still unclear. A clearer picture is expected by April 1, when official announcements will be made.

According to Sahay, if a broad 10% tariff increase is imposed on all goods, India’s GDP could be negatively impacted by 25 to 30 basis points. Additional factors, such as service-related taxes, could push the impact up to 60 basis points. However, Sahay believes the actual effect may be lower if trade agreements are reached.

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Ankur Khurana, Co-Head of Coverage for India & South Asia at Standard Chartered Bank, expects the rupee to reach 88 in the next three months.

Daruwala highlighted the bank’s commitment to gender diversity, with women making up 31% of its workforce. The organisation actively ensures gender-balanced hiring and has implemented various initiatives to support women employees.

To assist working mothers, the bank provides a daycare facility spanning 5,000 square feet, accommodating around 50 children at any given time. Additionally, it offers six months of maternity leave, paternity leave, and flexible working options to ease the transition for employees returning from parental leave.

Standard Chartered has also created support networks such as “Lean In” circles, where women can discuss issues related to mental health and workplace challenges. The bank promotes self-defence training for women to help them stay prepared for unexpected situations. It also encourages male employees to engage in sessions aimed at understanding and appreciating women’s experiences in the workplace.

Through these measures, the bank has fostered an inclusive and supportive environment, making it a workplace that prioritises gender diversity and employee well-being.

Also Read | Women’s share in mutual funds doubles in five years, now at 33% of total assets



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