RBI returns Jana Small Finance Bank's application to transition into universal bank
29 Oct 2025, 04:05 PM
The reason for returning the application was due to non-fulfilment of the criteria mentioned in the RBI circular.
Team Head&Tale
Share the story on
Jana Small Finance Bank Ltd has said that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has returned its application to transition into a universal bank.
The reason for returning the application was due to non-fulfilment of the criteria mentioned in the RBI circular in this regard, said Jana Small Finance Bank in a filing to the stock exchanges.
It did not disclose further details.
Earlier in June, Jana Small Finance Bank had formally submitted the application to the central bank seeking approval to transition into a universal bank.
Since receiving its Small Finance Bank license in 2017, Jana Small Finance Bank "has built a robust portfolio in deposits, loans, and financial services tailored to individuals, micro small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and institutions", the bank had said while submitting the application.
The bank's net interest income grew 12.5% to Rs 2,393 crores in FY25 from Rs 2,128 crores in FY24, according to its annual report. Its net profit dropped to Rs 501 crores in FY25 as compared to Rs 670 crores in FY24.
“I enjoy reading The Head and Tale for their coverage on the Fintech landscape. The reporting is incisive and honest, and it demonstrates a sharp understanding of the industry and the issues that concern it. I'd like to extend my best wishes to Arti for her continued success.”
Rahul ChariCo-Founder And CTO, PhonePe
“Well-researched, informative and analysis based reporting makes an interesting read. 'The Head and Tale' news portal has been demonstrating this quite well covering fintech and emerging tech sectors. Their timely updates, exclusive stories and different perspectives on these sectors help me stay informed. Kudos to Arti Singh for pursuing her passion and best wishes to the team.”
Rishi GuptaMD & CEO, Fino Payments Bank
“The Head and Tale stands out for its deep industry knowledge and impressive network of sources. I especially appreciate that the reporting remains independent, rarely resorting to paid puff pieces, making it a publication I can genuinely trust. Having followed Arti’s work for years, I’ve come to rely on The Head and Tale for its unparalleled insight and truly independent coverage. Arti’s long-standing presence in the sector means her reporting is always informed, with access few can match.”
Lizzie ChapmanCo-founder, ZestMoney
“What I really appreciate about The Head and Tale is that it doesn’t just report the news, it interprets it. The stories are well-researched, comprehensive, and bold. Arti brings a fearless lens to reporting, often asking the uncomfortable but necessary questions. She makes you pause, reflect, and rethink what it all means for the payments and fintech ecosystem. It’s rare to find journalism that’s this sharp, timely, and relevant to the work we do every day.”
Mohit BediCo-founder, Kiwi
“I’ve always valued journalism that goes beyond surface-level headlines. The Head and Tale does exactly that - it connects the dots, asks the tough questions, and brings clarity to the shifts shaping our evolving industry. I’ve even encouraged my team members to subscribe, because staying informed through credible, deeply reported stories is as important as building products. For me, The Head and Tale has become part of essential reading.”
Cofounder of IPO-bound leading fintech lending company