RBI Approves Record ₹2.11 Lakh Crore Dividend Payout to Central Government for 2023-24

Team Finance Saathi

    23/May/2024

Key Points:

  1. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved a ₹2.11 lakh crore dividend payout to the central government for the financial year 2023-24.
  2. This dividend is more than double the amount paid in the previous financial year, reflecting strong economic performance and foreign exchange earnings.
  3. The RBI increased the Contingent Risk Buffer to 6.5% for FY 2023-24, highlighting the robustness and resilience of India's economy.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a significant development that underscores the robust state of India's economy. On May 22, 2024, during the 608th meeting of its Central Board of Directors, chaired by Governor Shaktikanta Das, the RBI approved a record ₹2.11 lakh crore dividend payout to the central government for the financial year 2023-24. This amount is more than double the ₹1.2 trillion transferred in the previous fiscal year, marking a substantial increase and reflecting the strong financial performance of the central bank.

Details of the Decision

The decision to transfer ₹2,10,874 crore as surplus to the Central Government was influenced by several factors. Key among these was the revival of economic growth in FY 2022-23, which allowed the RBI to enhance its financial buffer. The Contingent Risk Buffer (CRB), a reserve set aside to manage economic risks, was increased to 6% in the previous fiscal year and has been further raised to 6.5% for FY 2023-24. This increment signifies the RBI’s confidence in the resilience and robustness of the Indian economy.

Economic Context

The approval of such a large dividend payout comes against the backdrop of a positive economic outlook for India. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has forecasted a 6.8% growth rate for India in the current fiscal year, highlighting the country’s recovery and growth momentum post-pandemic. Analysts had predicted a surplus transfer ranging between ₹75,000 crore to ₹1.2 trillion, buoyed by robust foreign exchange earnings. However, the actual amount has exceeded these expectations, indicating stronger-than-anticipated financial health.

Impact on Financial Markets

Following the announcement, the benchmark 10-year bond yield dropped by four basis points to 7%, reflecting investor confidence in the economy’s stability. This decline in bond yields is a positive sign for the financial markets, suggesting that the increased dividend payout could enhance liquidity and potentially lower borrowing costs for the government.

Review of Economic Scenarios

During the meeting, the RBI’s Board reviewed both global and domestic economic scenarios, assessing potential risks to the economic outlook. The comprehensive review ensures that the RBI remains vigilant and prepared to tackle any adverse economic developments while maintaining a focus on sustaining economic growth.

Broader Implications

The record dividend payout is a testament to the effective management of the country’s financial and economic policies. It provides the central government with additional resources that can be utilized for developmental projects, social welfare schemes, and other priority areas that drive economic growth. The increased CRB also ensures that the RBI has a sufficient cushion to mitigate any unforeseen economic challenges, maintaining financial stability.

Conclusion

The RBI’s decision to approve a ₹2.11 lakh crore dividend payout to the central government is a landmark event, highlighting the strong economic fundamentals of India. This move not only boosts the government's fiscal capacity but also reflects confidence in the sustained growth trajectory of the Indian economy. As the country continues to recover and grow, the RBI’s actions play a crucial role in supporting and sustaining this positive momentum.
 

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