Dun & Bradstreet India is pleased to release the third edition of its premium publication ‘India’s Top Banks 2009’. India has a well-developed banking system with constituents of various size, ownership patterns, geographic locations, business focuses and thrust areas. While the 27 Public Sector Banks (PSB) account for a major part of the total business, the 22 Private Sector Banks operating in India, are also making significant inroads into market share, hence intensifying the completion in the domestic banking sector. At the same time, some of the 28 foreign banks that have operations in India also play a prominent role in the personal and corporate banking segment, accounting for a major part of the off-balance sheet business growth.

The Indian banking industry has shown strong performance across a wide range of aspects pertaining to growth and profitability between 2002 and 2007. A steadily growing balance sheet, higher pace of credit expansion, rising profitability and productivity comparable to banks in developed markets, lower incidence of non-performing assets and focus on financial inclusion have contributed to making Indian banking vibrant and robust. Despite the current global financial meltdown sector, the Indian banking sector is considered to be among the most stable.

In the background of slowing economic growth and a deepening financial crisis, governments have begun to focus on stimulating domestic demand. In line with domestic requirements, Indian banks have begun to rework their growth strategy and reassess the opportunities available to keep the economy rolling. Indian banks will innovate to exploit new business opportunities, and at the same time ensure continuous evaluation of risks. A prudent mix of innovation and caution will be the way forward for Indian banks.

India’s Top Banks 2009 attempts to collate important aspects of the Indian banking industry, while profiling its leading players. We are sure that this publication will serve as an authoritative and useful ready reference tool for business leaders globally.

India’s Top Banks 2009 will be a valuable publication for understanding the Indian banking sector, as also providing pertinent information on the leading institutions. I hope you enjoy reading this edition and look forward to receiving your suggestions.

Dr Manoj Vaish
President & CEO - India
Dun & Bradstreet