Emirates NBD remains in the race to acquire IDBI Bank even after announcing a $3 billion deal to purchase a 60% stake in RBL Bank, sources told CNBC-TV18. The Dubai-based lender has not withdrawn from the IDBI Bank acquisition process, the sources said.According to them, IDBI Bank remains an attractive proposition for foreign and domestic players such as Emirates NBD because of its scale, government business, and association with LIC.
The government is looking to finalise the stake sale in IDBI Bank by the end of FY26, the sources added.
Earlier, CNBC-TV18 had reported that Fairfax Financial Holdings, Emirates NBD, Kotak Mahindra Bank, and Oaktree were among the suitors for the bank.Currently, the Government of India holds a 45.48% stake in IDBI Bank, while LIC owns 49.24%. The government plans to divest a combined 60.7% stake — including 30.48% held by the Centre and 30.24% by LIC.
After the transaction, the government is expected to retain about 15%, and LIC around 19%, in the bank.
CNBC-TV18 has reached out to Emirates NBD for comment.
(Edited by : Anshul)
First Published: Nov 13, 2025 2:48 PM IS
