Bullish for Banks: AXISBANK, DCBBANK Top Picks as NIMs Bottom Out

Equirus Securities projects that Net Interest Margins (NIMs) for Indian banks have likely bottomed out, with an expectation of repo rate hikes in the second half of FY27. This positive outlook is driven by improving business momentum across the sector, particularly benefiting private banks.

This is significant for traders as NIM expansion directly impacts bank profitability. A bottoming out of NIMs signals an end to a period of margin compression, suggesting a potential re-rating for the banking sector. The anticipated repo hikes further support this, as they typically allow banks to increase lending rates more than deposit rates, boosting margins.

The news is bullish for the banking sector, especially private banks. Axis Bank (AXISBANK) is highlighted as a top pick among large private banks, while DCB Bank (DCBBANK) and Karur Vysya Bank (KBL) are favored among mid-sized private banks. Other large private players like ICICI Bank (ICICIBANK) and HDFC Bank (HDFCBANK), and even public sector banks like SBI (SBIN), could also see positive sentiment due to the sector-wide improvement in NIMs and business momentum.

Traders should monitor RBI's monetary policy statements for cues on future repo rate movements. Keep an eye on Q1 FY25 earnings reports for early signs of NIM stabilization and credit growth. Also, observe FII/DII flows into banking stocks, as sustained buying could confirm the positive sentiment and drive further upside.

• •Equirus Securities expects repo hikes in H2 FY27, which will be NIM supportive for private banks.
• •Equirus sees reasonable upside across all large private banks, preferring Axis Bank within this pack.
• •Within mid-private banks, Equirus likes Karur Vysya Bank and DCB Bank.
• •The banking sector's Q4 results indicate NIMs have likely bottomed out and business momentum is improving.
• •Risk flag: Unexpected delay or reversal in RBI's repo rate hike cycle