Dear Stakeholders,
Your Directors have the pleasure of presenting the 101st Annual Report of
the Bank together with the Audited Statement of Accounts for the financial year ended
MarcRs. 31, 2025, and the Auditors' Report thereon. The highlights of the operational
performance are as under:
OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE
Hin crore
|
MARCRS. 31, 2025 |
MARCRS. 31, 2024 |
Net Profit |
1,272.37 |
1,306.28 |
Operating Profit |
1,827.04 |
2,163.31 |
Net Interest Income (NII) |
3,310.38 |
3,298.72 |
Gross Income |
10,283.12 |
9,617.42 |
Deposits (A) |
1,04,807.49 |
97,988.22 |
Gross Advances (B) |
77,958.72 |
73,001.66 |
Aggregate Business (Gross) (A)+ (B) |
1,82,766.21 |
1,70,989.88 |
Investments |
24,536.51 |
24,302.05 |
CASA deposits (as a share of total deposits) (%) |
31.75 |
31.94 |
Gross NPA (%) |
3.08 |
3.53 |
Net NPAs (%) |
1.31 |
1.58 |
Provision Coverage Ratio (%) |
81.42 |
79.22 |
Capital Adequacy Ratio (CRAR) (%) |
19.85 |
18.00 |
Return on Assets (%) |
1.05 |
1.19 |
Note: The figures mentioned above are on a standalone basis. The consolidated
financial statements are furnished separately as part of this report.
BUSINESS OVERVIEW
As on MarcRs. 31, 2025, the Aggregate Business (Gross) of the Bank has reached to RS.
1,82,766.21crore with a YoY growth of 6.89%. During FY 25, the Bank has registered net
profit of RS. 1,272.37crore with YoY negative growth of (2.60) %. The deposits and
Gross advances grew by 6.96% and 6.79% YoY respectively. As of MarcRs. 31, 2025, the CD
ratio was 74.38%. Despite of the northward movement of interest rates, the Bank has
maintained the share of CASA at 31.75%. The asset quality has been improved with a 45 bps
and 27 bps reduction, respectively, under Gross NPAs and Net NPAs. As on MarcRs. 31, 2025,
Provision Coverage Ratio (PCR) was 81.42%. However, CRAR improved to an all-time high of
19.85%. Overall, the financial year 2024-25 was yet another year of satisfactory
performance, witnessing further strengthening of the fundamentals of the Bank.
DEPOSITS AND CASA
The total deposits grew by 6.96% during the FY under review, with CASA at 31.75% of
total deposits. The CASA deposits grew by 6.35% YoY.
ADVANCES
The advances grew by 6.79% YoY. The lending profile was well balanced with the share of
retail advance at 50.38% & mid corporate advances at 22.88% and Large corporate
advances at 26.74% of the loan book.
The priority sector advances increased from RS.36,516.93 crore to RS.37,569.19
crore forming 43.51% of applicable Adjusted Net Bank Credit (ANBC) agricultural advances
together with eligible deposits under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF),
increased from RS.14,281 crore to RS.16,614.37 crore, which, constituted
19.24% of ANBC during Q4FY25. The Bank also focuses on lending under various
socio-economic schemes, weaker section schemes, MSMEs etc.
ASSET QUALITY AND PROVISION COVERAGE RATIO (PCR)
The Bank has been focusing on improving the asset quality through better credit
appraisal and effective monitoring, as well as intensified recovery efforts. In terms of
absolute numbers, the GNPAs decreased to RS. 2,402.08 crore as on MarcRs. 31, 2025,
from RS. 2,578.42 crore as on MarcRs. 31,2024. However, the percentage of Gross
NPAs reduced from 3.53% as on MarcRs. 31,2024, to 3.08% as on MarcRs. 31,2025.
The amount of Net NPAs (NNPAs) reduced to RS.1,004.55 crore (1.31%) as of MarcRs.
31,2025, compared to RS.1,129.18 crore (1.58%) as of MarcRs. 31,2024. During the period,
the percentage of NNPAs substantially improved to 1.31% from 1.58% last year. The
Provision Coverage Ratio (PCR) stood at 81.42% on MarcRs. 31,2025.
INVESTMENTS
The total investments increased by 0.96% and the ID ratio stood at 23.41% as on MarcRs.
31,2025, as against 24.80% on MarcRs. 31,2024.
OPERATIONAL METRICS
The gross income of the Bank for the year ended MarcRs. 31,2025, stood at RS. 10,283.12
crore compared to H 9,617.42 crore last year recording a YoY growth of 6.92%.
The total expenditure (excluding provisions and contingencies) increased by 13.44% to H
8,456.08 crore for the year ended MarcRs. 31,2025, as against H 7,454.11 crore for the
last financial year. The cost-to-income ratio increased by 696 bps to 60.11%.
During the FY, Net Interest Income (NII) grew by 0.35% over the previous year. The Net
Interest Margin (NIM) reduced to 3.19% from 3.52% during last year.
The operating profit decreased by 15.54% to RS. 1,827.04 for FY 2024-25 from RS.
2,163.31 crore . The provisions (other than tax) and contingencies for FY 2024-25 were RS.
186.44 crore vis-a-vis H 600.58 Crore for the previous year.
The net profit reached to RS. 1,272.37 crore from RS. 1,306.28 crore during the
previous year, registering a decrease of (2.60)%.
APPROPRIATIONS
The net profit of RS. 1,272.37 crore, along with the sum of RS. 209.78 crore brought
forward from the previous year, aggregating to RS. 1,482.15 crore, has been appropriated
as under:
Appropriation |
Rs. in crore |
| Transfer to Statutory Reserve |
319.00 |
| Transfer to Capital Reserve |
9.63 |
| Transfer to Revenue and Special Reserves |
845.33 |
| Transfer to Investment Fluctuation Reserve |
(89.00) |
| Dividend of 2023-24 paid during the year |
207.69 |
| Balance carried over to Balance Sheet |
189.50 |
DIVIDEND
The Board of Directors have recommended a dividend of RS.5.00/- per share (50%) for the
year ended 31st MarcRs. 2025 (previous year H 5.50/- per share (55%) pursuant
to the financial performance of the bank for FY 2024-25. The dividend payout ratio for the
year works out to 14.84% as against 15.88% for the previous year. The said dividend
declaration is in adherence with the dividend distribution policy of the bank and
applicable regulations of RBI and other statutes. The dividend is subject to approval of
Shareholders at the AGM for the FY 2024-25.
EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS) AND BOOK VALUE
The Earnings Per Share stood at RS. 33.69 (basic) and RS. 33.61 (diluted) for the year
ended MarcRs. 31, 2025. This was RS. 39.84 (basic) and RS. 39.66 (diluted) during the
previous year. The Book Value per share has further improved to RS. 319.77 as on MarcRs.
31, 2025 as against RS. 287.57during the last year.
CAPITAL FUNDS AND CAPITAL ADEQUACY RATIO (CRAR)
The capital funds of the Bank increased from RS. 11,253 crore to RS. 12,219 crore. The
Capital to Risk- Weighted Assets (CRAR) Ratio improved to a high of 19.85% as on MarcRs.
31, 2025, as against the previous year's 18.00%. The Bank has consistently maintained the
CRAR ratio well above the minimum requirement of 11.50%, including the Capital
Conservation Buffer of 2.50% stipulated by the Reserve Bank of India and the internal
policy of the Bank of maintaining the CRAR 1.50% over and above the regulatory
requirement.
EQUITY CAPITAL BASE
As on MarcRs. 31, 2025, the paid-up capital of your Bank stood at RS. 377,93,66,620.00
comprising 37,79,36,662 equity shares of RS. 10/- each.
During the year 6,86,704 equity shares of RS. 10/- each were allotted to option
grantees upon exercise of stock options under KBL ESOS-2018.
CHANGE IN CAPITAL BASE AFTER THE CLOSE OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR
After the close of the Financial Year 43,771 equity shares of RS. 10/- each were
allotted pursuant to the exercise of options vested with grantees under KBL ESOS-2018.
LISTING
The Equity Shares of the Bank continue to remain listed on BSE Limited and the National
Stock Exchange of India Limited.
DEBT INSTRUMENTS & CREDIT RATING
The Bank has issued subordinated debt instruments (i.e., Unsecured Non-Convertible
Subordinated BASEL III Debt Instruments) as a part of Tier-2 Capital on a private
placement basis. These bonds are listed on the debt segment of the National Stock Exchange
of India Limited (NSE). The details of the debt instruments outstanding as on MarcRs.
31,2025, are as under:
Series |
Date of Issue |
Face Value per Bond (?) |
Number of Bonds |
Amount (? crore) |
Tenure from date of issue |
Coupon Rate (% p.a.) |
Credit Rating |
Listing |
ISIN of the Bonds |
VII |
30.03.2022 |
1,00,00,000 |
300 |
300.00 |
120 months |
10.70 |
ICRA 'A+' (Positive) & CARE 'A+'(Stable) |
Listed on NSE-Debt Segment |
INE614B08054 |
Your Bank has paid interest on these debt instruments on time since the issue of
respective debt instruments as per the terms of the issue.
TRANSFORMATION JOURNEY- KBL VIKAAS 3.0
Bank's aspirational transformation journey, KBL-VIKAAS', was launched in the year 2017,
and has successfully completed seven impactful years. Building on this strong foundation,
the initiative has evolved into 'KBL VIKAAS 3.0', reflecting a renewed focus on
innovation, agility, and customer-centricity. The transformation continues to be driven by
the three strategic pillars: Run the Bank, Grow the Bank, and Change the Bank.
In alignment with the Bank's vision to emerge as a 'Digital Bank of the Future',
digital banking continues to be a key enabler under KBL VIKAAS 3.0 During FY 2024-25, the
Bank has accelerated its digital journey with the implementation of various digital
projects as mentioned below.
SL No |
Strategy Mapping |
Project Title |
Summary |
Status |
1 |
Asset Growth Strategy |
KBL Dropline OD |
To support businesses and individuals facing fluctuating
cash flows and unexpected financial needs, the Bank introduced KBL Dropline OD. Dropline
OD is a financial instrument that combines the features of both a term loan and an
Overdraft. It offers borrowers the flexibility of an operative account similar to an OD
limit, with the advantage of a longer tenure, extending up to 120 months. The facility
allows withdrawals up to an agreed limit, with the withdrawal limit gradually reducing
each month, quarter, half-year, or annually from the sanctioned limit. The frequency of
reduction is determined based on the borrower's cash flow. |
Live on 27.08.2024 |
2 |
Asset Growth Strategy |
KBL PEAK (Education Loan) |
Recognizing education as a key driver of economic growth
and personal advancement, the Bank launched a revamped education loan product KBL PEAK.
This offering provides comprehensive financial support to students pursuing higher
education, both in India and abroad. KBL - PEAK features competitive interest rates,
flexible repayment options, and customized loan amounts tailored to individual academic
needs. The loan covers a wide range of expenses including tuition fees, accommodation, and
other related costs, ensuring a holistic approach to financing education and empowering
students to access quality learning opportunities. |
Live on 13.11.2024 |
SL No |
Strategy Mapping |
Project Title |
Summary |
Status |
3 |
Asset Growth Strategy |
Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) |
Bank launched personal loan offerings on the Open Network
for Digital Commerce (ONDC) platform, enabling seamless and secure digital lending for
existing-to-bank (ETB) customers. This initiative allows bank to source loans from apps
like Tata Neu, EasyBuy, PayNearby and paisabazaar. This was done as a part of innovation
engagement and bank will study the value proposition, credit quality and plan future
roadmap. |
Live on 23.06.2024 |
4 |
Digi Bank Strategy |
Credit Line on UPI |
The Bank has introduced a pre-approved shortterm credit
facility through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), allowing eligible customers to make
payments even when their account balance is low. This initiative offers a convenient and
flexible payment option, ensuring uninterrupted transactions and enhancing customer
experience. |
Live on 26.12.2024 |
5 |
Liabilities Strategy |
KBL Non-Callable Deposit |
Non-Callable Fixed Deposit offers higher rate of interest
to customers in exchange for a commitment to keep funds locked in until maturity. Unlike
traditional fixed deposits, early withdrawal is not permitted except under exceptional
circumstances. This product features fixed tenures ranging from 1 to 3 years, guaranteed
returns. This Product encourages financial discipline, making it ideal for long tern
financial planning and securing future financial goals. |
Live on 31.05.2024 |
6 |
Liabilities Strategy |
KBL Wise (Wellness, Investment and Savings for Elderly) |
A product which offers a comprehensive value proposition,
combining traditional banking features with healthcare-focused benefits. Tailor-made to
support the financial security and well-being of senior citizens, KBL WISE stands out as
one of the most thoughtfully designed offerings in the banking industry, helping customers
manage their lifetime savings while also addressing their health and lifestyle needs. |
Live on 14.06.2024 |
7 |
Liabilities Strategy |
Term Deposit Advice |
The Bank has introduced Term Deposit Advice where in
Customer on opening a Term deposit, will be issued 'Term Deposit Advice' (i.e. digital /
physical) copies instead of Term Deposit receipts. These TD advices serve the same purpose
as traditional TDRs. This shift towards TD advice reflects the banking industry's
commitment to ease process and reduce risk to both customers and the bank. Also, as part
of Green Initiative, TD advice is sent through email to customers in order to reduce
carbon footprints, be a digital organization along with bringing in process and people
efficiency. |
Live on 24.06.2024 |
8 |
Liabilities Strategy |
Do it Yourself (DIY) & Assisted Digital Onboarding
Journey (SB Account) |
Digital Onboarding of New to Bank customer through VCIP
was introduced to enhance customer experience. This involves digital KYC documents
verification & leverages live video interaction between a Bank representative and the
customer to verify identity and conduct KYC procedures. This method enhances convenience,
security and compliance by allowing customers to open savings accounts remotely without
visiting a branch. |
Live on 29.07.2024 |
SL No |
Strategy Mapping |
Project Title |
Summary Status |
9 |
Partner Strategy |
Vakrangee (Banking Correspondent Module) |
The Bank partnered with Vakrangee to extend Live on
02.12.2024 banking services through a dedicated Banking Correspondent (BC) module. This
initiative enables Aadhaar-based savings account opening and supports both on-us and
off-us transactions via the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS). It promotes financial
inclusion by offering essential banking services in underserved areas. |
LEVERAGING THROUGH WHOLLY OWNED SUBSIDIARY OF THE BANK:
Wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank "KBL Services Limited" was incorporated
as a non-financial services wholly owned subsidiary of The Karnataka Bank Limited on
21.06.2020. Setting up of the KBL Services Limited was envisioned with an objective of
achieving higher operational efficiency and creating value over the longer run for the
group as a whole. The scope of activities permitted to be carried out by the "KBL
Services Limited" are business sourcing, data entry work, contact center management,
management of alternate banking channels, back-end processing activities, IT projects
& support, digital capabilities and providing sub-staff/housekeeping/ maintenance
staff/attenders to the parent Bank. To begin with, the Company has taken up Business
Sourcing, Data entry work, back-end processing activities and contact center and expects
to widen its service offering to other permitted activities in the upcoming financial
years. There has been no change in the business of the Company during the financial year
ended MarcRs. 31,2025.
RISK MANAGEMENT AND GOVERNANCE
In the normal course of business, the Banks are exposed to various risks, namely,
Credit Risk, Market Risk and Operational Risk, besides other residual risks such as
Liquidity Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Concentration Risk, Strategic Risk, Reputation Risk
etc. With a view to efficiently manage such risks, your Bank has put in place various risk
management systems and practices. In line with the guidelines issued by the Reserve Bank
of India from time to time, your Bank continues to strengthen various risk management
systems that include policies, tools, techniques, systems and other monitoring mechanisms.
Your Bank aims at achieving appropriate trade-off between risks and returns. Risk
management objectives of the Bank broadly cover proper identification, assessment,
measurement, monitoring, controlling, mitigation and reporting of the risks across various
business segments of the Bank. The risk management strategy adopted by your Bank is based
on a clear understanding of the risks and the level of risk appetite, which is dependent
on the willingness of your Bank to take risks in the normal course of business. A Board
level committee, viz., Risk & Capital Management Committee (RCMC) periodically reviews
the risk profile, evaluates the overall risks encountered by the Bank and develops
policies and strategies for its effective management.
The various senior management committees such as Credit Risk Committee (CRC),
Asset-Liability Management Committee (ALCO), Operational Risk Management Committee (ORMC)
etc. operate within the broad policy framework of the Bank to ensure and enhance the risk
control and governance framework within the Bank. The Risk Management Department at Head
Office oversees the overall implementation of various risk management initiatives across
the Bank.
In line with guidelines issued by RBI, your Bank has nominated a Chief Information
Security Officer (CISO), who is responsible for articulating and enforcing the policies
that the Bank use to protect the information assets apart from coordinating security
related issues in implementation of new systems under Information Technology in the Bank.
OFSAA (Oracle Financial Services Analytical Applications): Your Bank has all the
necessary systems and tools in place for ALM, MRM, LRM, FTP and IRRBB. An advanced
application i.e. OFSAA is in the advanced stage for implementation which covers ALM, LRM,
FTP, PFT & IFRS9.
More elaborate discussion on how the Bank manages the key risks associated with its
operations are provided under the Management Discussion and Analysis attached to this
report.
Basel III Capital Regulations - Implementation of Leverage Ratio: To mitigate the
risk of excessive leverage and enhance the financial stability, RBI mandated the minimum
Leverage Ratio (LR) under Basel III Regulations for banks in India. Both the capital
measure and the exposure measure along with the leverage ratio are to be disclosed on a
quarter-end basis. However, banks must meet the minimum leverage ratio requirements at all
times. As on MarcRs. 31, 2025, your Bank had a comfortable leverage ratio of 8.51% as
against the regulatory minimum requirement of 3.50%.
Capital Adequacy & Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP):
Under Pillar 2 of the Basel II Accord, Internal Capital Adequacy and Assessment Process
(ICAAP) was introduced as a measure of the adequacy of a capital resource of the Bank in
relation to its current liabilities and in relation to the risks associated with its
assets.
An appropriate level of capital adequacy ensures that the entity has sufficient capital
to support its activities and that its net-worth is sufficient to absorb adverse changes
in the value of its assets without becoming insolvent. An assessment of the capital
requirement of the Bank is carried out through comprehensive projections of future
business that takes cognizance of the strategic intent of the Bank, profitability of
particular business and opportunities for growth. The proper mapping of credit,
operational and market risks to this projected business growth enables assignment of
capital that not only adequately covers the minimum regulatory capital requirements but
also provides headroom for growth. The calibration of risk to business is enabled by a
strong risk culture in the Bank aided by an effective, technology-based risk management
system.
The Disclosure under Pillar III of Basel III accord has been annexed to this report as
in Annexure-I.
In compliance with Basel guidelines, the Bank has put in place a policy document for
Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP) to evaluate its capital adequacy
requirements. Stress testing framework for various stress scenarios is also put in place
for a better understanding of the likely impact of adverse market movements/events on the
capital and earnings. The results of the ICAAP and stress testing are reviewed
periodically to assess the capital requirement for the projected business growth, keeping
in view the risk appetite and risk profile of the Bank. A Board level Risk & Capital
Management Committee (RCMC) reviews the risk appetite, risk profile, business projections
as well as capital assessments of your Bank at periodic intervals.
SEGMENT REPORTING Business Segment-
For the purpose of segment reporting in terms of AS 17 of the Companies (Accounting
Standards) Rules 2021 and as prescribed in the RBI guidelines, the business of the Bank
has been classified into 4 segments i.e. (a) Treasury operations (b) Corporate/Wholesale
Banking (c) Retail Banking (d) Other Banking Operations.
Geographical Segment-
Further as per the RBI circular DOR.AUT.REC.12/22.01.001/2022-23 dated April 07, 2022,
on establishment of Digital Banking Unit (DBU), 'Digital Banking' has been identified as a
Sub-segment under Retail Banking. Since the Bank does not have any overseas branch,
reporting under geographic segment does not arise. The segment assets have been identified
and segment liabilities have been allocated on the basis of segment assets.
H in crore
|
|
|
|
Standalone Segment Results |
|
BUSINESS SEGMENTS |
TREASURY |
CORPORATE/ WHOLESALE BANKING |
|
RETAIL BANKING |
|
OTHER BANKING OPERATIONS |
TOTAL |
Particulars |
Mar'25 |
Mar'24 |
Mar'25 |
Mar'24 |
Mar'25 |
Mar'24 |
Mar'25 |
Mar'24 |
Mar'25 |
Mar'24 |
| DBU |
Others |
DBU |
Others |
Revenue |
1645.64 |
1652.13 |
3516.44 |
3450.37 |
0.54 |
4699.22 |
0.19 |
4244.25 |
298.65 |
248.77 |
10160.49 |
9595.71 |
Unallocated Income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
122.63 |
21.71 |
Total Income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10283.12 |
9617.42 |
Result |
157.05 |
164.79 |
615.44 |
977.96 |
-0.50 |
959.37 |
-0.47 |
1046.40 |
58.10 |
24.73 |
1789.46 |
2213.41 |
Unallocated expenses (including provisions & contingencies) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
-148.86 |
-650.68 |
Profit before tax |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1640.60 |
1562.73 |
Income taxes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
368.23 |
256.45 |
Extraordinary/ Exceptional Profit / Loss |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Profit |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1272.37 |
1306.28 |
Other Information |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
- |
- |
Segment Assets |
32881.72 |
32708.88 |
38037.67 |
38324.06 |
13.92 |
46608.80 |
8.25 |
41605.74 |
29.57 |
40.22 |
117571.68 |
112687.15 |
Unallocated Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3390.10 |
3397.42 |
Total Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
120961.78 |
116084.57 |
Segment Liabilities |
29632.27 |
29483.85 |
34234.15 |
34886.66 |
13.99 |
41907.77 |
8.72 3 |
57740.55 |
26.64 |
36.24 |
105814.82 |
102156.02 |
Unallocated liabilities |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
- |
|
|
- |
- |
3061.64 3080.05 |
|
Total Liabilities |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
- |
|
|
- |
- |
108876.46 105236.07 |
|
Capital employed |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
- |
|
|
- |
- |
12085.32 10848.50 |
|
The details about aforesaid business segments are discussed in Management Discussion
and Analysis attached to this report. Banking Outlets and Alternate Delivery Channels
(ADCs):
As on 31st MarcRs. 2025, your Bank had 2468 service outlets including 952
branches, one extension counter, 837 ATMs and 679 recyclers with a presence across 22
States and 2 Union Territories. Apart from the above, the Bank also has one Data Centre
with a Disaster Recovery Centre and Near Line Site (NLS), two Service branches, five
Currency Chests, two Central Processing Centers, one Digital Centre of Excellence,
Thirteen Asset Recovery Management Branches and 5 Retail Loan Processing and Sanction
Centre (RLPSC), one Central Loan Processing and Sanctioning Centre for Sanctioning of
retail loans (CLPSC)and 2 Retail Assets Centre (RAC). During the financial year under
review, your Bank has opened Thirty One new branches.
More details are discussed in Management Discussion and Analysis attached to this
report.
Government Business:
Pursuant to the deregulation of the policy by the Central Government and Reserve Bank
of India (RBI), the eligible scheduled private sector banks have been permitted to act as
agency banks of RBI for conduct of government business. Based on the evaluation and
fulfillment of eligibility criteria, your Bank has been appointed by RBI as Agency Bank
vide Lr.DGBA.GBD.No. S363/42.01.033/2021-22 dated 20/07/2021 followed by execution of
Agreement between RBI and your bank on July 27, 2021. With this, your Bank can now
undertake Revenue Receipts and Payments on behalf of the Central/State Governments,
Pension Payments and collection of Stamp Duty charges and any other item of work
specifically approved by the user department concerned and concurred by RBI.
With pan-India presence, driven by strong and robust technology and digital platforms,
your bank is confident of being the preferred choice for the Central and State Governments
in providing the best possible financial solutions in the most seamless manner. The
handling of government business augurs well for your bank as it helps in facilitating the
customers in tax payments thus enhancing relationship stickiness and as a source of
revenue through eligible agency business commission.
Your Bank has made active progress and started collecting statutory tax payments such
as Customs Duty, Goods & Service Taxes (GST) on behalf of Central Board of Indirect
Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and Direct Tax (Income Tax/Advance Tax) on behalf of Central
Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). The specialized schemes are formulated to on board
Government Department/Bodies/ Corporation/ etc. accounts.
Your Bank has entered into an agreement with the Department of Treasury (DoT),
Government of Karnataka for facilitating payments to various State Government departments
through Khajane II, the Integrated Financial Management System (IFMS) of the Government of
Karnataka. Through this integration, customers will be able to seamlessly remit various
revenue and tax payments directly to the respective government departments using Bank's
digital and branch banking channels.
Your Bank has commenced accepting applications from the public for Capital Gain Tax
Exemption Bonds issued under Section 54EC of the Income Tax Act, 1961. These 54EC Capital
Gain Bonds are specialized financial instruments issued by Government-backed entities and
Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), which allow investors to avail exemption from long-term
capital gains tax arising from the sale of immovable property, subject to applicable
provisions and conditions of the Income Tax Act. Currently, we are accepting applications
for bonds issued by the following institutions: Power Finance Corporation Limited (PFC),
REC Limited (formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited), Indian Railway Finance
Corporation Limited (IRFC). This initiative not only strengthens our Bank's engagement
with various Government departments and PSUs but also enhances our portfolio of
value-added services aimed at meeting the diverse financial needs of our customers.
Your Bank has entered into an agreement with the Employees' Provident Fund Organization
(EPFO), effective 1st April 2025, for the collection of EPFO-related payments
on behalf of the organization. Under this arrangement, Your Bank will facilitate the
collection of: Provident Fund contributions, Dues and damages, Remittances and payments,
Applicable charges and fees. This facility will
be extended to customers who are registered members of EPFO, enabling them to
conveniently make these payments through Internet Banking platform in due course. This
partnership further strengthens your Bank's role in facilitating statutory collections and
significantly enhances digital service capabilities for both institutional and individual
customers.
Your bank has made active progress in completing the administrative and technical
procedures with few of the agencies. Your bank is well positioned to make foray into
strategically important government projects/mandates that helps in expansion of liability
business skewed towards low-cost deposits and open new avenues of fee income contributing
to the bottom-line.
Third Party Products
With an aim to provide diversified financial products & services and to maximize
value-added services to the customers, your Bank provides a bouquet of Third-Party
Products, which include Life Insurance, General Insurance, Health Insurance, Mutual Funds,
Demat Account, Trading Account, Co-branded Credit Cards, PoS Network, KBL FASTag, NPS,
SGB, APY, etc. A summary of the major third-party products is provided in Management
Discussion and Analysis attached to this report.
Customer Service:
Your Bank is consistently focused on setting new benchmarks in customer service to
enhance its competitiveness. This involves designing an innovative and cost-effective
mechanism to deliver banking services efficiently. The Bank is actively engaged in
establishing systems and procedures for providing quality services to customers, along
with an effective grievance redressal mechanism, including an Internal Ombudsman (IO), in
line with the guidelines issued by the RBI and IBA from time to time.
Additionally, the Bank offers doorstep banking services to senior citizens above 70
years of age, as well as to differently abled or infirm individuals, including the
visually impaired, at all metro branches. These services are also provided on a
"best-effort" basis at all other branches of the Bank.
Credit Monitoring Excellence:
In order to have an effective post sanction monitoring and collection mechanism, an
exclusive Credit Monitoring Department (CrMD) was set up at Head Office. Contact Centre
was setup for follow-up of stress accounts during initial days of stress. Regional
Monitoring and Collection Centre (RMCC) consisting of Regional Retail Collection Team
(RRCT) and Regional Corporate Collection Team (RCCT) are set-up at all the Regional
offices for follow up /initiate time bound/DPD-wise actions for collection of dues in
respect of all loan accounts. A dedicated Credit Monitoring Team (CrMT) is also
functioning under RMCCs to undertake post-sanction monitoring of loan accounts of
respective Regions. In addition to this, calls are made to borrowers directly from CrMD in
respect of big-ticket loans. Further, during the visit of HO-executives to RO/ Branches,
borrower visits are also undertaken for regularization of the accounts. A separate wing at
HO under Legal & Recovery Dept. is created for collection of dues under Standard
Retail advances.
With a view to improve the efficiency in monitoring & follow up activities, Bank
has implemented Behavioral, EWS & call prioritization modules to identify the loan
accounts having threat to recover the dues in future dates and to classify the account
based on the risk category of the borrowers. Various collection modes, like sending SMS,
emails, calling & customer visits etc. are prioritized. Web based collection tool
"KBL-Kollect+" is also finetuned for undertaking prioritized collection
activity.
The Bank has been making its best efforts in bringing down overall SMA (SMA 0, 1,2)
under performing advances and the result is clearly visible. The stress in Restructured
advances is also showing declining trend on account of improved monitoring and collection
efficiency. Auto Sweep system for auto collection of EMI / Installment/Interest of loans
from operating accounts of borrowers, enabled E-Connect solution for making payment to the
loan accounts through UPI payment options, auto-capturing of Early Warning Signals etc.,
are put in place.
The Regular Asset Monitoring Cell at CrMD is monitoring the diversion of funds in OD
accounts through offsite surveillance. Drawing Power updation activity at CrMD is
approving DP in respect of OD accounts having sanctioned limit of RS. 10.00 crore
& above under maker checker concept.
The Restructured Advances Monitoring Cell and Consortium & Multiple Banking
Arrangement Cell are formed at CrMD for monitoring of restructured accounts and loan
accounts under Consortium & Multiple Banking Arrangement respectively. A system of
auto submission of Exchange of Information (EOI) is also introduced for prompt submission
of EOI to member banks, as a part of regulatory compliance.
Quality Assurance Cell is formed at CrMD for purification of MIS data in respect of
loan accounts. Newly opened loan accounts are being checked on an ongoing basis for proper
MIS classification. While extending agri gold loans of above RS. 2 lakh, QAC checks
for obtention of RTC/any other document as a proof of owning agriculture land.
Digital Initiatives undertaken by the Department during the FY 2024-25
1. Digitalization of valuation process in respect of Agricultural Properties.
2. Online Gold Auction Process.
SUPPORT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS Information Technology:
The Bank has Robust Core Banking System (CBS) since year 2000 and all its branches and
offices are under CBS network. Alternate Delivery channels viz. ATM, Internet Banking,
Mobile Banking, UPI, PoS have been integrated with the Core Banking System.
The Disaster Recovery [DR] arrangement also exists to ensure business continuity in the
event of primary site failure for all business-critical applications (CBS, ATM, Internet
Banking, Mobile banking, UPI). This arrangement is strengthened by implementing three-way
data replication process aimed at maintaining zero data loss. The critical applications
like CBS, ATM, Internet Banking and Mobile Banking are part of this arrangement. Primary
Data Centre of the Bank hosted in Tier 4 Data Centre and DR Data Centre hosted in Tier-3
Data Centre.
The IT infrastructure of the Bank is headed by Chief Information Officer (CIO) and
supported by other executives of IT Dept. Your Bank will continue to take note of
technological revolutions and take appropriate decision at the right time to provide
premier banking services and also continue to be a tech-savvy Bank aiming for Digital Bank
of Future.
The Bank is also extending facilities like Funds Transfer through electronic means
[NG-RTGS, NEFT, IMPS, UPI, ECS, NECS etc.], Speed Clearing, CTS, Financial Inclusion, IVR
and other technology enabled services and products.
Last year, the strategy was to build resilience , governance and transparency across
the Technology Landscape for the bank. These included implementation of Data Domain
Architecture , enhancing customer experience by building high availability for critical
mobile &core banking applications and execution of technology Enterprise Technology
Service Management for real time Technology Governance. The bank also won prestigious IBA
Technology Awards under six categories that validated the technology roadmap strategy.
Bank will be building on the base framework and would be sharpening its focus on
Hollowing the Core Strategy , Scaling the Enterprise Architecture by it API 2.0 initiative
and Application Consolidation by Technology re-engineering
Analytical Centre of Excellence (ACoE):
Analytical Centre of Excellence (ACoE) accelerated the Bank's data-driven
transformation by embedding advanced analytics, AI/ML and BI tools across key business
lines to enhance decision-making and operational agility. Unified data infrastructure
& integrated CRM systems have elevated service delivery and customer insights. The
foundation systems set up during the previous year were put to utilization, which led to:
Growing Business with Data-Driven Insights: -
By leveraging advanced analytics, AI/ML, Analytical Center of Excellence (ACoE), is
targeting business growth across CASA, Term Deposits, Loans & TPP while reducing
stress through Collections vertical. 40+ use cases comprising of predictive, strategic and
descriptive analytics have been developed & deployed to identify and target
high-propensity customers. Modern, robust cloud-based infrastructure that ensures
uninterrupted data availability and fast processing, driving generation of quality leads
is put in place. Targeted campaigns are deployed across multiple channels - Branches,
Digital modes and contact centers, where detailed customer insights on demographics,
banking behavior and product usage are used to ensure effective outreach. This process
enhances customer engagement, builds stronger relationships and improves conversion
outcomes across key segments.
Proactive Customer Outreach and Engagement: -
Bank's contact center plays a critical role in executing these initiatives. Business
teams actively engage with customers and onboard them to the appropriate products based on
their needs. Simple and customer-focused methods are followed so that every outreach is
meaningful and yields positive results. Campaigns such as dormant account reactivation
initiative have successfully re-engaged customers and revived business relationships. All
campaigns deployed by the Bank have been well received by the business teams, leading to
robust engagement and promising contact / convert rates.
Empowering Teams & Boosting Operational Efficiency: -
CRM adoption among frontline staff has significantly improved, empowering them with
scheduling tools, activity reminders and comprehensive customer insights via Customer 360
view. Real-time dashboards to monitor performance, gain actionable insights and drive
continuous improvements in operational efficiency are consumed by the top management.
Meanwhile, the in-house analytics team consistently upgrades their skills in data science,
data engineering and cloud security through ongoing training programs. This commitment has
reduced the reliance on external resources while delivering innovative solutions to the
business.
Human Resources (ISO-9001:2015 certified):
As on MarcRs. 31, 2025, Bank had 8750 employees of which, 2778 are women employees
constituting around 31.75% of the total strength. Your Bank has put in place an
institutional mechanism for the protection of women employees at the workplace and adopted
a policy pursuant to Section 22 of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace
(Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal)
Act, 2013, providing for the protection of women employees against the sexual
harassment of women at the workplace and redressal of such complaints. At the start of the
fiscal year, no complaints were pending. During the year, three complaints were received,
of which two were upheld.
Internal Complaints Committees [Information Under the Sexual Harassment of Women at
Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013]
The Bank had constituted Internal Complaints Committee, as per letter and spirit
contained in the provisions of "The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace
(Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013", to prevent and redress the
complaints relating to sexual harassment and to organize workshops/ awareness programs to
empower women employees while handling cases relating to sexual harassment. The data with
regard to the redressal of complaints by the Internal Complaints Committee are as follows:
Particulars |
No. of cases |
No. of complaints received for the year FY- 2024-25 |
03 |
No. of complaints disposed of during FY-2024-25 |
03 |
No. of cases pending for more than 90 days |
Nil |
Compliance with respect to the provisions of Maternity Benefit Act,1961
The Bank is in compliance with the provisions of Maternity Benefit Act,1961. More
details are available in the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report of the Bank
which is part of the Annual Report of the Bank and is also available on the Bank's
website.
Risk Based Supervision (RBS)
In view of the growing complexities in the processes, product offerings and systems and
procedures in the Indian banking sector, pursuant to the recommendation of the High-Level
Steering Committee, the Reserve Bank of India has shifted its supervisory stance to a
risk-based approach called the Supervisory Program for Assessment of Risk and Capital
(SPARC) which is focusing on evaluating both present and future risks, identifying
incipient problems and facilitating prompt intervention / early corrective action etc.
Your Bank has been included under the same and migrated to Risk Based Supervision since
MarcRs. 31,2015. A plan of action for complying with various findings in RBS communicated
to the Bank in the Risk Assessment Report is also ensured.
Compliance Function
Your Bank is effectively addressing Compliance Risk through the Compliance function.
The compliance function is one of the key elements in the Corporate Governance structure
of the Bank along with internal control and risk management process. The Bank has set up a
robust Compliance Department with sufficient independence to promote a healthy compliance
culture. The Bank ensures strict observance of all statutory provisions, guidelines from
RBI and other Regulators, standards and codes, the internal policies, and fair practices
of the Bank.
The compliance function includes interpretation/dissemination of regulatory and
statutory guidelines and ensures that controls and procedures capture the appropriate
information to the Senior Management in their risk management function. The risk-based
compliance programme of the Bank, under the supervision of the Chief Compliance Officer,
ensures appropriate coverage across businesses, besides verifying the level of compliance
through 'Compliance Testing' of branches/business units. The Bank carries out an annual
compliance risk assessment to identify and assess its significant compliance risks and
take steps to manage the risks effectively. Further, the tone from the Top management
continuously emphasizes the significance of compliance to usher in perceptible
improvements in the overall compliance culture of the Bank.
Vigil Mechanism
The Bank has implemented the Protected Disclosure Policy (Whistle Blower Policy) since
the year 2007. It is intended to promote participation of employees at all levels and
detection of corruption, misuse of office, criminal offences, suspected/ actual fraud,
failure to comply with the rules and regulations prescribed by the Bank and any
events/acts detrimental to the interest of the Bank, depositors and the public resulting
in financial loss/operational risk, loss of reputation etc. Further, the mechanism adopted
by the Bank encourages Whistle Blower to report genuine concerns or grievances and
provides for adequate safeguards against victimization of Whistle Blower who avails such
mechanism and also provides for direct access to the Chief of Internal Vigilance (CIV).
The detailed Policy on Whistle Blower hosted on Bank's website and available at the link: https://karnatakabank.com/investors/policies-codes.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives of the Bank are designed to make a
positive impact on a wide range of areas of social life like healthcare, education,
livelihood enhancement, empowering women/socially and economically disadvantaged,
environmental sustainability/ green initiatives, protection of heritage/ culture, rural
development, Swachh Bharat etc., aimed at promoting the overall development of the
society. Further, to minimize the urban-rural divide, your Bank has been strengthening
its rural orientation through initiatives aimed at imparting financial literacy and
extending banking services to the people in rural unbanked areas, fairly and
transparently, at an affordable cost.
Further, pursuant to Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with Companies
(Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014, the Board has constituted 'Corporate
Social Responsibility (CSR) Committee' of the Board and has also put in place a Policy on
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR Policy) to undertake projects/programmes in pursuance
of the said Policy. Under CSR activities, The Bank has so far funded 2247 projects with a
total financial outlay of RS. 117.29 crore, and these projects have exhibited a
welcome positive impact on society.
Pursuant to Rule 8 of the Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules,
2014, the contents of the CSR Policy, along with the report on amounts spent on various
projects/ programmes during FY2024-25, are detailed in Annexure - II to this
report. Further, in terms of Rule 4(5) of the CSR rules, certification from the Chief
Financial Officer has been obtained for the CSR spending during FY 2024-25.
Financial Inclusion:
Through the Financial Inclusion Plan, your Bank aims at 'connecting people' with the
Bank and not just opening accounts. This includes meeting the small credit needs of the
rural public, giving them access to the payments system, providing remittance facilities,
life insurance and health insurance etc. Your Bank has 442 branches, apart from 35 Ultra
Small Branches, located in the rural and semi-urban areas and offers banking facilities to
the rural clientele. Our rural branches are also acting as Financial Literacy Centers
(FLCs) and imparting banking literacy among the rural populace. In accordance with Prime
Minister's Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), the Bank has implemented the revised Strategy and
Guidelines for Financial Inclusion activities. Your Bank is actively participating in the
Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Programme of Govt. of India to transfer the benefits of
various Schemes / LPG subsidies directly to the beneficiaries' Aadhaar-enabled bank
accounts.
As part of the Financial Inclusion plan, the Bank has been offering the following
services:
1. Business Correspondent (BC) services:
M/s Sub-K Impact Solutions Limited: -
The Bank has tied up with Sub-K Impact Solutions Limited to provide the BC services,
and as on MarcRs. 31,2025, 153 BC Agents are covering allocated villages in the states of
Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
M/s Vakrangee Limited:-
Bank associated with M/s Vakrangee Limited as Corporate BCs since July 2024 to tap
assets and liabilities business across India under BC model. As on 31.03.2025, 21 BC
agents are onboarded who carrying eKYC based account opening and AEPS transaction.
M/s Digivriddhi (DGV): -
The Bank has engaged with M/s DGV as corporate BCs since January 2024 to tap milk
farmers business across Karnataka states. As on March, 2025, they have been onboarded by
Six Dairy Co-operative Societies (VDCS) as sub-BC agents. The bank is expecting good
accretion business in future.
Aadhar Enabled Payment System (AEPS): The Bank has introduced AEPS transaction services
offered by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) at all Business Correspondent
(BC) locations of the Bank, and with this, the customers of the Bank having an
Aadhar-enabled SB account can transact at the BC point.
2. Financial Literacy and Credit Counseling Centers (FLCs): The Bank is running 5 FLCs
at B.C Road - Bantwal, Hangal, Kundagol, Tiptur and Alur (Karnataka). During FY2024, 5
FLCCs have conducted 1,031 Financial Literacy campaigns in which 77,575 participants took
part. In adherence to RBI guidelines, all the rural branches of your Bank are also
conducting financial literacy Camps.
3. Social Security Schemes: All the branches of your Bank are actively involved in
providing three Social Security Schemes-Prime Minister Jeevan Jyothi Bima Yojana (PMJJBY),
Prime Minister Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) and Atal Pension Yojana (APY) schemes to
customers across the country.
4. Prime Minister Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY): All the branches across the country are
opening accounts under PMJDY and are issuing RuPay Debit Cards.
5. The Bank is one of the trustees of Karnataka Farmers Resource Center (KFRC),
Bagalkot, established to impart training and act as a resource center for farmers under
the umbrella of SLBC Karnataka. The Bank has contributed H 50.00 lakhs towards the
capital expenditure/corpus of KFRC.
6. In line with the Pradhan Mantri Street Vendor's Atmanirbhar Scheme, The Bank has
rolled out KBL- PM - SVANidhi scheme providing working capital loans up to H 50,000/-
to the street vendors to support their businesses.
AWARDS AND ACCOLADES:
Your Bank has bagged the following awards during the financial year under review in
recognition of its achievements:
1) The Bank has bagged prestigious awards from Infosys Finacle Innovation Awards 2024,
i.e., 'Gold' under 'Business Model Innovation' - (Enhancing Co Lending Platform).
2) The Bank has bagged "APY Ultimate Champions Cup" for FY 2023-24 under
Private Banks Category from PFRDA under the Atal Pension Yojana during the Annual
Felicitation Program held at New Delhi on 21.06.2024.
3) The Bank has been awarded WINNER under the category Best Innovation &
Partnership Initiatives under Small Banks Category by ASSOCHAM in ASSOCHAM's 19th
Annual Summit and Awards on Banking and Financial Sector Lending Companies. (17/10/24).
4) The Bank has bagged the 'Social Leadership of the Year Award' at the 15th
Series Chanakya Awards 2024, conferred by the Public Relations Council of India (PRCI).
(08/11/24).
5) The Bank was declared as the Winner of the SamvAAD 3i (Innovation, Impact,
Implementation) competition from Sahamati under "Best entry in the financial
inclusion category" for leveraging Account Aggregator in the ONDC journey. (19/11/24)
6) The Bank has been awarded Winner at ET BFSI EXCELLER Awards 2024 for the ACoE
initiative to Leverage Data for Banks' Growth through data-driven decision-making across
the Customer lifecycle. (28/11/24).
7) The Bank has bagged a record number of 6 Awards in the I BA 20th Annual
Banking Technology Conference, Expo and Citations- 2023-2024 event held on 24.01.2025.
This is one of the highest numbers of Awards won (categories below) by any Bank in recent
years.
a) Best Tech. Talent & Organization: Runner Award
b) Best IT Risk Management: Runner Award
c) Best Technology Bank: Runner Award
d) Best Fintech & DPI Adoption: Runner Award
e) Best Digital Sales, Payments & Engagement: Special Mention Award
f) Best AI &ML Adoption: Special Mention Award.
IMPLEMENTATION OF IND AS:
In order to implement Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS), the Bank has set up a
Steering Committee headed by the Managing Director and a sub-committee called IFRS Working
Group having members across cross-functional business verticals, to work towards
effectively implementation of Ind AS in the Bank. Bank has been submitting the Proforma
Ind AS financials to RBI every half year as per the RBI guidelines. Also, as a prudent
measure, the Bank is preparing Proforma Ind AS financials on a quarterly basis and the
estimated impact along with the latest update on the Ind AS implementation in the Bank is
placed to the Audit Committee of the Board. Towards effective implementation of the
Standards, Bank has also endeavoured on onboarding - Oracle Financial Services Analytical
Application (OFSAA) which includes IFRS-9 Module to compute Effective Interest Rate (EIR)
and Expected Loan Loss Provisioning (ECL) through the Core Banking System.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), vide its communication Ref:
DBR.BP.BC.No.29/21.07.001/2018-19 dated 22nd March, 2019 has deferred
implementation of Ind AS for all Scheduled Commercial Banks till further notice.
DIVIDEND DISTRIBUTION POLICY
Your Bank has adopted a Policy on the Distribution of Dividend to the shareholders
pursuant to the Regulation 43A of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure
Requirements) Regulations, 2015. The Gist of the Dividend Distribution Policy is as under:
Being a Banking entity, Dividend Distribution is guided by the RBI Circular
DBOD.No.BP.BC.8821.02.67/2004-05 dated May 5, 2005, with regard to eligibility criteria
for distribution of dividend.
Factors considered for a recommendation of dividend includes both internal
factors such as financial performance, dividend payout trends, tax implications, and
corporate actions and external factors such as shareholders' expectations, macro
environment etc.
Factors considered for determining the quantum of dividend include financial
performance, capital fund requirements to support future business growth, having regard to
the dividend payout ratio prescribed under the aforesaid RBI Guidelines etc.
The Dividend Distribution Policy of the Bank is available on website of the Bank at
https://karnatakabank.com/investors/policies-codes
ANNUAL RETURN
Pursuant to Section 92(3) of the Companies Act, 2013, read with Rule 12 of the
Companies (Management and Administration) Rules, 2014, a copy of the Annual Return of the
bank for FY2025 prepared in accordance with Section 92(1) of the Act would be placed on
the website of the bank https://karnatakabank.com/investors/ after the Annual General
Meeting.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In accordance with the provisions of Section 129(3) of the Companies Act, 2013 read
with Rule 8 of Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, the Bank has prepared Consolidated
Financial Statement including its subsidiary - KBL Services Limited and pursuant to the
provisions of Accounting Standard ('AS') 21, the Consolidated Financial Statements
notified under Section 133 of the Companies Act, 2013, read together with Rule 7 of the
Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014, the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bank along
with its subsidiary for the financial year ended MarcRs. 31, 2025 forms part of the Annual
Report. The financial position and performance of the subsidiary are given in Form
AOC-1 attached to this Report as Annexure-III.
In accordance with the third proviso to Section 136(1) of the Companies Act, 2013, the
Annual Report of the Bank, containing therein its Standalone and Consolidated Financial
Statements has been hosted on the website, https://karnatakabank.com. Further, as per the
fourth proviso to the said Section, the Audited Annual Accounts of the said subsidiary
Company of the Bank, considered as part of the Consolidated Financial Statements have also
been hosted on the website of the Bank: https://karnatakabank.com. The documents/details
available on the website of the Bank: https://karnatakabank.com will also be available for
inspection by any Member at its Registered Office.
INVESTOR RELATION CELL
To maintain a regular connect with the investors, your Bank has a dedicated Investor
Relation Cell at the Registered Office. Besides redressing the grievances, if any, from
the investors, Cell proactively disseminates corporate information on a voluntary basis to
the shareholders through email (wherever made available) about financial results, major
events and coverage about the Bank in the media etc.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Your Bank is committed to adopt the best practice of corporate governance to protect
the interests of all the stakeholders of the Bank, viz. shareholders, depositors and other
customers, employees and society in general and maintain transparency at all levels. A
detailed report on corporate governance practices is given in Annexure-IV to this
report.
Further, pursuant to Regulation 34(3) of SEBI Listing Regulations read with Part E of
Schedule V of the Listing Regulations, a certificate from SVJS & Associates,
Bengaluru, Practicing Company Secretaries certifying compliance with various provisions of
the Corporate Governance is annexed to this Report as Annexure-V.
The Bank has received a certificate from SVJS & Associates, Bengaluru, Practicing
Company Secretaries, pursuant to clause 10(i) of Part C under Schedule V of SEBI Listing
Regulations that none of the Directors on the Board of the Bank have been debarred or
disqualified from being appointed or continuing as Directors of companies by the
Securities and Exchange Board of India or the Ministry of Corporate Affairs or any such
statutory authority and same is attached as Annexure-VI to this report.
EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTIONS (ESOP)
The shareholders of the Bank, on MarcRs. 30, 2023, have approved 'KBL Employee Stock
Option Scheme-2023' (ESOS-2023) with a total of 15,00,000 stock options available for
grant. During the reporting year, the details of the grant of options under the scheme
ESOS 2023 are as follows.
The option is granted as part of the variable pay package:
Sl. No |
Plan Name |
Name of the Employee |
Designation |
Grant Date |
Options Granted |
1 |
Series - IV |
Giridhar R |
Head-Wholesale & Mid Corporate Banking |
07-Jun-24 |
1,491 |
2 |
Series - IV |
Ramachandra K Gurumurthy |
Head-Treasury |
07-Jun-24 |
15,253 |
3 |
Series - IV |
Ramaswamy Subramanian |
Chief Product Officer |
07-Jun-24 |
7,005 |
4 |
Series - IV |
Venkat Krishnan Veeramoni |
CIO & CTO |
07-Jun-24 |
4,670 |
5 |
Series - V |
Pankaj Gupta |
CDO & Head-Digital Marketing |
30-Jul-24 |
6,449 |
|
Grand Total |
|
|
|
34,868 |
Other statutory disclosures as required by the SEBI guidelines/Securities and Exchange
Board of India (Share Based Employee Benefits and sweat equity) Regulations, 2021 on ESOS
are given in website of the Bank in the link: https://karnatakabank.com/
investors/annual-reports
The Company has received a certificate from M/s. SVJS & Associates, Bengaluru,
Practicing Company Secretaries, pursuant to Regulation 13 of the Securities Exchange Board
of India (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021 that the Bank
has implemented the ESOP Schemes in accordance with the applicable provisions of the
Regulations and Resolution(s) of the Bank in the General Meeting(s) and through postal
ballots, as the case may be and same is attached as Annexure-VII to this report.
DIRECTORS AND CHANGES IN THE BOARD
As of MarcRs. 31, 2025, Board of the Bank comprised of eleven Directors with one
independent woman Director. Except Mr. Srikrishnan H, Managing Director & CEO, Mr.
Sekhar Rao, Executive Director and Mr. B R Ashok, Non-Executive Director all of them are
Independent Directors. The details of the criteria for appointment and remuneration of
Directors are provided in the report on Corporate Governance under Annexure-IV.
Considering the foregoing and as per Section 152(6) of the Companies Act, 2013, at the
ensuing AGM, Mr. B R Ashok, Non-Executive Director, being the longest in office, shall
retire on rotation. Further, being eligible, he has offered himself for reappointment. In
the opinion of the Board, Mr. B R Ashok, Non-Executive Director, has the integrity,
expertise and requisite experience, which is beneficial to the business interest of the
Bank. Based on the performance evaluation and recommendation of the NRC, the Board
recommends his re-appointment for approval by the members of the Bank. Accordingly, a
resolution seeking the reappointment of Mr. B R Ashok, Non-Executive Director, has been
included in the Notice of 101st AGM.
RESIGNATIONS
Mr. Srikrishnan H (DIN: 00318563), resigned from the position of Managing Director
& CEO of the Bank, w.e.f. July 15, 2025. Further, Mr. Sekhar Rao (DIN: 06830595),
resigned from the position of Executive Director of the Bank, w.e.f. July 31,2025.
CESSATION
Mr. Justice A V Chandrashekar (DIN :08829073) ceased to hold office as Non-Executive
Independent Director w.e.f. August 18, 2025 upon completion of his tenure.
APPOINTMENT
Mr. Raghavendra Srinivas Bhat (DIN: 11165725), was appointed by the Board of Directors
as an Additional Director, in the capacity of Managing Director & CEO of the Bank for
a period of 3 (Three) months from July 16, 2025, or till the appointment of a regular MD
& CEO, whichever is earlier or for any further period, in accordance with the approval
of RBI, from time to time.
MANAGING DIRECTOR AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (MANAGING DIRECTOR & CEO)
Mr. Raghavendra Srinivas Bhat (DIN: 11165725), was appointed as Managing Director &
CEO of the Bank by the Board of Directors, for a period of three months, w.e.f. July 16,
2025, or till the appointment of a regular MD & CEO, whichever is earlier or for any
further period, in accordance with the approval of RBI, from time to time, consequent to
the resignation of Mr. Srikrishnan H (DIN: 00318563) as Managing Director & CEO,
w.e.f. July 15, 2025.
DECLARATION BY INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 149(7) of the Companies Act, 2013 and Regulation
25(8) of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, your
Bank has received necessary declarations from all the Independent Directors confirming
that they meet the criteria of independence for Independent Directors as on MarcRs.
31,2025.
FAMILIARISATION PROGRAMMES OF INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
All Directors, including Independent Directors are familiar with their roles, rights,
and responsibilities in the Bank at the time of appointment and also on a recurrent basis.
The Bank facilitates familiarisation programme and other programmes including a
Certification programme for its Directors. The details of various programmes undertaken/
arranged for familiarizing the Independent Directors and other programmes arranged for the
directors are disclosed in the Report on Corporate Governance under Annexure-IV,
which forms part of this Report.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF THE BOARD
Your Board of Directors has laid down criteria and processes for performance evaluation
of Directors, Chairman, Whole-time Directors, Committees of the Board and Board as a
whole. The NRC annually reviews and approves the criteria and the mechanism for carrying
out the evaluation exercise effectively. The statement indicating the manner in which
formal annual evaluation of the Directors, the Board and Committees of the Board, etc., is
given in detail in the report on Corporate Governance under Annexure-IV. In
pursuance to the above, the Independent Directors, in their separate meeting held on
MarcRs. 29, 2025, have reviewed, and evaluated the performance of the Board as a whole and
the Non-Executive Directors. Further, the Board has also reviewed the performance of the
individual Independent Directors at its meeting held on MarcRs. 27, 2025.
As per the Policy of the Bank on Performance Evaluation, the performance evaluation of
the Managing Director & CEO and the Executive Director is being carried out by the
Independent Directors.
CONTRACTS OR ARRANGEMENTS WITH RELATED PARTIES
All transactions with the related parties that were entered into during the financial
year under review are in the ordinary course of the business of the Bank and on an arm's
length basis. There were no materially significant related party transactions entered into
by the Bank with the Directors, Key Managerial Personnel or other persons which may have a
potential conflict with the interest of the Bank. As such a disclosure in Form AOC-2 is
not applicable. The Policy on dealing with Related Party Transactions as approved by the
Audit Committee/ Board has been placed on the website of the Bank under the Investor
Portal.
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
In accordance with Section 134(3)(c), 134(5) of the Companies Act, 2013, read with Rule
8 of the Companies (Accounts) Rule, 2014 and other applicable provisions, your Directors
state that:
a) In the preparation of the annual accounts, the applicable accounting standards have
been followed along with proper explanations relating to material departures.
b) The Directors have selected such accounting policies and applied them consistently
and made judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent so as to give a true and
fair view of the state of affairs of the Bank as of the end of financial year MarcRs.
31,2025, and profit and loss for that period.
c) The Directors have taken proper and sufficient care for the maintenance of adequate
accounting records in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, for
safeguarding the assets of the Bank and for preventing and detecting fraud and other
irregularities.
d) The Directors have prepared the annual accounts on a going concern basis.
e) The Directors have laid down the internal financial controls followed by the Bank
and that such internal financial controls are adequate and are operating effectively.
f) The Directors have devised proper systems to ensure compliance with the provision of
all applicable laws and that such systems were adequate and operating effectively.
AUDITORS
a. Statutory Auditors:
At the 100th Annual General Meeting held on 10th September 2024,
M/s. Ravi Rajan & Co LLP, Chartered Accountants, (Firm Registration No./LLP No.
009073N/N500320) and M/s. R. G. N Price & Co., Chartered Accountants (FRN 002785S),
were appointed as Joint Statutory Auditors of the Bank to hold office up to the ensuing
101st Annual General Meeting.
As per RBI guidelines, it is necessary to have a minimum of two Statutory Auditors for
our asset size. Accordingly, the Board of Directors of the Bank, at its meeting held on
24.06.2025, on the recommendation of the Audit Committee, proposed the re-appointment of
M/s. Ravi Rajan & Co LLP, Chartered Accountants, (Firm Registration No./LLP No.
009073N/N500320) and M/s. R. G. N Price & Co., Chartered Accountants, (FRN 002785S)
for the remaining period of one year and two years respectively as Joint Statutory
Auditors of the Bank. RBI, upon our application, pursuant to Section 30(1A) of the Banking
Regulation Act, 1949, has approved the proposed appointment vide letter dated 18.07.2025.
Accordingly, the Board of Directors recommends the appointment of M/s. Ravi Rajan & Co
LLP, Chartered Accountants, (Firm Registration No./LLP No. 009073N/N500320) and M/s. R. G.
N Price & Co., Chartered Accountants, (FRN 002785S) as Joint Statutory Auditors of the
Bank for the remaining period of one year and two years respectively. The Bank has
received consent from the above auditors and necessary confirmation from them that they
are not disqualified from being appointed as auditors of the Bank pursuant to the
provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and the Rules made thereunder.
b. Secretarial Audit Report:
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 204 of the Companies Act, 2013 and the rules made
thereunder, your Bank has appointed M/s. SVJS & Associates, Bengaluru, Company
Secretaries in practice as the Secretarial Auditor to conduct the Secretarial Audit for
the financial year ended MarcRs. 31,2025. The secretarial audit report from the
Secretarial Auditor is annexed to this report as a part of Annexure-VIII.
Pursuant to Regulation 24A of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements)
Regulations, 2015 read with SEBI Circular No. CIR/CFD/CMD1/27/2019 dated February 08,
2019, the Bank has obtained the Annual Secretarial Compliance Report, certified by CS
Lekha Ashok (COP: 9011), M/s. SVJS & Associates, Company Secretaries in practice,
Bengaluru, for the financial year ended MarcRs. 31,2025, on compliance of all applicable
SEBI Regulations and circulars/ guidelines issued thereunder and a copy was submitted to
the Stock Exchanges within the prescribed timeline. The Secretarial Compliance Report is
annexed to this report as a part of Annexure-IX.
c. Reporting of frauds by Auditors
There is no qualification in Auditors' Report, except for an Emphasis of matter drawn
for attention. During the year, pursuant to Section 143(12) of the Companies Act, 2013,
Auditors have reported one fraud (where amount involved is more than rupees one crore) and
reported the same to the Central Government under Form ADT-4.
STATUTORY DISCLOSURES
The disclosures under sub-section (3) of Section 134 of the Companies (Accounts) Rules,
2014 are furnished below:
a) Conservation of energy and technology absorption: Considering the nature of the
business of the Bank, the provisions of Section 134(3)(m) of the Companies Act, 2013
relating to conservation of energy and technology absorption are not applicable to your
Bank. The Bank has, however, used information technology in its operations extensively.
Further, to promote renewable sources of energy, the Bank has installed solar panels at
the Corporate Office, a few Regional Offices and the few owned premises of the Bank.
b) During the year ended MarcRs. 31,2025, the Bank earned Rs. 23.57 crore and spent Rs.
9.40 crore in foreign currency.
c) There were no significant and material orders passed by the regulators or courts of
tribunals impacting the going concern status and the operations in future of the Bank.
d) Internal financial control systems and their adequacy: Your Bank has laid down
standards, processes and structure facilitating the implementation of internal financial
control across the Bank and ensure that same are adequate and operating effectively.
e) Key Managerial Personnel:
Mr. Srikrishnan H, Managing Director & CEO, Mr. Sekhar Rao, Executive Director, Mr.
Abhishek S Bagchi, CFO and Mr. Sham K, Company Secretary, were the Key Managerial
Personnel of the Bank as on MarcRs. 31, 2025, as per the provisions of the Companies Act,
2013.
f) Remuneration of Directors: Disclosure pursuant to Section 197 (12) of the Companies
Act, 2013, read with Rule 5 of the Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial
Personnel) Rules, 2014 are given in Annexure-X to this report.
g) During the financial year 2024-25, no employee received remuneration requiring
disclosure as per the limits prescribed under Section 197 of the Companies Act, 2013, read
with Rule 5 of The Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules,
2014. However, the remuneration (including variable pay determined in the subsequent
financial year) pertaining to the Whole Time Directors is subject to prior approval of the
Reserve Bank of India. The details of remuneration paid to Mr. Srikrishnan H, the then
Managing Director & CEO (up to July 15, 2025), Mr. Sekhar Rao, the then Executive
Director (up to July 31,2025) is provided in the Corporate Governance attached to this
report in Annexure-IV.
h) In terms of Section 197(12) of the Act, read with Rule 5(2) and 5(3) of the
Companies (Appointment and Remuneration of Managerial Personnel) Rules, 2014, a statement
showing the names and other particulars of the Top 10 employees in terms of remuneration
drawn forms part of this annual report. In accordance with the provisions of Section
136(1) of the Act, the annual report excluding the aforesaid information, is being sent to
the members of the Bank and others entitled thereto. The said information is available for
inspection by the members at the Registered Office of the Bank during business hours of
the Bank up to the date of the ensuing Annual General Meeting. Any member interested in
obtaining a copy thereof, may write to us at investor.grievance@ktkbank.com.
i) There are no material changes affecting the financial position of the Bank which
have occurred between the end of the financial year of the Bank to which the financial
statements relate and the date of this Report.
j) Particulars of loans, guarantees or investments under section 186: Nil.
k) Any changes in nature of business during the year under review: Nil
NUMBER OF BOARD MEETINGS
During the financial year under review the Board met 18 times and the details thereof
are provided in the report on Corporate Governance attached to this report. The maximum
gap between any two Board Meetings was less than one Hundred and Twenty days.
COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD
As on MarcRs. 31,2025, the Bank had 9 Committees of the Board which were constituted to
comply with the requirements of relevant provisions of the applicable laws and for
operational efficiency. The details of the meetings of the Board and the Committees, their
composition (as on MarcRs. 31, 2025), terms of reference, powers, roles etc., are
furnished in the report on Corporate Governance attached to this report in Annexure-IV.
PROCEEDINGS PENDING UNDER THE INSOLVENCY AND BANKCRUPTCY CODE,2016:
No application has been made or any proceeding is pending under the IBC, 2016.
MAINTENANCE OF COST RECORDS
Being a banking Company, the Bank is not required to make and maintain such accounts
and cost records as specified by the Central Government under sub-section (1) of Section
148 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014.
INVESTOR EDUCATION AND PROTECTION FUND (IEPF)
The details of transfer of unclaimed dividend, shares, share application money to IEPF
are given in Report on Corporate Governance given as Annexure-IV to this report.
SECRETARIAL STANDARDS
The Company complies with all applicable secretarial standards issued by the Institute
of Company Secretaries of India.
BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITY & SUSTAINABILITY REPORT:
The Bank has adopted various policies that imbibe the best practices with regard to
environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles. In this context, Bank has prepared
a Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR) for the Financial Year 2024-25,
prepared in accordance with the requirements under Regulation 34(2)(f) of Securities and
Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations,
2015 and as per the format devised by the Securities and Exchange Board of India vide
Circular SEBI/HO/CFD/CFD-SEC-2/P/CIR/2023/122. The same is provided under Annexure-XI.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS:
In compliance with the Regulation 34 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure
Requirements) Regulations, 2015, separate Section on Management Discussion and Analysis,
as approved by the Board, which includes details on the state of affairs of the Bank,
forms part of this Board's Report.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Board of Directors would like to place on record their sincere gratitude to the
customers of the Bank, depositors, shareholders for their unwavering support, patronage
and goodwill. Your Directors also place on record their gratitude for the continued
guidance and support provided by the Reserve Bank of India, other government and
regulatory authorities, financial institutions and correspondent banks. Your Directors
express their deep sense of appreciation to all the staff members, for their contribution
to the quest for sustained growth and profitability of the Bank and look forward to their
continued contribution to scaling greater heights.
Place: Bengaluru |
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors P Pradeep Kumar |
Date: August 22, 2025 |
Chairman |