Balance sheet sees significant rise
RBI Balance Sheet Expands Sharply in FY 2024-25: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a solid expansion in its balance sheet for the financial year 2024–25. It has grown by 8.2%, reaching a total of ₹76.25 lakh crore. This spike is largely due to increased foreign exchange transactions, a surge in gold reserves, and strong domestic investments.
India’s ability to withstand global economic pressures reflects in this report. It adds to India’s image as the fastest-growing major economy in 2025–26, a title it proudly holds among G20 nations.
Financial indicators show healthy performance
The RBI’s income jumped by 22.77%, while expenditures increased moderately at 7.76%. The surplus touched ₹2.69 trillion, a growth of 27.37% over the previous year.
Key contributors to this rise include:
- 52.09% increase in gold holdings
- 14.32% rise in domestic investments
- 1.70% increase in foreign investments
Gold has traditionally been a strong reserve asset. India’s growing gold reserves are aligned with global central bank trends, which are shifting towards gold as a hedge.
Asset and liability snapshot
As of March 31, 2025:
- Domestic assets: 25.73% of total
- Foreign assets, gold, and loans to banks: 74.27%
On the liabilities side:
- Notes issued rose by 6.03%
- Revaluation accounts rose by 17.32%
- Other liabilities saw a jump of 23.31%
These figures reflect a strong and diversified portfolio held by the RBI.
Currency usage trends
During FY 2024–25:
- Banknotes in circulation increased by 6%
- ₹500 notes, though still the most circulated, declined slightly in value terms
- Withdrawal of ₹2000 notes continued with 98.2% returned to banks
- Coins in circulation rose by 9.6%
The ₹500 note has become the backbone of cash transactions, similar to how the ₹100 note held dominance during the early 2000s.
Rise in digital rupee and note security
The e-rupee (India’s central bank digital currency) saw a 334% increase in circulation. It shows growing trust in digital payments and reflects the RBI’s push towards a cash-light economy.
Meanwhile, counterfeit currency saw a decline overall, except in:
- ₹200 notes: 13.9% rise
- ₹500 notes: 37.3% rise
This underlines the need for enhanced security features and public awareness.
Policy focus on stability
The RBI reaffirmed its focus on macroeconomic stability. It expects headline inflation to align with the 4% target in the next 12 months. Good agricultural output and smoother supply chains are helping keep prices in check.
The RBI also urged banks to be cautious with interest rate risks and manage both trading and banking book exposures, as net interest margins begin to narrow.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
RBI Balance Sheet Expands Sharply in FY 2024-25:
| Topic | Details |
| RBI Balance Sheet FY25 | ₹76.25 lakh crore (8.2% increase) |
| RBI Surplus FY25 | ₹2.69 trillion (27.37% rise) |
| Gold Holdings Increase | 52.09% |
| Digital Rupee Growth | 334% |
| Most Circulated Banknote | ₹500 |
| ₹2000 Note Status | 98.2% returned to banks |
| Banknote Circulation Rise | 6% |
| Coins Circulation Rise | 9.6% |
| Domestic Assets Share | 25.73% |
| Foreign + Gold + Loans Share | 74.27% |
| Inflation Target | 4% |
| Central Bank Founded | 1 April 1935 (RBI HQ: Mumbai) |
| Governor of RBI (2025) | Shaktikanta Das |
