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Top Small Finance Bank Stocks in India as per Market Cap

Small finance banks (SFBs) are crucial to enhancing financial inclusion. They do this by providing banking services to underserved segments of the population. This blog delves into the leading small finance bank stocks in India, highlighting their market position and growth prospects, risk and advantages in investing, and other details which could be useful to an investor.

What are Small Finance Bank Stocks?

  • Definition: Small finance bank stocks are basically shares of banks which mainly focus on giving financial services to small businesses, micro-enterprises, and low-income households.

  • Purpose: These establishments aim to promote financial inclusion by offering savings accounts, loans, and other banking services.

Small Finance Bank Industry in India

  • Growth: Since its establishment the small finance bank sector demonstrated substantial expansion while increasing its presence between urban and rural areas.

  • Regulatory Support: The Reserve Bank of India through its regulatory support has enabled the establishment of SFBs to promote banking service accessibility.

  • Market Dynamics: The small finance bank industry maintains its evolution in 2025 because customers seek accessible credit and savings products.

What are the Features of Small Finance Bank Stocks in India?

  • Target Market: The banking institution targets underprivileged groups consisting of small enterprises and people with low incomes.

  • Diverse Offerings: Small Finance Banks deliver financial products including loans together with deposits and insurance services.

  • Regulatory Framework: The RBI sets strict guidelines which small finance banks must follow to maintain stability together with consumer protection.

  • Market Performance: Several SFBs show strong market performance through their profitable growth and expanding customer base. These two things also make them appealing for investment opportunities.

Top Small Finance Bank Stocks in India as per Market Capitalisation

The table below presents the top listed small finance banks in India based on their market capitalisation.

Company Name

Last Price (₹)

% Change

52-Week High (₹)

52-Week Low (₹)

Market Cap (₹ crore)

Sector

AU Small Finance Bank

540.30

2.89%

755.00

479.00

40,221.17

Bank - Private

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank

35.61

-1.14%

56.73

30.85

6,890.55

Bank - Private

Equitas Small Finance Bank

57.08

-0.28%

107.74

54.81

6,506.33

Bank - Private

Jana Small Finance Bank

433.55

0.84%

760.85

364.00

4,554.73

Bank - Private

Utkarsh Small Finance Bank

24.33

4.60%

61.97

21.18

2,680.22

Bank - Private

Source: MoneyControl as of March 23, 2025

Overview of Small Finance Bank Stocks in India by Market Cap

A quick view of the five leading small finance banks by market capitalisation:

Bank Name

Market Cap (₹ crore)

AU Small Finance Bank

40,221.17

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank

6,890.55

Equitas Small Finance Bank

6,506.33

Jana Small Finance Bank

4,554.73

Utkarsh Small Finance Bank

2,680.22

Source: MoneyControl

AU Small Finance Bank

AU Small Finance Bank operates from its headquarters in Jaipur as a private sector financial institution which provides diversified loan products throughout India. The company appears in two major Indian stock market indices known as BSE 100 and BSE 500. AU Small Finance Bank maintains capital adequacy ratio at 20.06% alongside a NIM level of 4.71%.

Key Financial and Market Indicators

Parameter

Value

Last Price (₹)

542.80

Market Cap (₹ crore)

40,407

52-Week High / Low (₹)

755.40 / 478.35

EPS (TTM)

26.50

P/E Ratio (TTM)

20.48

Price to Book (P/B)

2.52

Book Value Per Share (₹)

215.50

ROE (%)

12.21

NIM (%)

4.71

1-Year Return (%)

-4.09

Source: MoneyControl

Key Highlights:

  • Maintains a strong market cap of over ₹40,000 crore.

  • Consistently profitable with a TTM EPS of ₹26.50 and ROE of 12.21%.

  • Trades at a Price-to-Book ratio of 2.52; this value is higher than most peers in the SFB segment.

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank based in Bengaluru has achieved significant expansion throughout its history. The stock price of Ujjivan Small Finance Bank remains close to its lowest level from the past year as the entire SFB segment faces market challenges. The financial institution maintains a capital adequacy ratio of 24.69% while operating with an NIM of 8.43% which positions it as the top performer in the sector.

Key Financial and Market Indicators

Parameter

Value

Last Price (₹)

35.62

Market Cap (₹ crore)

6,892

52-Week High / Low (₹)

56.70 / 30.88

EPS (TTM)

5.03

P/E Ratio (TTM)

7.08

Price to Book (P/B)

1.17

Book Value Per Share (₹)

30.40

ROE (%)

22.82

NIM (%)

8.43

1-Year Return (%)

-22.48

Source: MoneyControl

Key Highlights:

  • This institution demonstrates very high lending profitability through its 8.43% NIM which ranks among the highest in the sector.

  • The company achieved an ROE of 22.82% which exceeds most figures in the private sector banking industry.

  • The stock trades at an attractive valuation ratio between P/E 7.08 and dividend yield 4.21%.

Equitas Small Finance Bank

Equitas Small Finance Bank based in Chennai has progressively expanded its retail banking operations. Profitability has decreased recently but Equitas Small Finance Bank continues to hold a satisfactory asset quality rating. The stock has experienced a 38% decline during the last twelve months although the bank demonstrates a strong NIM of 6.79%.

Key Financial and Market Indicators

Parameter

Value

Last Price (₹)

57.06

Market Cap (₹ crore)

6,504

52-Week High / Low (₹)

107.80 / 54.80

EPS (TTM)

2.74

P/E Ratio (TTM)

20.82

Price to Book (P/B)

1.09

Book Value Per Share (₹)

52.19

ROE (%)

13.38

NIM (%)

6.79

1-Year Return (%)

-37.67

Source: MoneyControl

Key Highlights:

  • Healthy NIM of 6.79% despite a 1-year stock decline of nearly 38%.

  • Reasonable valuations with P/B at 1.09 and TTM P/E of 20.82.

  • The current value of Book Value Per Share amounts to ₹52.19 which aligns closely with the market price.

Jana Small Finance Bank

Jana Small Finance Bank operates from Bengaluru and stands as one of the newest financial institutions listed as small finance banks. The Reserve Bank of India granted Jana Small Finance Bank its AD-I license to operate in foreign exchange transactions. Jana SFB displays strong profitability with an EPS of ₹66.59 and ROE of 18.71%. The current P/E ratio of 6.53 is relatively low.

Key Financial and Market Indicators

Parameter

Value

Last Price (₹)

434.80

Market Cap (₹ crore)

4,567

52-Week High / Low (₹)

760.90 / 363.80

EPS (TTM)

66.59

P/E Ratio (TTM)

6.53

Price to Book (P/B)

1.18

Book Value Per Share (₹)

367.56

ROE (%)

18.71

NIM (%)

6.50

1-Year Return (%)

12.31

Source: MoneyControl

Key Highlights:

  • Strong profitability with an EPS of ₹66.59 and lowest P/E among peers at 6.53.

  • Recently received RBI’s AD-I license, enabling it to offer forex services.

  • Maintains a high ROE of 18.71% and NIM of 6.50%, reflecting healthy operational metrics.

Utkarsh Small Finance Bank

Headquartered in Varanasi, Utkarsh Small Finance Bank has experienced sharp stock declines, with a 1-year return of nearly -50%. The bank posted a Q3 loss of ₹168 crore, which significantly impacted investor sentiment. Despite this, its capital adequacy ratio remains strong at 22.57% and an above-average NIM of 7.88%.

Key Financial and Market Indicators

Parameter

Value

Last Price (₹)

24.30

Market Cap (₹ crore)

2,676

52-Week High / Low (₹)

61.70 / 21.25

EPS (TTM)

1.64

P/E Ratio (TTM)

14.82

Price to Book (P/B)

0.86

Book Value Per Share (₹)

28.37

ROE (%)

16.73

NIM (%)

7.88

1-Year Return (%)

-49.74

Source: MoneyControl

Key Highlights:

  • Despite recent losses, maintains a robust capital adequacy ratio of 22.57%.

  • Attractive Price-to-Book valuation at 0.86 and high NIM of 7.88%.

  • Stock has declined ~50% YoY, placing it near its all-time low valuation zone.

What Factors Should One Consider Before Investing in Small Finance Banks Sector Stocks in India?

  • Financial Health: Assess the bank's profitability through metrics such as Return on Equity (ROE), Return on Assets (ROA), and Net Interest Margin (NIM).

  • Loan Portfolio Quality: Evaluate the Non-Performing Assets (NPA) ratio to understand the quality of the loan book.

  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure the bank adheres to guidelines set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), including capital adequacy ratios.

  • Market Position: Consider the bank's market share and growth potential in underserved regions.

  • Management Quality: Review the experience and track record of the management team, because strong leadership is crucial for navigating challenges.

What Factors Influence the Performance of Small Finance Bank Stocks?

  • Economic Conditions: Macroeconomic factors like interest rates and inflation can end up significantly impacting profitability.

  • Regulatory Changes: New regulations or changes in existing policies can hit operational capabilities and profitability.

  • Market Demand: The demand for credit among small businesses and underserved segments directly influences growth.

  • Technological Advancements: Banks investing in technology for digital banking can enhance customer engagement and operational efficiency.

How do Small Finance Bank Stocks Work?

Small finance bank stocks represent ownership in banks that focus on providing financial services to underserved populations. When investors buy shares, they gain a stake in the bank's profits. Said profits may be generated through interest on loans, fees, and other banking services. The performance of these stocks is influenced by the bank's ability to manage risks, maintain asset quality, and expand customer base.

Tips for Investing in Small Finance Bank Industry in India

  • Diversify Investments: Investors would do well to distribute their funds across multiple small finance banks in order to lower the risks that come from single bank investments.

  • Monitor Financial Metrics: Regularly review key performance indicators like NIM, ROE, and CAR to assess ongoing performance.

  • Stay Informed: Keep abreast of regulatory changes and economic trends that may affect the banking sector even generally.

  • Evaluate Growth Potential: Focus on banks with strong growth strategies and a solid track record of expanding their customer base.

How to Pick Small Finance Bank Stocks

1.   Research Financial Performance: Analyze financial statements for clarity on profitability, asset quality, and capital adequacy.

2.   Assess Market Position: Look for banks with a strong presence in underserved areas and a diversified loan portfolio.

3.   Evaluate Management Team: Investigate the qualifications and past performance of the management team.

4.   Consider Regulatory Compliance: Ensure the bank adheres to RBI regulations for stability and investor confidence.

5.   Review Customer Base Growth: Pick from among banks showing consistent growth in their customer base and deposits.

By minding these factors, investors can make informed decisions when investing in small finance bank stocks. This lets them leverage their growth potential while managing associated risks effectively.

Who Should Explore Small Finance Bank Stocks?

  • Growth-Oriented Investors: Individuals seeking high growth potential in emerging markets should consider small finance bank stocks due to their focus on underserved segments.

  • Risk-Tolerant Investors: Those comfortable with taking on higher risk may find these stocks appealing, as they can offer substantial rewards in spite of inherent volatility.

  • Long-Term Investors: Investors looking for gradual extended growth can benefit from the expanding operations of small finance banks, which target financial inclusion.

Why Invest in Small Finance Bank Stocks?

  • High Growth Potential: SFBs cater to underserved markets, setting up opportunities for significant expansion and long-term value creation.

  • Government Support: Favorable policies aimed at promoting financial inclusion boost stability and also investor confidence.

  • Diversified Offerings: A range of financial products helps mitigate risks and stabilize returns, making these stocks attractive for investment.

  • Increased Accessibility: Targeting regions which have limited banking services lets small finance banks attract more customers, which means higher revenue streams.

Should You Invest in Small Finance Bank Stocks?

Investing in small finance bank stocks can be a viable option for those looking for growth opportunities in the financial sector. However, potential investors should check their risk tolerance and investment horizon. It always makes sense to do thorough research and consider market conditions before making investment decisions.

What are the Risks of Investing in Small Finance Bank Stocks in India?

  • Credit Risk: A significant risk comes with exposure to small borrowers, and that could lead to higher default rates impacting profitability.

  • Regulatory Changes: Changes in regulations can affect operational capabilities and profitability, creating uncertainty for investors.

  • Market Volatility: Economic fluctuations can affect stock prices, meaning these investments are susceptible to market dynamics.

What are the Advantages of Investing in Small Finance Bank Stocks in India?

  • Focus on Financial Inclusion: Targeting underserved segments can bring high growth potential and increased market share over time.

  • Stable Revenue Streams: A diversified loan portfolio cuts dependency on any single sector, with balanced risk as well as the chance of sustainable returns.

  • Innovation and Technology Adoption: Many SFBs leverage technology to enhance service delivery, improving competitive advantage and stock values.

  • Strong Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to RBI norms ensures long-term sustainability and investor confidence, setting up these banks as reliable investments.

Investors considering small finance bank stocks should weigh these advantages against the risks to make informed decisions that align with their financial goals.

Who Can Invest in Small Finance Bank Stocks?

  • Retail Investors: Individuals with a trading account and demat account can easily invest in SFB stocks through stock exchanges.

  • Institutional Investors: Mutual funds, pension funds, and other institutional entities often explore these stocks for their growth potential.

  • Long-Term Investors: Those wanting exposure to high-growth sectors with financial inclusion goals may see these stocks as appealing.

  • Intraday Traders: Investors involved in intraday trading can capitalize on the volatility of these stocks for short-term gains.

Is Investing in Small Finance Bank Stocks Risky?

  • Credit Risk: Small finance banks often target underserved segments, which may result in higher loan defaults.

  • Market Volatility: These stocks are susceptible to fluctuations, making them risky for investors without a long-term horizon.

  • Regulatory Risks: Changes in RBI guidelines can impact operations and profitability.

  • Asset Quality Concerns: Non-performing assets (NPAs) can affect stock performance and investor returns.

Investors can mitigate risks by using tools like a brokerage calculator to assess costs and returns before investing.

How To Invest In Small Finance Bank Stocks

1.   Open a Demat Account: A demat account is essential for holding shares electronically. Pair it with a trading account to execute transactions.

2.   Research Stocks: Analyze financial metrics such as market capitalization, PE ratio, ROE, and asset quality of banks like AU Small Finance Bank or Ujjivan Small Finance Bank.

3.   Evaluate Upcoming IPOs: Consider investing in IPOs of small finance banks for early entry into stocks with good potential.

4.   Use MTF (Margin Trading Facility): For leveraged investments, MTF allows you to buy more shares than your available funds.

5.   Monitor Performance: Regularly track stock performance using tools like brokerage calculators and financial reports.

What is the Impact of Government Policies on Small Finance Bank Stocks?

Government policies play a crucial role in shaping the performance of small finance bank stocks in India. Key impacts include:

  • Regulatory Framework: Policies regarding capital requirements and interest rates directly influence profitability. For instance, adjustments made by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) can affect lending rates and, consequently, the banks' margins.

  • Support for Financial Inclusion: Initiatives aimed at promoting financial inclusion benefit small finance banks by increasing their customer base and loan disbursement capabilities.

  • Economic Stimulus Measures: Government schemes that facilitate easier access to credit for small businesses can enhance growth prospects for these banks.

  • Impact of Stringent Regulations: Conversely, strict regulatory measures can hinder operational flexibility and profitability, necessitating that investors remain vigilant about policy changes.

Investors should utilize a brokerage calculator to assess potential impacts on stock valuations based on these policies.

How Small Finance Bank Stocks Perform in Economic Downturns

In economic downturns, small finance bank stocks typically face several challenges:

  • Increased Default Rates: Economic slowdowns often lead to higher loan defaults, particularly among small borrowers, which can adversely affect profitability.

  • Reduced Credit Demand: A downturn usually results in decreased demand for loans, impacting revenue streams for small finance banks.

  • Resilience Factors: Despite these challenges, small finance banks may benefit from government support aimed at financial inclusion, allowing them to maintain some stability.

  • Niche Market Position: Their focus on underserved markets can provide a buffer against broader economic declines, but investors should closely monitor asset quality and risk management practices.

Investors engaging in intraday trading might find opportunities during market fluctuations but should be cautious of inherent risks during downturns.

Small Finance Banks Sector Highlights from Union Budget 2025-2026

The Union Budget 2025-2026 has significant implications for the small finance bank sector:

  • Increased Capital Allocation: The budget allocates funds to enhance financial inclusion initiatives, directly benefiting small finance banks.

  • Support for MSMEs: Continued emphasis on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through collateral-free loans will likely boost demand for small finance bank services.

  • Tax Incentives: The introduction of tax incentives for banks focusing on rural lending can enhance profitability and attract more investors.

  • Digital Transformation Initiatives: Government initiatives promoting digital banking are expected to improve operational efficiency in small finance banks.

Investors should evaluate how these budgetary provisions impact individual bank performance when considering investments.

Future Trends and Opportunities of Investing in Small Finance Bank Stocks

Future trends indicate promising opportunities for investing in small finance bank stocks:

  • Technological Advancements: Increased adoption of digital banking solutions can enhance customer engagement and reduce operational costs for these banks.

  • Focus on Financial Inclusion: As the government continues to promote financial inclusion, small finance banks are well-positioned to capture market share from underserved segments.

  • Sustainable Growth Strategies: Many banks are adopting sustainable practices that align with global trends, attracting socially conscious investors.

  • Potential IPOs: Upcoming IPOs from successful small finance banks may provide solid investment opportunities for early investors looking to capitalize on growth potential.

Investors should keep a trading account ready to act swiftly on emerging opportunities as they arise in this dynamic sector.

What is the GDP Contribution of Small Finance Banks Sector Stocks?

Small finance banks significantly contribute to India's GDP through various avenues:

  • Facilitating Financial Inclusion: By providing access to credit for underserved populations and small businesses, they stimulate economic activity and job creation.

  • Regional Development: Investments made by small finance banks in rural and semi-urban areas promote local economies and enhance overall productivity.

  • Boosting Consumer Spending: Improved access to financial services encourages consumer spending, further driving economic growth and contributing positively to GDP figures.

Overall, the role of small finance banks is pivotal in supporting economic stability and growth within India’s broader financial landscape. Investors should consider this contribution when evaluating potential investments in this sector.

What is the Future of Small Finance Bank Stocks?

The future of small finance bank stocks in India appears promising, driven by several key factors:

  • Increased Demand for Financial Inclusion: As the government continues to promote financial inclusion initiatives, small finance banks are well-positioned to capture a larger market share. Their focus on underserved segments allows them to expand their customer base significantly.

  • Technological Advancements: The adoption of fintech solutions is transforming how small finance banks operate. By leveraging technology, these banks can enhance service delivery, reduce operational costs, and improve customer engagement, positioning themselves competitively in the market.

  • Rising Credit Demand: With a growing economy and increasing credit needs from micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), small finance banks are likely to experience robust loan growth. This demand is expected to be bolstered by government initiatives aimed at supporting MSMEs.

  • Regulatory Support: The regulatory environment is becoming more favorable for small finance banks, with policies designed to encourage lending to underserved populations. This support can enhance profitability and stability within the sector.

Overall, the outlook for small finance bank stocks is optimistic as they adapt to changing market dynamics and capitalize on growth opportunities.

Why is It Worth Buying Small Finance Bank Stocks Now?

Investing in small finance bank stocks now can be advantageous for several reasons:

  • Growth Potential: Small finance banks are positioned in niche markets with significant growth opportunities. Their focus on underserved segments means there is ample room for expansion as financial inclusion efforts ramp up.

  • Attractive Valuations: Many small finance bank stocks are currently trading at attractive valuations compared to their larger counterparts. This presents an opportunity for investors to enter at a lower price point before potential appreciation.

  • Government Initiatives: Ongoing government programs aimed at promoting financial inclusion and supporting MSMEs create a favorable environment for small finance banks, enhancing their growth prospects.

  • Technological Integration: These banks are increasingly adopting digital solutions, raising their capability to improve efficiency and customer service, leading to higher profitability and stock value.

Given these factors, now may be an opportune time for investors to consider adding small finance bank stocks to their portfolios.

Conclusion

Small finance banks are key to India's banking landscape as they promote financial inclusion by catering to underserved markets. What with the rising credit demand, technological advancements, and supportive government policies, investing in SFB stocks presents an appealing opportunity to many investors.

As these institutions keep innovating and expanding, investors willing to engage with this dynamic sector could gain significant returns. However, it's vital to be mindful of the inherent risks of investing in smaller financial institutions. Thorough research before making investment decisions is always the right way to go. Overall, small finance bank stocks represent a valuable addition for those looking to capitalize on India's evolving financial ecosystem.

Other Popular Stocks in India

Beyond the top small finance banks, two additional SFB stocks are currently listed on Indian exchanges — Capital Small Finance Bank and Suryoday Small Finance Bank. These banks cater to niche geographies and segments, and while their market capitalisation is relatively modest, they remain part of broader sectoral discussions in banking and financial services.

Company Name

Last Price (₹)

52-Week High (₹)

52-Week Low (₹)

Market Cap (₹ crore)

Capital Small Finance Bank

283.65

406.70

250.00

1,283.43

Suryoday Small Finance Bank

107.00

219.55

98.05

1,137.25

For those tracking these stocks via a demat account, tools like a trading account, brokerage calculator, and MTF (Margin Trading Facility) may be used depending on the trading style. While not high-volume intraday trading picks, these stocks are often revisited during broader conversations around financial sector performance and upcoming IPO trends within banking.

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Disclaimer: Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing.

This content is for educational purposes only. Securities quoted are exemplary and not recommendatory.

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