ESAF Small Finance Bank Sees Strong Bond Demand, Bullish on Retail Market

• ESAF Small Finance Bank received strong investor interest in its recent ₹150 crore Tier-II bond issue.
• The funds were raised to strengthen capital adequacy, which stands at 22%, above the 15% regulatory requirement.
• MD & CEO K Paul Thomas believes India's corporate debt market is entering a new phase with rising retail participation via online platforms.
• The bank raised ₹415 crore last fiscal year, primarily through Tier-II instruments, to improve capital buffers.
• ESAF is transforming its balance sheet, reducing microfinance exposure, and increasing secured loans like gold and MSME lending.