The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its in-principle approval for strategic disinvestment along with transfer of management control in IDBI Bank Ltd. The extent of respective shareholding to be divested by GoI and LIC shall be decided at the time of structuring of transaction in consultation with RBI.

Government of India (GoI) and LIC together own more than 94% of equity of IDBI Bank (GoI 45.48%, LIC 49.24%).  LIC is currently the promoter of IDBI Bank with Management Control and GoI is the co-promoter.

LIC’s Board has passed a resolution to the effect that LIC may reduce its shareholding in IDBI Bank Ltd. through divesting its stake along with strategic stake sale envisaged by the Govt. with an intent to relinquish management control and by taking into consideration price, market outlook, statutory stipulation and interest of policy holders.

This decision of LICs Board is also consistent with the regulatory mandate to it to reduce its stake in the Bank.

It is expected that strategic buyer will infuse funds, new technology and best management practices for optimal development of business potential and growth of IDBI Bank Ltd. and shall generate more business without any dependence on LIC and Government assistance/funds.  Resources through strategic disinvestment of Govt. equity from the transaction would be used to finance developmental programmes of the Government benefiting the citizens.

Strategic disinvestment in IDBI Bank approved to transfer management control and attract private capital and expertise. Cabinet approval authorises strategic disinvestment in IDBI Bank with transfer of management control, triggering reduction of promoter shareholding to be structured during transaction design with banking regulators; LIC has resolved to participate in stake reduction and relinquish management control, considering price, market conditions, statutory obligations and policy holder interests, while the strategic buyer is expected to bring capital, technology and managerial practices and proceeds from Government equity will be used for developmental programmes.