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India is one of the largest economies globally, with an exceptionally large population and incredible economic variance among its citizens. To meet the high demand, there are many Public Sector and Private Sector Banks that efficiently serve the heterogeneous residents of the nation.
It is not only the Indian banks, but some reputed foreign banks also cater to Indian customers. Read below to know more about the best banks in India on the basis of different criteria. All you ought to do is take a brief look and see for yourself!
Classification of the Best Indian Banks on Different Parameters
The fact is that Indian banking is widely regarded as one of the best in the world; no single bank can be ranked as the best. Also, in the past few years, the banking industry has transformed into a modern setup and has become a lot more customer-centric than ever before.
Today, different banks apply different approaches and have their own way of showing concern about customer satisfaction and retention. This makes all of them unique from each other and best in their own way.
Let’s take a glance at some of the criteria on which all of these banks are good:
- The best Nationalised Bank in India: State Bank Of India
- The best Private Bank in India: ICICI Bank
- The best Bank for Salary Account: IDFC First Bank
- The best Bank For Savings Account in India: Equitas Small Finance Bank
- The best Bank For Fixed Deposits: Suryoday Small Finance Bank
- The best Digital Bank in India: Kotak Mahindra Bank
- The best Bank for Gold Loan: HDFC bank
- The best Bank for Home Loan in India: State Bank Of India
- The best Bank for Zero Balance Account: HDFC Bank
- The best Bank for Mutual Funds in India: ICICI Bank
- The Best Neobanks in India: Fi Money
- The best Bank for Opening PPF Account: SBI Bank
- The best Bank for Students: ICICI Bank
- The best Bank for Personal Loan: SBI Bank
List Of Best Banks of India
Best Private Banks of India
- ICICI Bank
- HDFC Bank
- Axis Bank
- RBL Bank
- Federal Bank
Let’s learn more about these banks in detail.
1. ICICI Bank
ICICI, Industrial Credit and Investment Corporation of India, is known to be the most reliable among all private banks in the country. It is a leading private sector bank that presents a comprehensive spectrum of services and boosts the employment of thousands of Indians.
Apart from serving India, the bank has subsidiaries in the United Kingdom and Canada and branches in different countries across the world. This makes it one of the most thriving banks in terms of financials and account holders in India as well as other countries.
Services offered:
- Credit Cards
- Debit Cards
- Retail banking
- Wholesale banking
- Loans
- Privilege banking
- Insurance policies
- Fixed Deposits
Type | Headquarters | Branches | ATMs | Employees | Website |
Private Sector | Vadodara, Gujarat, India | 5,418 | 13,463 (Across India) | 97,354 (2020) | icicibank.com |
2. Axis Bank
Founded in 1993, Axis bank was formerly known as UTI bank, which later got changed in 2007. Over the years, it has made its existence felt among the top private banks in India. Today, it holds the third position on the list of largest private banks in the country.
It is regarded as offering a spectrum of financial services to different customer segments. This makes it the bank that you actually need.
Services offered:
- Safe deposit locker
- Retail banking
- Loans
- Investment
- Forex
- Insurance
Type | Asset | Branches | ATMs | Employees | Website |
Private Sector | Rs 8,00,997 crore (US$110 billion) (2019) | 4,758 | 10,990 (Across India) | 78,300 (2021) | axisbank.com |
3. RBL Bank
RBL Bank, formerly known as Ratnakar Bank, is one of the fastest-growing private banks in India. It was founded in the year 1943 to serve the Kolhapur-Sangli belt of Maharashtra, but today it caters to over 11.15 million customers across the nation.
In the mid-sized bank segment, RBL has recently been awarded as the best bank in India. The bank offers services across six different verticles, making it the right choice for fulfilling all your banking needs.
Services offered:
- Online banking
- Personal banking
- Credit cards
- Personal loans
- Fixed deposits
- Savings account & insurance
- Institutional banking
- treasury and financial market operations
Type | Headquarters | Branches | ATMs | Employees | Website |
Private Sector | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India | 502 | 414 (Across India) | 5,843 (2019) | rblbank.com |
4. Federal Bank
Founded back in 1931 as Travancore Federal Bank, Federal Bank has managed to mark its presence among the best private banks in India. It is one of the first banks to make all branch processes computerised in the country and introduce the customers to a digital bank.
It has a customer base of over 10 million, along with a large remittance of partners all across the world.
Services offered:
- Internet banking
- Mobile banking
- Online bill payment
- Online fee collection
- Depository services
- Cash Management Services
- Merchant banking services
- Insurance
- Mutual fund products
Type | Headquarters | Branches | ATMs | Employees | Website |
Private Sector | Aluva, Kochi, Kerala, India | 1272 | 1937 (Across India) | 12,592 (2021) | federalbank.co.in |
5. HDFC Bank
Founded back in 1994, HDFC has an interesting history of serving Indian customers. In the country, it is the largest private sector bank by assets and the 10 largest in the world by market capitalisation.
It offers a huge range of banking products to its clients and aids over a million customers nationwide. At present, it is one of India’s international banks that generates employment for over 1 Lakh individuals in the country.
Services offered:
- Wholesale bank services
- Retail Banking
- Debit and Credit Cards
- Home Loans, personal loans, etc
- Bills payment
- Money transfer
- Insurance products
- Mutual Funds and IPO
Type | Headquarters | Branches | ATMs | Employees | Website |
Private Company | Mumbai, Maharashtra , India | 6,342 | 18,130 (Across India) | 120,093 (2021) | hdfcbank.com |
Best Public Banks in India
- State Bank of India (SBI)
- Punjab National Bank (PNB)
- Bank of Baroda (BoB)
- Canara Bank
- Union Bank of India
Let’s read more about them ahead.
1. State Bank of India
SBI holds and manages about 23% share of the total market assets in India, making it one of the largest public sector banks in the country. It is an Indian multinational public sector bank that is also the fifth-largest employer and holds 43rd position on the list of largest banks in the world. While this bank was founded 66 years ago in 1955, it has a rich heritage and legacy of over 200 years as some of the most trusted banks in the country. With time multiple banks got merged and became what we know today- SBI.
Services offered:
- Retail banking
- Investments
- Fixed deposits
- Loans
- Debit and Credit Cards
- Internet banking
- NRI remittances
Type | Headquarters | Branches | ATMs | Employees | Website |
Public Sector | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India | 22,000 | (Across India) | 245,642 (2020) | sbi.co.in |
2. Punjab National Bank (PNB)
Punjab National Bank, abbreviated as PNB, is one of the renowned and trusted public sector banks that operate under the Ministry of Finance, Government of India. Founded 128 years ago, this bank today is the second-largest government-owned bank in the country, with a customer base of over 180 million. The bank serves 11,809 locations and provides a wide array of services to all segments of customers.
Services offered:
- Personal Deposits
- Loans
- Insurance
- Doorstep Banking
- NRI loans
- EXIM Finance
- Mutual Funds
- Cards
Type | Headquarters | Branches | ATMs | Employees | Website |
Public Sector | Dwarka, Delhi, India | 12,248 | 13,000+ (Across India) | 1,03,000 (2020) | pnbindia.in |
3. Bank of Baroda (BoB)
The third-largest nationalised bank in India, Bank of Baroda, serves over 132 million customers. Starting in 1908, this bank has a long and eventful journey of serving people across 17 countries. It is a one-stop, reliable partner that addresses different financial needs of the customers with its range of different services. This national bank of international standards is committed to valuing its customers and serving them with the best products.
Services offered:
- Merchant payment solutions
- Life and Health Insurance
- Government deposit schemes
- Term Deposit
- Loans
- Account opening
Type | Headquarters | Branches | ATMs | Employees | Website |
Public Sector | Vadodara, Gujarat, India | 8,214 | 10,033 (Across India) | 82,000+ (2021) | bankofbaroda.in |
4. Canara Bank
Working under the ownership of the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, Canara Bank holds the fourth position in the Public Sector Banks in terms of assets owned in India. The bank was founded in 1906 and had through several phases before attaining the status of a national player in India. Today, it is highly known for customer-centricity and for fulfilling all financial needs. Its operational efficiency makes it expand its reach both in and outside the country.
Services offered:
- Personal banking
- Consultancy services
- Corporate banking
- Merchant banking
- Depository services
- NRI loans and advances
Type | Headquarters | Branches | ATMs | Employees | Website |
Public Sector | Bangalore, India | 9,734 | 12,208 (Across India) | 88,213 (2021) | canarabank.com |
5. Union Bank of India (UBI)
With over 120+ million customer base, Union Bank of India is one of the best Indian government-owned banks. After the amalgamation of a few banks, UBI came into effect on 1 April 2020. Due to the merger, this bank has become one of the largest PSU banks in terms of the branch network. It also operates overseas in Hong Kong, Dubai, Antwerp, and Sydney, with offices in Shanghai, Beijing and Abu Dhabi. The bank offers a myriad of financial services covering all the needs of the customers.
Services offered:
- Accounts and deposits
- Digital banking
- Wealth management
- Government schemes
- Lockers
- Corporate loans
- Treasury and remittances
Type | Headquarters | Branches | ATMs | Employees | Website |
Public Sector | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India | 9,316 | 12,957 (Across India) | 78,202 (2021) | unionbankofindia.co.in |
Best Banks for Salary Account
- IDFC Bank
- RBL Bank
- ICICI Bank
- AXIS BANK
- HDFC Bank
Let’s learn more details about these banks.
1. IDFC Bank
In terms of Salary accounts, IDFC bank is one of the best options for making the most of your earnings while enjoying a range of benefits like free airport lounge access, personal accident insurance cover, unlimited free ATM transactions, and a zero balance account.
Also, it offers interest up to 6% with no annual debit card fees and debit card re-issuance fees. A customer can also open Employee Reimbursement Account online with ease.
Types of Salary Accounts:
- Corporate Salary account with Visa Signature Debit Card
- Corporate Salary account with Visa Platinum Debit Card
- Vishesh Salary account with Rupay Platinum Debit Card
2. RBL Bank
For the Salary account holder, the interest rates are up to 6% with unlimited ATM cash withdrawal transactions and a range of other exciting benefits. The bank ensures a hassle-free banking experience, allows customers to open zero balance accounts, and puts minimal charges.
Also, users get debit card options like Visa Classic/Platinum Debit Card/Master Titanium/Platinum Master Debit Card. Other facilities include Email and SMS alerts, a Safe deposit locker facility, and a Complimentary chequebook.
3. ICICI Bank
ICICI Salary Account is a benefit-rich payroll account for employees as well as employers. It is a zero-balance account that offers interest up to 3.50%, along with attractive offers on loans and credit cards.
This account provides the privilege of 8-8 banking and can be easily opened with minimal paperwork. For better choice, the bank has four types of salary accounts targeting different customer segments and fulfiling the needs of the majority of the population.
Types of Salary Account:
- Silver Salary Account
- Gold Salary Account
- Titanium Salary Account
- Defence Salary Account
4. Axis Bank
Axis Bank salary account holders can enjoy seamless and convenient access to their salaries with incredible interest rates.
It is the most appropriate account to enjoy a myriad of benefits like Senior ID cards, domestic travel plans, cashback, discount on locker rentals, shopping vouchers, and more. However, all these benefits, withdrawal limits, and kinds of debit cards vary with the type of account.
Types of Salary Account:
- Burgundy Salary Account
- Easy Access Salary Account
- Liberty Salary Account
- Prestige Salary Account
- Priority Salary Account
- Axis Republic Salary Account
- Defence Salary Account
- Employee Reimbursement Account
- Prime Salary Account
5. HDFC Bank
HDFC Bank salary account is a zero balance salary account that is designed to keep the customers happy with the benefits of modern, customised banking services. The holders of this account are entitled to receive an interest rate of 3.50% to 4%, depending upon the type of account.
Along with this, they enjoy the benefits like net banking, mobile banking, phone banking, and SMS banking.
Types of Salary Account:
- Regular Salary Account
- Premium With Platinum Debit Card
- Premium With Millennia Debit Card
- Defence Salary Account
- Government Salary Account
- Family Salary Account
- Reimbursement Account
In addition, you can also explore the list of best banks for salary accounts in India.
Best Bank for Rewards and Cashback
- HDFC Bank
- AXIS Bank
- HSBC Bank
- Citibank
- Standard Chartered Bank
Let’s learn more about these best Reward and Cashback banks:
1. HDFC Bank
One of the largest private sector banks in India, HDFC is highly-known for its outstanding cashback and rewards.
There is a long list of lucrative offers and discounts that the bank provides to its account holders in order to allow them to shop, book travel, and also use it in other offline and online transactions.
- Rewards and cashback on shopping via online platforms like Flipkart, Amazon, IGP, GYFTR, etc.
- Cashback on shopping through Bigbasket and paying using HDFC debit or credit card
- Unbelievable deals, reward points, and cashback on hotel booking, flights, trains, and buses
- Discounts and offers on mobile recharge, DTH recharge, healthcare purchases, movie bookings, bill payments, and more,
2. AXIS Bank
Axis Bank is ranking high in terms of cash backs and rewards. Being an Axis account holder or a credit card user, you will get access to a plethora of incredible deals, offers, cashback, and discounts from multiple brands across different categories.
There is also limited period offers that run on the website every now and then that you should not miss.
- Cashbacks, reward points, and instant vouchers on shopping via Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, Boat, Jockey, Ajio, Croma, Libas, Lifestyle, etc
- Offers banking channels for opening accounts, taking loans, depositing money, updating cards, paying taxes, making payments, starting SIPs, and more
- Dining, travelling, hotel booking offers and discounts
- Loyalty points on every shopping via Axis bank that you can use later for making a purchase or booking a service
- Free lounge access, fuel surcharge waiver, and welcome gifts to Axis card users
Note – There is no upper limit on the maximum cashback, as it depends on how frequently you shop.
3. HSBC Bank
HSBC offers various Cashback via Credit Card usage; having wide spending will fetch you earn bigger cashback. On HSBC Cashback Credit Card, users get the liberty to shop irrespective of the particular website, hence no limitations on earning rewards.
Shopping online for various categories like lifestyle, travel, shopping, food, and more results in great cashback. There is no capping on earning cashback; it totally depends on your spending on online shopping.
- Multiple offers and discounts for HSBC cardholders on shopping for groceries, electronics, home decor, healthcare, etc.
- International offers on flights and hotels, complimentary lounge access, hotel room upgrades, discount on travel expenses, etc. with HSBC travel credit card
- HSBC Premier customers get discounts on leading healthcare institutions, hotels, luxury accommodations, etc.
- Complimentary breakfast, golf privileges, free WiFi, airport lounge access, fuel surcharge waiver, university or course discounts, etc.
- Credit card rewards on airlines and hotel bookings
4. Citibank
Citibank is a subsidiary of financial services multinational Citigroup. While this bank is highly known for its wide array of financial services, it is equally regarded for its cashback and rewards.
For increasing your savings, the bank provides several cash rebates, bigger cashback, instant discounts, and multiple other benefits all year long.
- Cashback and vouchers on movie tickets, telephone and utility bill payments, online shopping, and flight bookings
- Exclusive discounts on Citibank’s partner restaurants across the globe
- Convert high-ticket purchases into easy EMIs with Axis bank credit and debit cards along with discounts on repayment
5. Standard Chartered Bank
A British multinational banking and financial services company, Standard Chartered Bank is the oldest foreign bank in the country. In addition to multiple banking and finance services, this bank facilitates its cardholders with exclusive discounts and offers.
You can enjoy cash back, rewards, discounts, and coupons on every purchase or booking, or transaction to increase your savings.
- Host of offers and discounts across travel, dining, shopping, entertainment bookings, bill payments, etc., on using Standard Chartered credit card and debit card.
- Reward points on carrying out any transaction via savings account like in-store and e-commerce payments, bill payments, registering for standing instructions, etc.
- Bonus points on top of reward points on making a purchase or booking a service from partner brands
- Hand-picked offers, free subscriptions, and the best discounts across educational, entertainment, healthcare, fitness, and home decor platforms
Best Banks for FD in India
- RBL Bank
- SBI Bank
- Yes Bank
- HDFC Bank
- ICICI Bank
Have a detailed look at all these banks:
1. RBL Bank
RBL Bank offers its customers different fixed deposit schemes along with a host of exclusive benefits and best-in-class interest rates.
By parking your hard-earned money in RBL’s FD, you can enjoy higher returns without worrying about market fluctuations.
RBL Fixed Deposit Schemes:
- Flexi Sure Fixed Deposits
- Senior Citizen Fixed Deposits
- Regular Fixed Deposits
- Recurring Deposits
- Tax Savings Fixed Deposits
Silent Features Of RBL Bank FD:
- Interest up to 6.65% for the general public and 7.15% for senior citizens on FD deposits of less than Rs 2 Crore
- FD tenure varies between 7 days to 20 years
- Start your FD with RBL with a minimum amount of Rs 10,000
- An auto-renewal facility is available for ease of continuing deposits
- The Depositors can nominate beneficiaries for their Fixed Deposit
2. SBI Bank
State Bank of India is considered the largest public sector bank in India. This bank offers exclusive interest rates on depositing your money in fixed deposits.
Along with this, you can also avail multiple benefits for enhancing your experience. It is a safe and easy way of growing your money.
Salient features of SBI Bank FD:
- The general public can earn interest of up to 5.50% on their FD, and up to 6.30% can be earned by senior citizens
- Tenure of SBI Fixed Deposit is seven days to ten years
- FD can be started with a minimum deposit of Rs 1,000 with no maximum limit
- All SBI bank FDs can be withdrawn prematurely with a 0.5%-1% penalty
- SBI FD has an auto-renewal option and nomination facility
- Loan against FD and get up to 90% of the deposit amount
3. HDFC Bank
HDFC is India’s largest private sector lender that offers impressive interest rates on FD. Customers can use both online and offline modes to start with their deposits.
You will get multiple deposit schemes, flexible tenure, and a choice of the deposit amount for safe and assured earning.
HDFC Fixed Deposit Schemes:
- Regular Fixed Deposits
- HDFC Bank SureCover FD
- HDFC Bank HealthCover FD
- Five-Year Tax Saving Fixed Deposit
- FCNR Deposits
- Non-withdrawable Deposits
Salient features of HDFC Bank FD:
- Interest up to 5.75% for the general public and 6.50% for senior citizens on HDFC Fixed Deposit
- HDFC FD can be opened for a deposit of Rs 5,000 and can go up to Rs 5 Crore
- FD tenure of HDFC bank varies from 7 to 10 years
- HDFC bank offers loans against the FD of up to 90% of the deposit amount
- FDs can be withdrawn prematurely except for tax-saving FDs
4. YES bank
YES bank is a renowned private-sector Indian bank that offers high-interest rates and multiple benefits for securing money with Fixed deposits.
The bank also provides reward points to customers on starting their FD journey with it. With better returns, security, and convenience, Yes Bank is the perfect choice for saving your money.
Yes Bank Fixed Deposit Schemes:
- Yes Respect Fixed Deposits
- Yes Respect Plus Fixed Deposits
- Tax Saver Fixed Deposits
- Yes Bank Fixed Deposits
Salient features of Yes Bank FD:
- Up to 6.50% interest rate for the general public and 7.25% for senior citizens
- The minimum amount for creating an FD with Yes bank is Rs 10,000
- Yes Bank FD tenure ranges from 7 Days to 10 Years
- Yes bank presents loans against the FD of up to 90% of the principal deposit
- Customers can prematurely withdraw their investments at a penalty
- YES Bank permits investors to start their FD through online or offline methods
5. ICICI Bank
ICICI Bank is a leading private sector bank in India that offers a wide range of banking and financial products and services, and Fixed Deposits are one of those.
FD by ICICI bank is a great choice for earning assured returns and meeting your goals. The bank offers attractive interest rates with flexible tenure for a safe investment.
ICICI Bank Fixed Deposit Schemes:
- Regular Fixed Deposits
- Golden years fixed deposit
- Money Multiplier FD
- Flexi Fixed Deposit
- Tax Saver Fixed Deposits
Salient features of ICICI FD:
- A user can earn up to 5.75% interest on Fixed Deposit. However, a senior citizen can enjoy additional returns up to 6.50% on a deposit of Rs 2 Crore or less
- You can appoint a nominee for your fixed deposit account
- One can invest in ICICI FDs through online and offline modes with a minimum investment of Rs 10,000
- The tenure of an ICICI FD ranges from 7 days to 10 years
- ICICI FDs can be withdrawn prematurely except for tax-saving FDs
You can explore other best banks for FD in India.
Best Banks for Customer Service
- Axis Bank
- ICICI Bank
- IDFC First Bank
- Induslnd Bank
- Citi Bank
Let’s deep dive into the details of these best customer service banks:
1. Axis Bank
Being one of the best private sector banks in India, the customer service of the bank is worth appreciating. The bank provides the customers with an option to choose from multiple modes to reach out to the executive. You can reach out to them via:
- Branch
- Virtual Instant Chat
- Phone Call
- Social Media Platforms
- Mobile App
Apart from this, you can also submit your query on their website or find the answer to your question in the FAQ section.
2. ICICI Bank
From filing a complaint to knowing the product to getting started with a service to reporting suspicious activity, ICICI customer care service has got you covered. ICICI bank is known for providing excellent support through different mediums.
Whether you are an NRI or a domestic customer, here are some of the ways to get in touch with the executives of ICICI or fix your query:
- Customer care number
- Visiting a branch
- Reading FAQs
- Writing an email
3. IDFC First Bank
Whether you are an existing customer or looking forward to starting your baking journey, IDFC is always there to help you.
They are available 24*7, all days throughout the year, to provide you with the required assistance. Some of the ways to get in touch are:
- Make a call
- Write a complaint
- Visit a bank branch
- Add a query to the email
4. Induslnd Bank
You can easily connect to IndusInd Bank to get your query, complaint, or feedback addressed. They will help you with all the baking chores and guide you through the process in order to enhance your experience.
For giving you convenience and comfort, they have a series of communication channels that you can use 24*7. The available assistance channels are:
- Calling or requesting a call
- Chatting with the personnel online
- Visiting a representative office
- Sending a query email
- Browsing through FAQs
Unlike other banks, IndusInd allows you to have a face-to-face conversation with the representatives without actually visiting the branch through a Video Branch Call. By requesting this service, you will receive a video call from the bank to get your query fixed.
5. Citibank
Citi Help is the one-stop destination for all your queries and complaints. The bank executives are available round the clock and seven days a week to help you with the right solution.
Whether you want to provide feedback, get information about the product or just wish to reach out to the team, here are some of the feasible methods:
- Instant response through virtual query assistant
- Emergency service numbers
- Filling out the form
- Exploring blogs, FAQs, and bank videos
Other Best banks in India
- Bank of Maharashtra
- Bank of Baroda
- Union Bank of India
- Canara Bank
- Bank of India
- Indian Overseas Bank
- Central Bank of India
Bottom Line
If you plan on opening an account this year or starting off with any banking or financial service, it’s best to learn about different banks. Choosing a reputed bank with a long record of returns and trust, such as ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, SBI Bank, Canara Bank, Axis Bank, etc., is the key to enjoying a safe banking experience.
While there are 30+ banks in India, some of them are known to be the best and most trustworthy based on different factors. Above-given is the list of some of the trusted banks in the country and the area they specialised in.
FAQs
Which is the best bank in India?
While there is no particular bank to get the title of the best bank in India, there are different banks specialising in different segments. However, HDFC is known to be the largest private bank by assets, Axis is renowned for its customer service, and SBI is famous for being the safest bet and greater returns.
Which is the safest bank in India?
Nationalised banks, wherein the Indian government holds a majority stake, are considered to be the safest banks in India. Due to the strong government backing, they are the right choice for risk-free banking.
Which is the fastest-growing bank in India?
IDFC First Bank, HDFC Bank, and DBS Digibank are some of the fastest-growing private banks in India. Their financials have been growing at a rapid pace and are expected to continue to do so.
Which is the second largest bank in India?
The second-largest bank by market capitalisation in India is ICICI Bank.
How many nationalised banks are there in India?
There are 12 nationalised banks presently, as of July 2022, in India.
Which bank is the largest public sector bank in India?
Presently, SBI Bank is the most extensive public sector bank and the biggest lender in the country.
Which bank is the largest private sector in India?
HDFC is India’s largest private sector bank; as of March 2021, the bank has an asset value of more than Rs 15 trillion.
How many sorts of commercial banks do we have in India?
In the financial world, a commercial bank is an institution that receives deposits from the public and grants loans to consumers and businesses. Further, the two types of commercial banks in India are scheduled and non-scheduled commercial banks.