RBI Cuts Repo Rate by 50bps Amid Slowing Inflation, Signals Neutral Stance

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) slashed its key repo rate by 50 basis points to 5.50% on Friday, delivering a larger-than-expected cut in a continued effort to stimulate economic growth. This marks the third straight rate cut in 2025, totaling a 100 basis point reduction since February—the first easing cycle since May 2020.

The RBI also reduced the cash reserve ratio (CRR) by 100 basis points to 3%, injecting additional liquidity into the banking system. The decision comes as retail inflation eases sharply, dropping to a six-year low of 3.16% in April—well below the central bank’s medium-term target of 4%. The RBI now forecasts average inflation at 3.7% for the current fiscal year, down from its earlier estimate of 4%.

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra emphasized that the drop in inflation created room to "front load" rate cuts and continue policy easing. The monetary policy stance has shifted from “accommodative” to “neutral,” signaling a more balanced approach moving forward.

Market reaction was mixed. India’s 10-year bond yield dipped to 6.18%, while the rupee remained steady at 85.82. Equity markets, initially buoyed by the rate cut, reversed gains and edged down by about 0.1%.

Despite a strong 7.4% GDP growth in the January–March quarter, the RBI maintained its annual growth forecast at 6.5%, underscoring the need for policy support to sustain momentum. India’s economy, though resilient, is targeting even higher growth.

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), comprising three RBI officials and three external members, unanimously agreed to the latest rate decision, reflecting a shared commitment to growth amid a favorable inflation backdrop.