HDFC Bank, India’s leading private sector bank, has become the first domestic bank to execute a gold forward deal from GIFT City.
The deal was executed by HDFC Bank, IFSC Banking Unit (IBU), GIFT City in collaboration with Hindustan Platinum, a global refiner and manufacturer of high purity precious metal products and industrial services.
The regulators have enabled onshore entities with gold price exposure to hedge their risk through GIFT City.
Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) is a smart city and financial services centre in the Gandhinagar district of Gujarat, India.
It is a hub for financial and IT companies, and is home to India’s first International Financial Services Centre (IFSC).
HDFC Bank is committed to be a part of the development of the GIFT City bullion ecosystem. The Bank’s IBU in GIFT City serves as a trading and clearing member on the Indian International Bullion Exchange (IIBX).
Arup Rakshit, Group Head – Treasury, HDFC Bank said, “We are delighted to announce the successful execution of the first gold forward deal from GIFT City. This achievement underscores our commitment to leveraging the opportunities offered by GIFT City to deliver innovative and efficient financial solutions.”
HDFC Bank will endeavour to provide tailored hedging solutions to the gems and jewellery sector, as well as various industrial sectors, to effectively manage their risks, he added.
HDFC Bank, a nominated agency, is in the process of becoming a special category client on IIBX and is now offering gold and silver forwards from GIFT City.