RBL Bank Shares Surge as CEO of Former HDFC Veteran Likely to Take CFO Role

RBL Bank Shares Surge as CEO of Former HDFC Veteran Likely to Take CFO Role​

Shares of RBL Bank experienced a sharp rally in early trading, breaching their 52-week high after reports surfaced suggesting the lender is set to appoint a veteran executive from HDFC Bank as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The news provided a significant boost to investor sentiment regarding the bank's leadership transition.

Stock Jumps on Potential CFO Appointment​

RBL Bank shares climbed sharply, trading up over 2 percent in early trade on Thursday. The stock reached a fresh 52-week high of Rs 364.75 on the National Stock Exchange (NSE). At one point during trading at 9:58 am, the share was seen trading at Rs 363.90, reflecting an increase of Rs 7.65 or 2.14 percent.

The substantial gains were driven by sources indicating that Bhavin Lakhpatwala is highly likely to be appointed as RBL Bank’s CFO. This potential move involves a key leadership transition within the private sector lender.

Leadership Changes at RBL Bank and HDFC Bank​

Lakhpatwala, who recently stepped down from his role at HDFC Bank, has been identified as a leading candidate for the position. His appointment would see him replacing Deepak Ruiya, who has been serving as the CFO on an interim basis since December 2025.

The timeline for Lakhpatwala's joining RBL Bank remains unclear, however. Sources have indicated that a formal announcement could be made in the coming weeks. It is important to note that this appointment is conditional upon approval from both the bank’s board and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Professional Background of Key Personnel​

Bhavin Lakhpatwala possesses extensive experience within the financial sector. He previously held senior positions at HDFC Bank, where he last served as Senior Executive Vice President. He began his tenure with the private sector lender in 2011 and has accumulated various leadership roles during that period. Before joining HDFC Bank, Lakhpatwala worked with Deloitte and Ageas Federal Life Insurance.

The move comes amidst a series of leadership adjustments at RBL Bank. Deepak Ruiya, who had served as Deputy CFO since March 2023, assumed the interim role after Buvanesh Tharashankar resigned from the bank in December 2025 to pursue opportunities outside the organization.

Official Statements Pending​

As yet, there has been no official statement released by RBL Bank or HDFC Bank regarding the potential appointment of Bhavin Lakhpatwala to the CFO position at RBL Bank. Investors are advised to monitor official disclosures for further clarity on this significant organizational change.