HDFC, ICICI, Axis Bank, Bajaj Finance, Shriram Finance: Are the Big Boys of Wealth Creation Making a Comeback?

After a prolonged phase of underperformance, some of the most prominent names in India’s financial sector—HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Bajaj Finance, and Shriram Finance—may finally be staging a strong comeback. For the past three years, these major players, often referred to as the Big Boys of banking and NBFC space, have seen lacklustre market action. But things appear to be changing.

Investor sentiment is shifting, especially after Monday’s market reaction to Q4 earnings, which has revived hopes that these blue-chip financial stocks are ready to reclaim their old glory. The earnings season often holds the power to reshape narratives, and this time, it seems to be working in favour of these heavyweights.

There was a time when institutional investors proudly spoke about spotting multi-bagger opportunities in stocks like HDFC Bank and Bajaj Finance. These stocks were once the gold standard of consistent wealth creation. Now, after a period of consolidation and muted performance, the probability of these stocks rediscovering their momentum looks promising.

The key focus is now on quarterly performance and guidance, as market watchers closely evaluate whether the fundamentals align with the recent optimism. If the results stay on track, these legacy financial institutions could again become investor favourites, especially in an environment where stability and growth are being highly valued.

With macroeconomic indicators showing signs of recovery and investor appetite for quality financial stocks improving, the buzz around these Big Boys is building up once again. Whether they will deliver another round of long-term wealth creation is yet to be seen, but the sentiment in Dalal Street seems to be tilting in their favour.