The financial institution IndusInd Bank faces intense examination because it reported a ₹2,000 crore loss from foreign exchange derivative transactions. The private lender faces intense scrutiny from statutory auditors who demand clarification about whether the issue represents a technical error or a discrepancy or a complete fraud. The bank currently describes the situation as a ‘discrepancy’ yet faces increasing pressure to establish a definitive classification.
The financial losses emerged from different accounting approaches between internal forex trades which used accrual-based methods and external transactions that applied mark-to-market valuations. The inconsistent accounting methods resulted in both exaggerated past profits and delayed recognition of actual losses. A fraud declaration would force the company to disclose the matter to regulators and potentially the Ministry of Corporate Affairs through mandatory reporting under the Companies Act.
The forensic investigation conducted by Grant Thornton revealed possible insider trading activities among former top executives which has made the situation more complex. The CEO and Deputy CEO stepped down from their positions after taking responsibility for their actions. The Reserve Bank of India authorized an interim executive committee to manage the bank while Moody’s reduced the financial profile of the institution because of internal control breakdowns.
