The BSE Bankex is the flagship banking-sector index of the Bombay Stock Exchange, measuring the performance of leading public and private sector banks by free-float market capitalisation. Because banks are central to India's growth, the Bankex often moves with credit demand, interest rates, inflation and RBI monetary policy. It sits alongside broad benchmarks like the BSE Sensex and other sector indices such as BSE IT and BSE Auto.
What is the BSE Bankex?
The Bankex is a sector benchmark that tracks a diversified basket of India's major banks. It gives investors, traders and fund managers a single number to gauge the health and direction of the Indian banking sector.
Leading Bankex constituents
| Type | Example constituents |
|---|---|
| Private banks | HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, IndusInd Bank |
| Public sector banks | State Bank of India (SBI), Bank of Baroda, Punjab National Bank |
| Others | Federal Bank, IDFC First Bank, AU Small Finance Bank |
How is the Bankex calculated?
The Bankex uses the free-float market-capitalisation methodology — only shares available for public trading are considered, excluding promoter and restricted holdings. The constituent list is reviewed periodically to maintain liquidity, representation and sector relevance.
Why track the BSE Bankex?
- Understand overall banking-sector performance at a glance.
- Compare individual banking stocks against the sector benchmark.
- Monitor the impact of RBI policy, interest rates and credit growth.
- Benchmark banking-focused portfolios and identify opportunities.
How to invest in banking stocks
- Buy a banking-sector ETF or index fund for diversified exposure (see mutual funds & SIP).
- Invest in individual bank stocks through your demat account.
- Track charges before you trade with our brokerage & charges guide, then open a free ATS account.
BSE Bankex vs Nifty Bank
Both track the banking sector, but the Bankex is the BSE's index while the Nifty Bank is the NSE's. They overlap heavily in constituents and generally move in the same direction, so most investors use whichever their platform surfaces.
Explore other BSE indices
- BSE Sensex — India's benchmark 30-stock index — live value, constituents and analysis.
- BSE IT — The BSE technology index — India's top IT and software companies.
- BSE Auto — The BSE automobile index — carmakers, two-wheelers, EV and auto ancillaries.
- BSE MidCap — The BSE mid-cap index — emerging mid-sized companies with growth potential.