SBI Reaffirms Physical Branches as Core Amid Digital Expansion

State Bank of India has reaffirmed that physical banking will remain a core pillar of its growth strategy even as it sharpens its digital expansion efforts, according to Chairman C.S. Setty in the bank’s FY26 annual report. The country’s largest lender said it plans to combine the strength of its extensive branch network with digital platforms to create a seamless omni‑channel banking experience for customers, integrating relationship‑led service with digital convenience.

The “Digital First, Customer First” strategy will see continued investment in technology, data analytics, AI, cybersecurity and digital infrastructure, with initiatives like Project SARAL aimed at process re‑engineering, standardisation and automation. Setty also emphasised that strengthening the liability franchise and customer engagement will remain strategic priorities, with physical branches playing a critical role alongside digital channels as SBI navigates the future of banking.

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