Net FDI into India nearly doubles to $6.2 billion in April–October FY26 as repatriation declines

Net foreign direct investment (FDI) into India rose sharply to $6.2 billion during April–October FY26, almost doubling from $3.3 billion in the same period last year, primarily due to a decline in repatriation even as outward investments increased, according to the Reserve Bank of India’s latest Monthly Bulletin.

During the seven-month period, FDI inflows remained higher than the previous year in both gross and net terms. Gross inward FDI edged up to $58.3 billion in April–October FY26 from $50.5 billion a year earlier. The RBI noted that inflows remained steady in October, with Singapore, Mauritius and the United States together accounting for over 70 per cent of total investments.

Repatriation during April–October fell to $31.65 billion from $33.2 billion in the corresponding period last year. At the same time, outward FDI rose to $20.5 billion, compared with $14.06 billion a year ago, reflecting higher overseas investments by Indian companies.

As per the RBI’s “State of the Economy” report, financial services attracted over 60 per cent of total FDI inflows, followed by manufacturing, electricity and communication services.

However, net FDI turned negative in October due to elevated repatriation and outward FDI. Repatriation stood at nearly $5 billion in October, slightly lower than $5.4 billion a year ago, while outward FDI increased to $3.90 billion from $1.89 billion in the same month last year.