RBI hosts Samvad 2026 in Delhi to target monetary policy, AI and financial stability

The Reserve Bank of India commenced its international seminar, Samvad 2026, in New Delhi on Monday, bringing together central bank governors, regulatory authorities, and financial sector leaders from across the world. The two-day conference serves as a key forum for global monetary authorities to coordinate on macroeconomic challenges and modern tech integration.

Driving the global financial discourse

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra opened the summit with a welcome address highlighting the central bank's focus on maintaining stability while fostering digital innovation. Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of resilient institutional frameworks, inclusive growth, and international cooperation across financial systems.

Delegates in attendance include central bank governors and deputy governors, officials from multilateral development institutions, and leaders from the global financial services industry. The gathering reflects India's expanding role in shaping international regulatory dialogue and economic stability measures.

Key focus areas at Samvad 2026

Deliberations across the two-day event cover critical pillars of modern central banking:

• Monetary policy frameworks: Strategies for navigating changing economic conditions and price stability.
• Artificial Intelligence in finance: Leveraging emerging technologies while mitigating operational risks.
• Financial inclusion: Expanding access to formal banking through digital solutions.
• Payment systems evolution: Strengthening cross-border infrastructure and transaction security.
• Financial stability: Safeguarding systemic resilience against global shocks.

International participants, including representation from regional central banks such as Sri Lanka, are exchanging operational lessons on maintaining price stability and digital adoption. The RBI stated that the event offers a platform to share best practices as central banks navigate rapid technological transformations in the global economy.