New Delhi, Aug. 9 -- ICICI Bank has sharply raised its minimum average monthly balance requirement for new savings accounts starting August 1, 2025, triggering mixed reactions among customers.

The revised rules mean metro and urban account holders must now maintain a monthly average balance of Rs.50,000, up from the earlier Rs.10,000. For new semi-urban customers, the minimum balance increases to Rs.25,000 (previously Rs.5,000), and for rural accounts, it rises to Rs.10,000 (from Rs.5,000).

The new criteria apply only to accounts opened after August 1, leaving existing customers under the previous limits. Those unable to meet these requirements will face a penalty of 6% of the shortfall, or Rs.500--whichever is lower.

This move places ...