DBS Bank India launches ‘DBS Aspire’ for emerging affluent customers with global lifestyle needs

DBS Bank India has introduced a new banking proposition, ‘DBS Aspire’, aimed at India’s rapidly growing segment of emerging affluent customers—those who are increasingly global in their lifestyle but still building their wealth.

The offering is designed for individuals with a total relationship value of ₹10 lakh or those maintaining a monthly average balance of ₹2 lakh. With this, the bank is positioning itself as a long-term financial partner for customers transitioning from mass banking to premium wealth management.

As more Indians travel abroad for work, education, and business, their banking expectations are also evolving. Many now seek personalised services, global usability, and seamless digital access. DBS Aspire aims to address this shift by combining relationship-based banking with strong digital capabilities.

One of the key highlights of the proposition is the DBS Aspire debit card, which comes with zero forex mark-up on international transactions—an attractive feature for frequent travellers and global spenders. Additionally, customers will not be charged for regular banking services and transactions under this programme.

The bank is also offering a dedicated Relationship Manager—typically reserved for high-net-worth clients—bringing a more personalised touch to everyday banking. On the savings front, customers can earn an interest rate of up to 5% per annum on balances between ₹2 lakh and ₹50 lakh, which is higher than what many traditional banks currently offer.

Customers will also get access to ‘digiportfolio’, DBS’s digital investment platform, allowing them to manage and grow their investments with ease.

Speaking on the launch, Ambuj Chandna, Managing Director & Head of Consumer Banking Group at DBS Bank India, said that the bank identified a clear gap in the market. According to him, most banking products are either designed for the mass segment or for high-net-worth individuals, leaving the emerging affluent category largely underserved.

He added that DBS Aspire is built to bridge this gap by offering both value-driven and aspirational benefits, supported by the bank’s advanced digital ecosystem.

The new proposition complements DBS’s existing premium offering, DBS Treasures, which caters to customers with a relationship value of ₹30 lakh and above, providing more advanced wealth management services.

With DBS Aspire, the bank is looking to strengthen its presence across over 350 locations in India, while tapping into a segment that is expected to play a key role in the country’s financial growth story.