Private banks go for a tumble on D-St after Q1 stumble

Most private lender stocks declined Monday after first-quarter earnings showed profitability pressures. Axis Bank and HDFC Bank saw significant drops, while ICICI Bank gained. Analysts noted margin compression as a key factor affecting banking stocks. Foreign investors returned to financials after substantial withdrawals earlier in the year. ICICI Bank remains a top pick among leading private sector lenders.