UPI Merchant Discount Rate Proposal Nears Finalization with Banks to Receive Largest Share
The government is expected to soon notify a merchant discount rate (MDR) framework for Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions, potentially set at 40 basis points (0.4%). Under the proposed structure, issuing banks would retain 40% of the fee, while third-party app providers and acquiring banks would each receive 30%. The MDR would apply to merchant transactions above Rs 2,000 and businesses with annual turnover between Rs 1-1.5 crore, with possible sector-based variations. The National Payments Corporation of India is finalizing the modalities, and a formal notification is anticipated shortly.
First-hand measurement across 2 sources
We measured how 2 outlets covered this story. No outlet gave this story a measurable political slant — there is no left–right reading to report. Overall sentiment is neutral (52/100). Lens Score 47/100.
Outlets measured: economictimes, economictimes. See how each one headlined and framed the same story in the source comparison below.
AI Analysis
Sentiment was consistent across outlets (50–52/100), indicating broadly factual reporting rather than editorialising.
Coverage timeline
economictimes broke this story on 11 Sept, 12:24 am. Other outlets followed.