Axis Bank reported a 26% year-on-year fall in net profit during Q2, hurt by higher provisions and a drop in trading income. Net interest income crept up ~2%, but margin pressure and elevated provisioning offset gains. The bank’s gross NPA improved sequentially, though asset quality still faces scrutiny. Investors will watch whether easing interest rate cycles and cost control can revive profitability in coming quarters. The results also triggered gains in other private banking names, boosting market sentiment.