How Are NBFCs Tackling RBI’s Stance On Unsecured Loans?

Nicky Sharma
3 min readJan 25, 2024

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Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) are currently standing at a crucial juncture, strategically devising methods to maneuver around the regulatory directives imposed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) concerning unsecured loans. As someone interested in numbers, seeing how NBFCs adapt to this evolving regulatory landscape holds a particular fascination for me.

The RBI’s regulations on unsecured loans pose a challenging backdrop, compelling NBFCs to reevaluate and reshape their strategies. The landscape is transforming, with NBFCs leading the charge, formulating innovative approaches to align with these regulatory shifts. The numerical intricacies involved in these adaptations not only showcase the resilience of these financial entities but also highlight their strategic thinking as they navigate through this evolving regulatory maze.

Understanding The RBI Rules

The latest guidelines from the RBI highlight a need for careful consideration when dealing with loans lacking collateral. This shift has led to a decrease in unsecured lending, prompting NBFCs to devise strategies to address the situation. Unsecured loans, like personal loans or credit card debt, lack backing from any assets. The RBI’s directive necessitates lenders to implement extra security measures, aiming to safeguard consumers from potential fraud and identity theft.

Also Read: The Power Of NBFC Co-Branded Credit Cards

Facing Challenges

Abhay Bhutada, Managing Director of Poonawalla Fincorp, confidently leading the financial institution with vision and expertise.

Cost Of Funds For NBFCs

For companies like Poonawalla Fincorp, the impact of the RBI rules is different. Abhay Bhutada, MD of the company, says, “We don’t see any impact of this RBI circular, we are getting an advantage.” This is because many other companies are struggling to get money, giving Poonawalla Fincorp a chance to help those who need more than ₹50,000. The real problem is for those dealing with smaller amounts, below ₹50,000.

Jairam Sridharan is the MD of Piramal Capital & Housing Finance Limited (PCHFL)

Opportunities Amid Challenges

Jairam Sridharan, who runs Piramal Housing Finance Ltd, adds to the conversation, saying that the slowdown is because of signals from the RBI. This means banks are being told to be careful when lending to NBFCs to reduce risks. This careful approach supports the RBI’s goal of having a strong and safe financial system.

Also Read: Unraveling The Intricacies Of Cost Of Funds And Cost Of Borrowing

Strategic Responses

Focus On Larger Ticket Sizes

NBFCs, like Poonawalla Fincorp, are responding by focusing on loans above ₹50,000. This fits with what the rules want — less risk in smaller loans. By doing this, they are not just handling the challenges; they are also becoming providers of more significant financial solutions.

Enhanced Due Diligence

Because the rules make things more complicated, NBFCs are being extra careful when deciding who to give loans to. They are being more thorough in checking if people can pay back the money. This helps them show regulators and investors that they are responsible.

Even though things might look tough for NBFCs, investors like Warren Buffett often find good chances during uncertain times. Buffett’s famous saying, “Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful,” suggests making smart moves when things are tough. As NBFCs adjust their plans, there might be opportunities for clever investors to find promising areas.

Future Outlook

Once the new rules settle in, NBFCs are likely to come out stronger. They are adapting to the changes, focusing on larger loans and being more careful in choosing who gets loans. Abhay Bhutada’s positive outlook, despite the challenges, shows that NBFCs can handle rule changes well.

Also Read: How Maintaining Asset Quality Helped Abhay Bhutada Led Poonawalla Fincorp Show Strong Numbers

Conclusion

In the always-changing world of finance, where things are never the same for too long, NBFCs aren’t just reacting to the RBI’s new rules; they are carefully moving through the changes. Stories from industry leaders show how NBFCs are turning challenges into opportunities. This adaptability reminds me that being resilient and smart is crucial for success in a changing market.

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Nicky Sharma

Finance student navigating the world of numbers and markets. My journey of exploration is accompanied by musical hits and fashion goals.