NBFC (Non-Banking Financial Company)

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DEFINITION

NBFCs are companies registered under the Companies Act that engage in financial activities — loans, investments, asset financing, insurance — but are not banks. They cannot accept demand deposits (savings/current accounts) but can accept fixed deposits.

NBFCs play a crucial role in India’s credit system, especially for underserved segments — MSMEs, self-employed, and borrowers in smaller cities. They often have more flexible eligibility criteria than banks but may charge slightly higher rates. Major NBFCs include Bajaj Finance, Piramal Capital, PNB Housing, and others. Housing Finance Companies (HFCs) are a sub-category focused on home loans.

Since 2020, RBI has progressively tightened NBFC regulations, bringing them closer to banking standards for consumer protection and risk management.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How are NBFCs different from banks?
NBFCs cannot accept demand deposits (savings/current accounts), cannot issue cheques, and are not part of the payment system. But they provide loans, investments, and other financial services.
Are NBFC loans safe?
Yes, if the NBFC is registered with RBI and follows regulatory guidelines. Check RBI's list of registered NBFCs. They are regulated for consumer protection.
Why are NBFC interest rates sometimes higher?
NBFCs borrow funds at higher costs than banks (no access to low-cost deposits). This cost is passed to borrowers. However, their flexible criteria serve borrowers banks may reject.

WHY IT MATTERS

NBFCs are major lending partners especially for MSME and self-employed borrowers. Understanding their role, advantages, and differences from banks helps borrowers make better lender choices.

HOW NIHAL FINTECH USES IT

Nihal Fintech partners with both banks and NBFCs, giving clients access to a wider range of products. We help clients choose between bank and NBFC options based on eligibility, rates, and flexibility.

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