Peer-To-Peer (P2P) lending is a financial technology that allows people to lend and borrow money from each other, without going through a bank. India, over the decade, has seen significant innovation in the financial sector. P2P lending platforms in India provide a fresh start on how individuals and small businesses can access funding outside the traditional banking system.
The P2P lending in India, started back in the early 2010s, gaining attention as a response to the limitations of conventional banking. The lack of access to credit for many individuals and small businesses, coupled with burdensome loan approval processes, created a fruitful ground for P2P lending platforms to thrive. Today, several prominent P2P lending platforms operate in India, connecting borrowers with various individual lenders. Some popular P2P platforms are Faircent, Finzy, LenDenClub, and Lend Box, etc.Â
Key factors of P2P lending
- Broad Network– P2P lending in India has played a crucial role in catering financial services to those who are excluded or insufficient by traditional banks. Individuals with limited credit or without collateral can present their loan requests on these platforms, attracting potential lenders seeking diverse investment opportunities.
- Regulatory Framework- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recognised the importance of regulating the P2P lending sector to ensure consumer protection and financial stability. In 2017, the RBI released guidelines that defined the operational framework for P2P lending platforms, outlining registration requirements, permissible activities, and prudential norms. This regulatory clarity has provided a foundation for the growth of P2P lending while safeguarding the interests of both borrowers and lenders.
- Risk Moderation– P2P lending platforms in India employ sophisticated risk assessment models to evaluate the creditworthiness of borrowers. These models often include alternative data points, such as digital footprints and social media behaviour, to supplement traditional credit scoring methods. This comprehensive approach helps in making informed lending decisions and mitigating risks.
- Diverse Offerings– P2P lending platforms in India facilitate a wide range of loan types, from personal loans and education loans to small business loans. This diversity allows investors to choose loans that align with their risk tolerance and investment goals.
P2P lending has become a lifeline for the underprivileged populations in India. Individuals who lack a formal banking history or collateral now have an avenue to access credit through these platforms. Small and Medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often face challenges in securing loans from traditional banks. P2P lending platforms bridge this gap by providing a platform for SMEs to connect with individual lenders willing to support their ventures.
Peer-to-Peer lending has reframed the Indian financial landscape, breaking down traditional barriers to credit access and encouraging financial inclusion. As the sector continues to mature, collaboration between regulators, industry players, and other stakeholders will be instrumental in ensuring the sustainable growth of P2P lending in India. The innovative spirit of these platforms, coupled with a commitment to regulatory compliance, positions P2P lending as a vital component of India’s evolving financial ecosystem.
Resources
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/peer-to-peer-lending.asp
https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/wealth-management/peer-to-peer-lending/
https://www.cnbc.com/select/best-peer-to-peer-personal-loans/
https://groww.in/blog/how-does-peer-to-peer-p2p-lending-work
