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Experian India has unveiled a new white paper titled "Small is BIG: How Fintechs are Revolutionising Lending". The report highlights the rapidly growing role of fintech companies in providing small-ticket loans to underserved segments of the population, demonstrating how technology is revolutionizing the lending landscape in India.

The white paper reveals that fintech companies have facilitated over Rs 2,48,006 Crores of Personal Loan and Rs 28,607 Crores Business Loans as of March 2024. These loans, often under Rs 50,000, have primarily reached New-to-Credit (NTC) individuals, those with thin credit files, and sub-prime borrowers, many of whom were previously excluded from the formal financial system.

Fintech Impact on Financial Inclusion

According to the report, fintech companies have expanded their reach with a market share of 52% in personal loans, providing critical financial access to those who have historically been underserved. The penetration of fintech into rural and semi-urban areas has grown significantly. The penetration of personal loans has increased by 24% in Bihar, 21% in Tamil Nadu and 20% in Uttar Pradesh in FY’24 compared to FY ‘23. For Business loans, the growth rate is 133% in Karnataka, 118% in Uttar Pradesh and 67% Bihar for the same time period. This highlights the significant progress in financial inclusion in the country.

Asset Quality and Risk Management

The report also sheds light on the challenges fintech companies face, particularly in managing asset quality. It notes that while fintechs have been able to cater to high-risk segments, the Non-Performing Asset (NPA) ratio for fintech-originated loans stands higher than the industry average. This underscores the need for fintechs to enhance their risk management frameworks, especially when dealing with overleveraged customers. The white paper suggests that improved data analytics and more robust credit scoring models could help mitigate these risks.

Technological Innovation Driving Growth

A key finding in the white paper is the pivotal role of technology in driving the fintech revolution. The adoption of the latest technology and tools has enabled fintechs to significantly reduce loan approval time. Blockchain technology is also highlighted as a game-changer, particularly in enhancing transparency and reducing fraud in loan disbursement.

Moreover, the white paper points out that fintechs are leading the way in sectors like green finance, to support sustainable and environmentally friendly projects. Similarly, fintech companies have made significant inroads into the Agri-finance sector, helping to support millions of small farmers.

Government Support and Regulatory Environment

The white paper discusses the importance of the supportive regulatory environment in India, which has been crucial in enabling fintech growth. Initiatives like the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and regulatory sandboxes have provided fintechs with the opportunity to innovate and scale their operations while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The paper notes that the introduction of Account Aggregators and Open Credit Enablement Networks (OCEN) has further empowered fintech companies, allowing them to offer more personalized and inclusive financial products.

Future Outlook

Looking forward, the white paper suggests that fintech companies could potentially double their customer base to 200 million within the next three years if they continue to innovate and address current challenges. It also recommends that fintechs learn from the strategies of successful Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in India, particularly secured lending and exploring new market segments.

Manish Jain, Country Managing Director at Experian India, said, "The fintech revolution in India is just beginning, and there’s enormous potential for growth. Fintech companies have already made a big impact by providing credit to those who need it most, but there’s still more to be done. The insights in this white paper highlight both the opportunities and challenges ahead.

As we move forward, it’s essential for fintechs to maintain a delicate balance between innovation and responsibility. While the use of technologies like AI and machine learning allows for greater reach and efficiency, it also requires a strong framework for risk management. The financial ecosystem in India is evolving rapidly, and fintechs are at the heart of this transformation. They are not only helping to drive financial inclusion but also setting new standards for how credit is delivered in a digital age.

To sustain this momentum, collaboration will be key—between fintechs, traditional financial institutions, and regulators. Together, we can create a more inclusive and robust financial system that caters to every segment of society. This white paper serves as a valuable guide for all stakeholders, offering a roadmap to navigate the future of lending in India."