Commercial Banks Face Steeper Challenges
Commercial banks reported a staggering 62% rise in gold loan NPAs, which climbed to ₹2,445 crore in June 2024 from ₹1,513 crore in March 2024. Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) also faced significant challenges, with their NPAs increasing by 24%, from ₹3,636 crore to ₹4,251 crore during the same period.
Economic Slowdown Hits Borrowers
A report by The Indian Express highlights that the economic slowdown has strained household incomes, leaving many borrowers unable to repay their loans. Borrowers often pledged gold to meet essential expenses such as household needs, education fees, and medical bills. However, repayment challenges have grown due to reduced income levels.
Rising Gold Prices and Increased Borrowing
The rising price of gold has also driven more people to pledge their gold. As a result, the outstanding gold loans of banks surged to ₹1.54 trillion in October 2024, up from ₹1.02 trillion in March 2024.
Despite the challenges, gold loans remain popular for their attractive features, including no prepayment charges, flexible repayment options, and daily repayment facilities. Shaji Varghese, CEO of Muthoot Fincorp, noted that gold loans are increasingly seen as a reliable option for short-term financial needs and play a vital role in financial inclusion.
RBI Raises Concerns Over Sector Irregularities
The RBI has expressed concerns over irregularities in the gold loan sector. Weak monitoring of loan-to-value ratios, flawed risk assessments, and a lack of transparency in gold auctions have been identified as key issues. The central bank has urged lenders to tighten their processes and focus on improving financial literacy among borrowers.
Sector Growth Despite Challenges
Interestingly, the gold loan sector has continued to grow steadily. Between FY20 and FY24, organised gold loans expanded at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25%. Banks led this growth with a 26% CAGR, largely driven by agriculture loans secured against gold jewellery
Experts Call for Reforms
Experts emphasize the need for better credit assessment, borrower education, and more flexible repayment options to address the rising NPAs. These measures are essential to ensure sustainable growth in the sector while safeguarding both lenders and borrowers.
The gold loan sector’s challenges highlight the importance of robust financial systems and borrower awareness to manage risks effectively in a growing market.
No comments:
Post a Comment