NBFC

**What is an NBFC? **

NBFC stands for Non–Banking Financial Institution. It is a financial institution that provides banking services such as loans and advances, credits, and investments but it does not have a banking license. It does not take demand deposits and does not issue cheques. There are no cheque books or savings accounts that are linked to NBFCs.

Important Characteristics of NBFC

• Loans and Advances: They provide credit services to the public as well as businesses.
• Investments: NBFC engages in the investment of securities as well as the leasing and hire purchase activities.
• No Demand Deposits: They cannot take in money which can be redeemed anytime, quite different from what is offered by banks.
• RBI Regulated: All NBFCs in India are subject to the rules and regulations of Reserve Bank of India

Types of NBFCs

1. Asset Finance Companies (AFCs): These NBFCs give finance for physical assets such as automobiles and machinery.
2. Investment Companies: These NBFCs mainly deal in acquisition of securities like shares and bonds etc.
3. Loan Companies: Provide loans to individuals and businesses.
4. Infrastructure Finance Companies (IFCs): Providing finances for infrastructure projects like power and irrigation.

Why NBFCs Companies are Significant in India?

1. Financial Inclusion: They serve the people and businesses in the rural and semi-urban areas, who may not be able to access financing from conventional banks.
2. Economic Growth: NBFCs cater for mortgage finance, business finance, and infrastructure finance thereby supporting the growth of India.
3. Flexibility: They offer more lenient terms of loans hence many people can be able to acquire the loans.

Some of the Notable NBFCs in India

• Bajaj Finance: Known for providing personal loans.
• HDFC Ltd: It deals mainly in housing finance.
• Muthoot Finance: It is primarily engaged in providing gold loans.

These NBFCs play a vital role in bridging the gap between traditional banking services and underserved communities.