NBFC in India: A Sector Driving Financial Access and Growth

Introduction

The Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) in India have emerged as a cornerstone sector of the country’s financial ecosystem over the past few decades. The sector plays a pivotal role in extending credit and financial services to sectors and regions that traditional banks often overlook. As of 2023, the asset size of NBFCs in India reached USD 326 billion, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 15% over the past few years. This impressive growth reflects the increasing demand for NBFC services and the sector’s ability to cater to niche markets. This blog explores the rise of NBFCs in India, their importance to the country, their impact on untapped regions, and the current employment and hiring trends within the sector.

Importance of NBFC in India

NBFCs in India have grown significantly over the past few decades, driven by the need to cater to underserved markets. While traditional banks focus on a broad range of financial services, the NBFC sector has carved out a niche by innovating and offering specialized financial products like hire purchase, leasing, asset management, and microfinance. NBFCs are instrumental in promoting financial inclusion in India by reaching out to unbanked and underbanked populations. By providing services to businesses and individuals that lack access to traditional banking, the sector plays a key role in bridging the financial gap.

Supporting MSMEs

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) form the backbone of the Indian economy, and NBFCs in India play a crucial role in providing credit to these enterprises. MSMEs often struggle to secure loans from traditional banks due to stringent lending criteria. By offering flexible and accessible financing options, the NBFC sector helps MSMEs grow and contribute to economic development.

Technological Innovation

NBFCs leverage digital platforms and technology to make loan applications faster and easier. For example, Artificial Intelligence (AI) helps quickly check credit scores and approve loans within minutes. Machine Learning (ML) analyzes financial behavior to offer personalized loans, like lower interest rates for good credit scores. Many NBFCs also have mobile apps for applying for loans, checking balances, and making payments. These technologies help NBFCs serve customers better, making financial services more personalized and accessible.

Impact on Untapped Regions

NBFCs in India have successfully penetrated rural and semi-urban areas, where traditional banks have limited reach. By offering financial services, including savings and investment opportunities, in these underserved regions, they bridge the urban-rural divide and provide vital credit to farmers, small businesses, and individuals, driving economic growth. This expansion has also led to a surge in NBFC jobs, creating employment in sales, operations, and customer service, while also increasing temp staffing for flexible employment options.

NBFCs offer customized financial products like microfinance, vehicle loans, and agricultural loans to meet local needs. These products support underserved communities and foster inclusive growth. Additionally, the sector boosts local economies by creating jobs and promoting entrepreneurship through skill development and financial support.

Employment and Hiring Trends

The NBFC sector in India is expected to witness significant employment growth, with a projected net increase of 5.41% in the first half of FY25. This growth is driven by expansion plans and the need to cater to a growing customer base. According to the Employment Outlook Report H1FY25, 65% of NBFCs in India plan to increase their workforce, highlighting the sector’s dynamic growth and its pivotal role in extending credit to MSMEs.

Challenges and Opportunities

While NBFCs in India have made significant strides, they also face challenges such as regulatory changes and funding constraints. However, the opportunities for growth are immense. Strategic partnerships with traditional banks, leveraging technology, and focusing on underserved markets can help the sector continue its upward trajectory. This growth not only enhances the sector’s role in India’s financial landscape but also creates numerous opportunities for NBFC careers, offering diverse roles and fostering professional development.

The BFSI sector is currently grappling with a significant demand-supply mismatch. There is a pressing need for skilled professionals who can adapt to the industry’s evolving requirements, yet the existing workforce often lacks the specialized skills necessary for emerging roles. To address this challenge and bridge the talent gap, it’s essential to focus on training and preparing job seekers to become industry-ready. By investing in targeted upskilling and reskilling programs, particularly for fresh graduates eager to enter the sector, companies can expand their talent pool. This proactive approach not only helps bridge the current demand-supply gap but also ensures a steady influx of adaptable, skilled professionals poised to drive growth and innovation within the BFSI sector.

Conclusion

NBFCs are indispensable to the country’s financial ecosystem, particularly in untapped regions. The sector’s ability to provide flexible, accessible, and innovative financial solutions makes it crucial for promoting financial inclusion and driving economic growth. Moreover, NBFCs are significant contributors to employment generation, creating job opportunities across various levels, from urban centers to the most remote areas. As the sector continues to evolve and expand, it will play an even more vital role not only in shaping the future of the country’s financial landscape but also in contributing to the overall socioeconomic development by fostering job creation and supporting livelihoods.

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Author

Krishnendu Chatterjee

Vice President and Business Head
TeamLease Services Limited

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