RBI Issues a Notification on Enhanced Risk Weights for Consumer Credit and NBFC Exposures

Narendra Kumar

17 Nov, 2023

In the dynamic world of finance, regulatory changes are as inevitable as they are impactful. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its recent notification RBI/2023-24/85, has made significant revisions to the risk weights associated with consumer credit and bank credit to Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs). This directive, an echo of the Governor’s prior statements, reflects a cautious approach towards the burgeoning growth in consumer credit and the increasing reliance of NBFCs on bank borrowings. As we unpack this notification, we will explore its intricacies, its motivations, and its potential ripple effects across the financial sector.

The Impetus for Change

The RBI’s decision is rooted in a desire to curb risk concentrations and encourage sound risk management. The Governor’s previous statements highlighted a spike in consumer credit and a dependency of NBFCs on bank loans, sparking concerns over systemic risk and financial stability.

A. Consumer Credit Exposure

The central bank has increased the risk weight for consumer credit exposure for commercial banks by 25 percentage points, elevating it to 125%. This adjustment is a clear signal to banks to exercise greater caution and to allocate more capital against potential losses in personal loans, effectively tightening the credit valve.

For NBFCs, a similar hike in risk weight to 125% for retail loans, excluding certain categories like housing and vehicle loans, aims to align them with the enhanced risk perception in the consumer credit segment.

Credit card receivables have also been subjected to increased risk weights, now standing at 150% for scheduled commercial banks and 125% for NBFCs, a testament to the perceived volatility and risk in the unsecured credit card market.

B. Bank Credit to NBFCs

The RBI has also turned its attention towards bank exposure to NBFCs, where it has proposed an increase in risk weights by 25 percentage points for exposures rated below 100% by external credit assessment institutions (ECAI). This measure aims to fortify bank balance sheets against potential credit risks arising from their exposure to NBFCs.

C. Strengthening Credit Standards

The notification mandates regulated entities (REs) to review their sectoral exposure limits, particularly focusing on unsecured consumer credit. It emphasizes the need for board-approved limits, rigorous monitoring, and the classification of top-up loans against depreciating movable assets as unsecured, thus tightening the credit appraisal process.

Potential Impact

The RBI’s new directives are poised to recalibrate the risk framework within which banks and NBFCs operate. Banks may become more selective in extending consumer credit, possibly leading to a credit squeeze in certain segments of the market. NBFCs might experience a tightening in their liquidity profiles as banks reassess their lending strategies.

The Strategic Response

Financial institutions must adapt strategically. This entails bolstering risk management frameworks, diversifying credit portfolios, and potentially seeking alternative capital sources. The recalibration of credit policies and a renewed focus on secured lending could become a strategic priority.

Case Studies and Real-World Examples

Let’s consider the housing finance sector, traditionally deemed lower-risk due to the collateral value of property. In contrast, unsecured personal loans, which lack such collateral, may see reduced growth due to the higher capital charge required. This shift could mirror the post-2008 financial crisis era, where banks globally recalibrated their credit portfolios towards more secure assets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the RBI’s notification represents a significant pivot towards a more conservative credit landscape. While it may temper the growth of consumer credit in the short term, it promotes a more resilient financial system capable of withstanding shocks. Financial entities must now navigate this new terrain with foresight and agility, ensuring that they not only comply with the regulatory mandate but also seize the opportunity to innovate and solidify their risk management practices.