NBFC Takeover- An Overview

Aspect Details
Timeline The timeline to obtain an NBFC takeover in India takes around 3 to 6 months
Benefits The benefits of obtaining an NBFC takeover in India are as discussed below:
  • Enables Business Expansion
  • Gateway to New Markets
  • Acquisition of Specialized Skills
  • Diversification of Product Portfolio
  • Boosts the Profitability of the Company
  • Cost Efficiency and Economies of Scale
  • Regulatory Compliance Benefits
  • Brand Recognition
Documents Needed for NBFC takeover online The documents needed to apply for NBFC takeover in India are provided below:
  • Directors and Shareholders information
  • Non-criminal & non-conviction (u/s 138 of NI Act) statement
  • Declaration of association and non-association
  • A bankers and due diligence report
  • 3 years’ financial statement
  • Company’s legal documents
  • PAN Number and KYC documents
  • NBFC business plan
  • Acquirer’s source of capital
  • Directors’ Identification Number (DIN)
  • Registered Business Address
Types of NBFC takeovers The types of NBFC takeovers in India are as provided below:
  • Friendly Takeover
  • Hostile Takeover
  • Funding-Based Takeover
  • Distressed Asset Takeover
Eligibility Criteria The eligibility criteria for NBFC takeover in India are as discussed below:
  • At 2 parties required, namely the target and the acquirer company
  • Have a minimum positive net owned fund of Rs. 2 crores
  • The buyer must have at least Rs. 5 crores by the end of March 31st, 2025.
  • Secure asset classification under the NBFC Asset Liability Management System
  • Comply with the fit and proper criteria as specified from time to time by the RBI
  • Maintain a capital adequacy ratio comprising tier 1 and tier 2 capitals
  • Not compromise with the operational viability of the target NBFC after its takeover
Scope of NBFCs Given below are the significant areas where the acquired NBFCs can play a substantial role:
  • Technological Adoption
  • Partnership with Fintech Companies
  • Digital Onboarding and Loan Management
  • Offer BNPL Products
  • Bring Innovation in Lending Products
  • Contribution to Green Financing and Sustainable Development
  • Financial Products for Agri-businesses
  • Focus on Socially Responsible Investments
  • Blockchain Technology
  • Financial Inclusion
  • Mentorship Programs for Women
  • Financial Literacy Initiatives
Process The process to obtain a full NBFC takeover is as provided below:
  • Signing Memorandum of Understanding
  • Conduct Board Meeting
  • Conduct Due Diligence Proceeding
  • Public Notice Regarding Takeover
  • Signing Share Transfer Agreement
  • NOC from Creditors
  • Liquidation & Transfer Process
  • Valuation and Transfer of Assets
  • Survey Notice to Regional Office
  • Transfer of Undertaking
Post-NBFC Takeover Compliance The post-NBFC takeover compliance requirements are as provided below:
  • Compliance with NBFC takeover regulations
  • Intimation to the RBI about the completion of the takeover transaction
  • Update the shareholding structure with the MCA
  • Regularly update about the internal company’s registers
  • Make changes in the authorized signatories
  • Review and revise internal policies after the takeover of NBFC
  • Submit an updated business plan (if required by RBI)
  • Maintain the fit and proper criteria of the acquired NBFC
  • Prepare a valuation report
How Enterslice Can Help You?
  • 10+ years of expertise in the takeover of NBFCs in India
  • Served across 1000+ fintech and NBFC clients across India
  • Expert-led due diligence and legal vetting
  • 100% assistance with change in management and shareholding filings
  • End-to-end confidential support for domestic and foreign investors
  • Offers transparent pricing, with no hidden costs
  • Provide professional technology-based legal services
  • Offers strong industrial connections and assistance
  • Provides post-licensing and ongoing compliance support
  • Assistance while the transfer of equity of the existing NBFC

Partner with Enterslice for a Smooth NBFC Takeover in India

With over 500+ successful fintech entrepreneurs, Enterslice will help you with a successful NBFC Takeover and enter India’s thriving fintech space.

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Understanding NBFC Takeover in India

NBFC takeover refers to the process of acquisition of one Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) by another company/ NBFC, registered under the Companies Act, 2013. The entire process is regulated by the Reserve Bank of India under the Non-Banking Financial Companies (Approval of Acquisition or Transfer of Control) Directions, 2014.

Whether you are a fintech startup, digital lender, or international investor, acquiring an NBFC in India, gives access to regulated financial services, such as lending, credit, and digital payments under the RBI supervision. Buying an NBFC online further provides a quicker route to enter the Indian financial market, resulting in high demand for digital financial services.

The process of NBFC takeover, which is subject to the regulations of the RBI, SEBI, and other relevant regulatory bodies, involves complex transactions that involve legal, financial, and regulatory considerations. Connect Enterslice to fast-track your market entry with a legally structured NBFC takeover, with no hidden delays, no regulatory hassle.

Partial or full acquisition or transfer of shareholding, management, and control

Acquisition of more than 26% shareholding requires mandatory approval from the RBI

Prohibit applying for a fresh NBFC license, for quick market entry

Opportunity to offer regulated financial services under RBI supervision

Ideal for fintech, digital lenders, and international investors

Strong digital infrastructure and expanding financial inclusion

Sign a Custom Share Purchase & Business Transfer Agreements (SPA/BTA)

Types of Non-Banking Financial Company Takeovers in India

The non-banking financial company takeovers can occur through various strategic approaches, providing businesses a suitable path for expansion or entry into the financial market, as discussed below:

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Friendly Takeover

A friendly takeover is a type of non-banking financial company takeover that occurs between the companies with their mutual consent. Here, the target NBFC is amicably acquired by the acquirer NBFC, subject to the terms and conditions agreed upon between them. This type of takeover is generally characterized by a smooth process, allowing both parties to achieve a better per-share price, and opportunities for business growth.

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Hostile Takeover

A hostile takeover is the direct acquisition of the target company by the acquirer company through reaching the company's shareholders or fighting to replace management to get the acquisition approved. Usually, this kind of non-banking financial company takeover occurs when an entity attempts to take control of another company without the consent or cooperation of the target company's Board of Directors.

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Funding-Based Takeover

The funding-based takeover is a type of non-banking financial company takeover that ensures the acquisition of finances, such as cash, debt, or shares of the target NBFCs. This type of takeover is one of the most common situations where the acquirer NBFC maintains liquidity while gaining control over the other entity.

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Distressed Asset Takeover

A distressed asset takeover is a type of non-banking financial company takeover that authorizes the acquisition of riskier shares of the target NBFC. This type of takeover is often considered a part of a turnaround or restructuring strategy that injects capital, undertakes debt resolution, and improves the operational management of the target company.

What is the Procedure for NBFC Takeover?

The procedure for NBFC takeover, which mandates the acquisition of NBFCs through filing applications to the Regional Office of the Department of Non-Banking Supervision, in whose jurisdiction the registered office of the NBFC is located, is as discussed below:

Signing Memorandum of Understanding

Initially, both the acquirer and target company are required to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which mentions each company's responsibilities and requirements during the takeover.

Conduct Board Meeting

After signing the MOU, both the target and the acquirer company must conduct a board meeting on the matters concerning the company’s purpose of granting approval and replying to queries related to or asked by the RBI.

Conduct Due Diligence Proceeding

Before starting the proceedings for the takeover of NBFC, the acquirer company must review the crucial aspects, including recognition of financial and strategic goals, thorough background verification, NBFC market analysis, and assessment of financial aspects.

Public Notice Regarding Takeover

After receiving the approval from the RBI, a public notice shall be made within 30 days of the approval in two newspapers, which are prevalent in the areas where the NBFC is primarily functioning. The Public notice is made to check if there are any objections from the public regarding the takeover.

Signing the Share Transfer Agreement

Further, both entities must sign a share transfer agreement (share purchase agreement), depending upon the mutual consent of the parties, and the acquired company shall pay the remaining amount.

NOC from Creditors

Before officially signing the share transfer agreement for the takeover of NBFC, the target company must necessarily obtain a NOC (No Objection Certificate) from all creditors.

Liquidation & Transfer Process

The next step allows for the liquidation of all the assets of the target NBFC. The assets of the target NBFC are transferred to the acquiring NBFC, and the liabilities are paid off.

Valuation and Transfer of Assets

The next step requires adopting the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) Method for cost assessment, which presents the entity's net present value. After the evaluation, the chartered accountant shall issue a certificate briefing on the method adopted for valuation.

Survey Notice to Regional Office

Upon successful evaluation of the entity’s net present value, an application (notice) must be duly filed with the RBI regional office, to obtain approval on its letterhead. Additionally, all the changes made after the takeover must be intimated to the RBI from time to time.

Transfer of Undertaking

Lastly, all the liquidated assets and paid-off liabilities of the target company, as shown in its balance sheet, must be transferred to the bank account of the acquirer company, ensuring calculation done based on the net worth on the date of takeover of the company.

Timeline for Takeover of NBFC

The process for the takeover of NBFC in India, which typically takes around 3 to 6 months, varies based on the complexity of the transactions and the time taken for RBI approval, as provided below:

Initial Planning and Target Identification: 1 to 2 Weeks

It takes around 1 to 2 weeks to make preliminary discussions and identify a suitable NBFC for acquisition by the acquirer NBFC.

Due Diligence Process: 3 to 4 Weeks

It takes approximately 3 to 4 weeks to verify RBI compliance and conduct financial, legal, and regulatory due diligence on the target company.

Drafting of Agreements: 1 to 2 Weeks

It takes approximately 1 to 2 weeks to prepare and finalise the terms and conditions of a share purchase agreement (SPA) or business transfer agreement (BTA).

Filing of Application with RBI: 30 Days

Within 30 days of filing the share purchase agreement, the entities must submit a takeover application along with the necessary documents to the RBI.

RBI Review and Approval: 2 to 3 Months

It takes approximately 2 to 3 months for the RBI to review and approve the application in accordance with the Non-Banking Financial Companies (Approval of Acquisition or Transfer of Control) Directions, 2014.

Post-Approval Formalities: 2 to 3 Weeks

It takes around 2 to 3 weeks to adhere to the post-approval formalities, such as a change in shareholding pattern, publishing a public notice in the newspaper, updating the ROC, and securing operational transition.

Documents Needed for NBFC Takeover

The entities must submit the list of following documents and information needed with the company’s letterhead for the NBFC takeover in India:

Directors and Shareholders information

Non-criminal & non-conviction (u/s 138 of NI Act) statement

Declaration of association and non-association

A bankers and due diligence report

3 years’ financial statement

Company’s legal documents

PAN Number and KYC documents

NBFC business plan

Acquirer’s source of capital

Directors’ Identification Number (DIN)

Registered Business Address

Other statutory information about the company

Benefits of Non-Banking Financial Company Takeover

The NBFC takeover, with credit demand at an all-time high in India, offers various benefits to businesses seeking expansion in India’s financial sector. Consider the following benefits of the Non-banking financial company takeover in India-

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Enables Business Expansion

NBFC takeover enables business expansion, allowing the acquiring company to expand its presence into the untapped or underserved markets across India.

Gateway to New Markets

The NBFC takeover provides a gateway to a new market landscape, allowing the acquiring company to understand customer behaviour, local challenges, and market dynamics.

Acquisition of Specialized Skills

Another benefit of the NBFC takeover is the acquisition of the competitive market’s specialised skills and updated technological developments already existing in the target NBFC.

Diversification of Product Portfolio

The NBFC takeover facilitates the diversification of the product portfolio, thereby reducing reliance on a single line of business.

Boosts the Profitability of the Company

The NBFC takeover often leads to increased revenues and profits by tapping into an established client base and market share of the company.

Cost Efficiency and Economies of Scale

NBFC takeover by another acquiring company can result in cost savings and improved operational efficiency, ultimately enhancing profitability and economies of scale.

Regulatory Compliance Benefits

An NBFC takeover allows the acquiring company to inherit the target NBFC’s existing licenses, approvals, and regulatory clearances, which eliminates the need to apply for fresh registration.

Brand Recognition

An NBFC takeover significantly enhances the acquiring company’s brand visibility and credibility, leveraging increased goodwill and trust in the financial sector.

Pre-Requisites for NBFC Takeover in India

The applicant entities must ensure compliance with the following pre-requisites before applying for NBFC takeover with the RBI:

  • Number of Parties: The NBFC takeover process generally requires two parties, namely the target company and the acquirer company, both of which are registered under the Companies Act, 2013.
  • Net Owned Fund Requirement: The minimum positive net owned fund required for the takeover of NBFC is Rs. 2 crores, whereas, the RBI requires the buyer to hold at least Rs. 5 crores by the end of March 31st, 2025.
  • NBFC Asset Classification: The NBFCs must secure their asset classification under the NBFC Asset Liability Management System provided by the provisioning norms set by the target NBFC.
  • Fit and Proper Criteria: Every NBFC undertaking an NBFC takeover must comply with the fit and proper criteria as specified by the RBI from time to time.
  • Capital Adequacy: The NBFCs must maintain a capital adequacy ratio, which comprises tier 1 and tier 2 capital, shall not be less than 15% of its aggregate risk-weighted assets on the balance sheet and the risk-adjusted value of off-balance sheet items.
  • Operational Viability: The acquiring NBFC must ensure that the operational viability of the target NBFC is uncompromised after the NBFC takeover.
  • Management Change Public Notice While NBFC Takeover: Any change in management or control of the company must be accompanied by a public notice in one of the leading national newspapers and local newspapers, at least 30 days before the sale of shares or transfer of control.

RBI Approval Before Takeover of NBFC

The entity planning for takeover of NBFC in India must assess whether prior approval from the RBI is required. While certain transactions mandate RBI approval, others may be exempt under specific conditions, as discussed below:

When RBI Approval is Required

  • Acquisition of more than 26% of the shareholding in the NBFC
  • Change in more than 30% of the Board of Directors, including management changes
  • Acquisition of shares or amalgamation with any entity
  • Any change in control or management, whether through share transfer or otherwise
  • Conversion of NBFC into a Bank or vice versa

When RBI Approval is not Required

  • Change in up to 30% the Board of Directors, excluding independent directors
  • Buyback or reduction of share capital up to 26%, subject to approval by a competent court or authority
  • Transfer of shares between existing promoters or shareholders
  • No change in the control or management of the company

Post-Takeover Compliance Requirements for NBFC Takeover

The NBFC takeover guidelines must be duly complied with to uphold the regulatory standards, investors’ confidence, and the integrity of the NBFC. Have a look at the following post-takeover compliance requirements, as provided below:

  • Compliance with NBFC takeover regulations
  • Intimation to the RBI about the completion of the takeover transaction
  • Update the shareholding structure and director’s details with the MCA
  • Regularly update the internal company’s registers and statutory records
  • Make changes in the authorized signatories of all NBFC-related bank accounts
  • Review and revise internal policies after the takeover of NBFC
  • Submit an updated business plan (if required by RBI)
  • Maintain the fit and proper criteria of the acquired NBFC
  • Prepare a valuation report to determine the fair value of the company
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Why Enterslice is the Best Choice for NBFC Takeover?

At Enterslice, we offer specialised and regulated process NBFC takeover in the manner as outlined by the RBI. Connect our team to ensure full compliance with all legal and procedural requirements, making the takeover journey smooth, strategic, and hassle-free.

Have a look at some of the reasons why Enterslice is considered the best choice for NBFC takeover:

  • 10+ years of expertise in the takeover of NBFCs in India
  • Served across 1000+ fintech and NBFC clients across India
  • Expert-led due diligence and legal vetting
  • Support from deal structuring to post-acquisition compliance
  • 100% assistance with change in management and shareholding filings
  • Expertise and understanding of RBI guidelines and takeover restrictions
  • End-to-end confidential support for domestic and foreign investors
  • Offers transparent pricing, with no hidden costs
  • Provide professional technology-based legal services
  • Offers strong industrial connections and assistance
  • Provides post-licensing and ongoing compliance support
  • Custom solutions for startups, NBFCs, and enterprises
  • Assistance with the transfer of equity of the existing NBFC
  • Ensure due diligence for shareholders and directors during NBFC takeover
  • Guarantees timely and cost-efficient takeover of NBFCs in India
  • Expert consulting solutions for NBFC Due Diligence

FAQs on NBFC Takeover in India

NBFC takeover is the process where one company acquires another NBFC, gaining control either through a share purchase or by altering the shareholding by 26% or more. It is considered a strategic move that allows businesses to expand and diversify their business operations within the financial market.

The process for NBFC takeover requires prior approval of the RBI (upon fulfilment of specific conditions). Have a look at the detailed procedure which requires compliance with the following steps needed for the takeover of an NBFC in India:

  • Step 1: Signing Memorandum of Understanding
  • Step 2: Conduct Board Meeting
  • Step 3: Conduct Due Diligence Proceeding
  • Step 4: Public Notice Regarding Takeover
  • Step 5: Signing the Share Transfer Agreement
  • Step 6: NOC from Creditors
  • Step 7: Liquidation & Transfer Process
  • Step 8: Valuation and Transfer of Assets
  • Step 9: Survey Notice to Regional Office
  • Step 10: Transfer of Undertaking

Yes, you need a minimum net-owned fund (NOF) of Rs. 2 crores for the NBFC takeover, increasing up to Rs. 5 crores, depending upon scale-based regulations. Additionally, a buyer company (i.e., the acquirer company) must be prepared with Rs. 5 crores to meet the RBI’s requirements.

Yes, you need to submit the last 3 years' income tax return as an income proof to the RBI, at the time of takeover of NBFC.

Yes, maintaining a minimum CIBIL score of 700+ and no-dispute or write-off of loans in the past 24 hours, is often relevant for minimizing risk potential at the time of NBFC takeover in India.

Yes, the RBI registration for the NBFC takeover is mandatory for any change in management or transfer of assets.

Before proceeding with a change in management, transfer of shares, or sale of an NBFC, an NOD, i.e., notice of determination, has to be obtained from the RBI.

For a name change, you need to obtain a name availability certificate from the MCA. Afterwards, you can contact the RBI for NOD. Once NOD is granted, you can proceed with the name change.

The Reserve Bank of India, i.e., RBI is the authority responsible for controlling and approving the NBFC takeovers in India.

No, NBFCs cannot engage in the acquisition of securities issued by the government.

The market size of NBFC takeovers from Jan. 1st, 2017, to May 31st, 2018, is the highest among all sectors. Approx. 23.7% of open takeover offers were launched for listed NBFCs under the SEBI (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations 2011. Hence, the interest in NBFC takeovers is expected to rapidly grow in comparison to the registration of NBFCs and other banking institutions.

In the ordinary course of business, the takeover of NBFC usually takes 3 to 6 months, subject to regulatory delays (if any).

The NBFCs in India have a promising future scope, playing a substantial role in the technological adoption, partnership with fintech companies, digital onboarding and loan management, offer BNPL products, bring innovation in lending products, contribution to green financing and sustainable development, financial products for agri-businesses, focus on socially responsible investments, financial inclusion, mentorship programs for women, and other financial literacy initiatives.

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