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Contributed by Shalinee Mimani, CRO of Godrej Capital
While credit risk has been systematically identified, analysed, and managed throughout history, the focus on predicting customer behaviour, particularly that of NBFC customers, has emerged only in recent years. Modern techniques now utilise advanced technologies and extensive datasets. Artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning algorithms analyse both traditional financial metrics and alternative data sources, such as social media activity and online behaviour, enabling more accurate predictions of creditworthiness.
This sophisticated approach enables faster decision-making and more personalised credit offerings, addressing various customer segments and providing a comprehensive view of an individual’s or company’s financial behaviour.
The Impact of Regulators on Credit Risk Methodologies
Regulations have played a pivotal role in shaping how NBFCs manage credit risk. By setting capital adequacy norms and risk management guidelines, regulators have pushed institutions to assess key factors such as the probability of default, potential loss, and sectoral exposure.
Over time, these frameworks have evolved with advances in technology and data analytics. Today, NBFCs are increasingly adopting machine learning to enhance the accuracy of risk prediction and improve credit decision-making.
AI and ML Methodologies to Credit Risk Analysis
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are revolutionising the NBFC sector by enabling more accurate credit risk analysis. AI helps process vast amounts of data, uncovering patterns that traditional methods may overlook. NBFCs use ML to refine credit decisions, monitor loan performance, and manage risk more effectively. These technologies help clean and process data, identify critical risk factors, and enhance predictions of loan defaults. By leveraging AI and ML, institutions can make data-driven decisions, optimise customer segmentation, and set more tailored loan terms. A balanced approach to secured and unsecured lending, combined with continuous stress testing, ensures resilience. Godrej Capital has integrated technology combined with deep market insights to stay agile, maintain a strong risk posture, and expand access to credit.
While AI and ML improve the accuracy of credit risk predictions, they also present challenges. Financial institutions must ensure these models are compliant with regulations and avoid creating unintended risks.
In contrast to traditional methods, ML models can inadvertently lead to biased or unfair credit practices, such as discriminatory lending decisions. It is vital to balance technological innovation with ethical considerations to prevent issues like bias in loan offerings and inequality in financial access.
How Does it Personalise Customers?
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) enables NBFCs to deliver more personalised customer experiences. By analysing individual financial behaviour and preferences, NBFCs can tailor products and services to specific needs, enhancing customer satisfaction and fostering long-term loyalty. At Godrej Capital, our emphasis on flexibility and proactive risk management has helped businesses expand without compromising financial stability. We continuously monitor and adjust to loan portfolios to ensure that emerging risks are addressed early. This well-rounded approach can help financial institutions strike the ideal balance between fostering growth and maintaining sound risk management practices.
Advanced credit risk management also helps NBFCs meet regulatory requirements more effectively. Automated systems ensure consistent adherence to compliance protocols, safeguarding the institution’s reputation and minimising regulatory penalties. These systems assess various factors, including lending history, Bureau scores, repayment capacity, and an individual’s financial behaviour, which are crucial elements for building trust and resilience with regulators and stakeholders, including customers.
The adoption of advanced credit risk strategies represents more than just a technological shift; it reflects a forward-looking mindset essential for navigating today’s dynamic lending landscape. By leveraging AI, ML, and big data, NBFCs can uncover deeper customer insights, improve compliance, and expand access to credit. This not only enhances operational agility but also positions institutions to serve emerging segments more meaningfully, driving both business growth and financial inclusion.
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