3rd June 2025 (13 Topics)
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RBI’s Proposed Norms on Gold Loans
Context
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed new norms to regulate gold loans, which has sparked debate due to their potential impact on borrowers and lenders. These norms aim to tighten the framework around loans against gold jewellery, a popular credit option for low-income borrowers who lack access to formal credit channels.
RBI’s Proposed Norms on Gold Loans - Key Concerns and Impact:
- Gold Loans: Gold loans are secured loans provided by banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) against gold jewellery pledged as collateral. They are generally short-term and low-ticket loans, repaid within a few months.
- Borrower Profile: Gold loans are mostly availed by individuals and small borrowers who cannot access traditional credit facilities due to lack of formal documentation or credit history. This makes gold loans crucial for financial inclusion in rural and semi-urban India.
- Current RBI Regulations: RBI currently prohibits loans against primary gold/silver (newly mined) or financial assets backed by them (like ETFs or mutual funds), limiting gold loans to jewellery as collateral.
- Concerns Over Proposed Norms: New norms may include stricter valuation methods, loan-to-value ratios, or limits on tenure or interest rates, potentially making gold loans less accessible or affordable. This could affect millions relying on such credit for emergencies or livelihood.
- Significance: Gold loans form a substantial part of informal credit markets. Any regulatory change impacts credit availability, borrower vulnerability, and the broader financial ecosystem. Understanding RBI’s stance on balancing financial stability with inclusion is critical.
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