Navigating the complex banking world can often be confusing, with various types of financial institutions offering different services tailored to specific needs. One such entity that has garnered attention in recent years is the Small Finance Bank (SFB). These banks are designed to serve the underserved and unbanked segments of the population, providing essential financial services that might otherwise be out of reach. But how do they differ from the more familiar commercial banks that dominate the financial landscape?
In this blog, we will delve into the unique characteristics of SFBs, compare them with commercial banks, and explore how they are reshaping the banking sector by bringing financial inclusivity to the forefront.
What is Small Finance Bank?
A small finance bank in India is a banking segment that was created by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) with the guidance of the Indian Government. This banking segment was created with the sole goal of extending proper banking services to the underserved and unserved sectors in India, including marginal and small farmers, small and micro industries, small business units, and unorganised entities. The functions of a small finance bank include providing all basic banking needs like taking and lending deposits.
What are the Functions of Small Finance Banks?
Small finance banks are known to not only be a savings medium but also offer credit to micro and small industries, small businesses, unorganised sectors, and marginal and small farmers. These small finance banks usually operate on low-cost operations and advanced technology. Below is a simple explanation of the functions of small finance banks:
- In India, Small Finance Banks (SFBs) mainly engage in fundamental banking operations to reach the country's unserved and underserved populations.
- While they can provide deposit and loan products, they are restricted from establishing subsidiaries for non-banking financial services.
What is the Importance of Small Finance Banks in India?
The SFBs in India provide important banking services to several people. Here are some noteworthy points of importance:
- Small finance banks can operate without geographical restrictions.
- They can set up in any location as long as it meets the necessary proximity criteria.
- In terms of risk management, small finance banks are similar to any other commercial bank.
- These banks must comply with CRR and SLR requirements, just like commercial banks.
- The primary focus of small finance banks should be on critical sectors such as agriculture and small businesses.
- At least 50% of the loan portfolio of small finance banks should be dedicated to loans and advances for microfinance businesses.
What are the Objectives of Small Finance Banks in India?
The small finance banks in India have the following primary objectives:
Encourages Financial Inclusivity
Small finance banks make it a mission to make financial products and services accessible to the usually overlooked, underserved, or unserved segment of the Indian population. With its setup in different remote locations of the country, SFBs promote financial inclusivity.
Offers Basic Banking Services
Small finance banks aim to provide essential banking services to people who typically cannot access these resources. These banks offer products such as savings accounts, fixed deposits, and microloans.
Partakes in Minimising Poverty
By promoting financial inclusivity, SFBs contribute to reducing poverty. They offer essential financial services and products to low-income populations, fostering equitable economic opportunities nationwide.
Provides Microfinance Services
A primary responsibility of Small Finance Banks (SFBs) is to provide microfinance services. This entails offering small loans to micro-enterprises and low-income households, promoting small-scale entrepreneurship, and enhancing financial stability within underserved communities.
Supports Agricultural Financing
These financial institutions are vital in meeting the funding requirements of the agricultural sector. They provide loans and additional services to small-scale farmers and rural families, thereby supporting both the agricultural community and the rural economy.
What are the Required RBI Guidelines for SFBs in India?
Small finance banks in India operate under the regulation of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Some of the main guidelines for SFBs are:
- SFBs are awarded scheduled bank status once they have been operational and meet the suitability criteria outlined in section 42 of the RBI Act, 1934.
- The primary mandate of SFBs is to enhance access to financial services for underserved and unbanked populations, including small businesses, low-income households, and farmers.
- SFBs must maintain a minimum Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of 15%.
- SFBs are required to allocate 75% of their Adjusted Net Bank Credit to Priority Sector Lending.
- At least 25% of an SFB’s branches must be located in unbanked rural areas. The minimum paid-up voting equity capital for SFBs is set at Rs. 200 crore.
- A minimum of 50% of the loan portfolio of SFBs should consist of microfinance and loans up to Rs. 25,00,000.
- SFBs must adhere to various prudential norms and regulations concerning income recognition, asset classification, and provisioning.
- SFBs are encouraged to leverage technology to enhance their operational efficiency and better serve their target segments.
What is the Difference Between Small Finance Banks and Commercial Banks in India?
Now that you know that an SFB is a different financial entity, you should also know the basic points of differences between them and commercial banks in India.
| Features | Small Finance Bank | Commercial Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Services | They provide essential banking services such as savings accounts, fixed deposits, recurring deposits, digital banking, debit cards, and more. | In addition to fundamental banking services, commercial banks deliver a variety of financial services, including credit cards, wealth management, corporate banking services, and more. |
| Capital | Establishing a small finance bank requires a minimum capital of ₹200 crores. | Establishing a commercial bank requires a minimum capital of ₹500 crores. |
| Loan Products | Loans from small finance banks encompass microfinance loans, small personal loans, micro-business loans, and loans for marginal farmers and industries. | A more extensive selection of loan products is available, such as large corporate loans, housing loans, personal loans, and others. |
| Target Customers | Small finance banks focus on serving the underserved and unbanked segments of the population, such as small businesses, MSMEs, and marginal farmers. | These banks serve a broader customer base, including large corporations, SMEs, and retail customers. |
How Many Small Finance Banks Are There in India?
There are around eleven small finance banks in India. Below is a list of these banks:
- Au Small Finance Bank Limited
- Capital Small Finance Bank Limited
- Equitas Small Finance Bank Limited
- Suryoday Small Finance Bank Limited
- Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Limited
- Utkarsh Small Finance Bank Limited
- ESAF Small Finance Bank Limited
- Fincare Small Finance Bank Limited
- Jana Small Finance Bank Limited
- North East Small Finance Bank Limited
- Shivalik Small Finance Bank Limited
Conclusion
Small finance banks play a crucial role in bridging the financial inclusion gap by providing tailored financial services to underserved segments of the population. Unlike traditional commercial banks, which focus on a broad range of services for individuals and businesses, small finance banks are designed to prioritise the needs of small businesses, low-income households, and micro-entrepreneurs.
While both types of institutions contribute significantly to the economy, their unique mandates and operational frameworks underscore the importance of a diverse banking ecosystem. Understanding these differences not only helps consumers make informed financial decisions but also highlights the integral role of small finance banks in fostering inclusive economic growth.
FAQs
1. Are small finance banks in India approved by RBI?
SFBs operate in India under the oversight of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). They fall within the scope of the Banking Ombudsman Scheme of 2006, with amendments applied as necessary. These banks are incorporated as public limited companies in accordance with the Companies Act of 2013. They are also regulated by the Banking Regulations Act of 1949, the RBI Act of 1934, and various other pertinent statutes and directives that may be issued periodically.
2. Which committee recommended small finance banks in India?
SFBs were established following the recommendations of Dr Nachiket Mor's committee to enhance financial inclusion.
3. What differentiates small finance banks from microfinance institutions?
SFBs offer a broader array of financial products and services compared to Microfinance Institutions (MFIs), which mainly specialise in offering small loans to low-income individuals and groups. In contrast, SFBs provide a full spectrum of banking services, including deposits, loans, insurance, and investment options.
4. Who can open an account in SFBs?
Anyone is eligible to open an account with a Small Finance Bank. These banks are intended to be inclusive, providing banking services to all segments of society, including low-income households and small businesses.
5. Can SFBs offer online banking services?
Numerous small finance banks provide digital banking services. These encompass online banking, mobile banking applications, and other digital platforms, enabling customers to conveniently handle their accounts, transfer money, and access various banking services.
6. Are deposits safe in SFBs?
Deposits in small finance banks are secure because they operate under the RBI's regulations. These banks must adhere to specific capital requirements and implement sound banking practices to protect customer deposits.
