The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revealed the distinguished roster of 15 non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) selected for the upper echelon as per the Scale-Based Regulation (SBR) framework for the fiscal year 2023-24.
Mumbai, India – In a significant move that reverberated through India’s financial sector, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) unveiled its much-anticipated list of elite non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) for the fiscal year 2023-24. These NBFCs, carefully curated under the Scale-Based Regulation (SBR) framework, represent the crème de la crème of India’s financial landscape. This exclusive club is the benchmark for excellence and stability in the country’s financial sector.
While the list includes stalwarts like LIC Housing Finance, Bajaj Finance, and Tata Sons, notable exclusions, such as TMF Business Services (formerly Tata Motors Finance), raised eyebrows. The regulator clarified that TMF’s absence stems from ongoing business reorganization—a strategic decision rather than a reflection of its financial standing.
The Upper 15 Squad
The RBI’s discerning eye has placed these 15 NBFCs in the upper tier for the fiscal year 2023-24, solidifying their positions as the cornerstone of India’s financial landscape:
- LIC Housing Finance
- Bajaj Finance
- Shriram Finance (formerly Shriram Transport Finance Company)
- Tata Sons Private Limited
- L & T Finance
- Piramal Capital & Housing Finance
- Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company
- Indiabulls Housing Finance
- Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services
- Tata Capital Financial Services
- PNB Housing Finance
- HDB Financial Services
- Aditya Birla Finance
- Muthoot Finance
- Bajaj Housing Finance Ltd.
These elite institutions, carefully handpicked by the RBI, are entrusted with the responsibility of upholding the highest standards of financial prudence, ethics, and stability. They play a pivotal role in ensuring the resilience of India’s financial system, especially in the face of economic uncertainties.
LIC Housing Finance, a name synonymous with trust and reliability, leads the pack. The company has consistently demonstrated its ability to navigate complex financial markets while safeguarding the interests of its stakeholders. Bajaj Finance, with its innovative financial products and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, rightfully secures its place in this esteemed list.
Shriram Finance, now known as Shriram Transport Finance Company, continues its legacy of excellence in vehicle financing, catering to diverse segments of the population. Tata Sons Private Limited, the holding company of the Tata Group, reinforces its status as a financial powerhouse with a spot on this prestigious list.
L & T Finance, with its wide-ranging financial services, including infrastructure financing, is another key player in India’s economic growth story. Piramal Capital & Housing Finance, known for its comprehensive real estate financing solutions, strengthens the foundation of the elite 15.
Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company, a part of the Murugappa Group, brings its expertise in vehicle finance and rural and semi-urban lending to the upper tier. Indiabulls Housing Finance, which has carved a niche for itself in the housing finance sector, continues to shine.
Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services, a subsidiary of Mahindra Group, remains a strong contender, thanks to its rural and semi-urban presence. Tata Capital Financial Services, with its diverse range of financial products and services, is another valuable addition.
PNB Housing Finance, backed by the Punjab National Bank, retains its position as a key player in the housing finance sector. HDB Financial Services, a subsidiary of HDFC Bank, showcases its expertise in consumer and commercial finance.
Aditya Birla Finance, part of the Aditya Birla Group, brings its comprehensive suite of financial solutions to the table. Muthoot Finance, known for its gold loan services, maintains its presence in the upper echelon. Bajaj Housing Finance Ltd., a subsidiary of Bajaj Finance, completes this prestigious list.
The Scale-Based Regulation (SBR) Framework
The RBI’s SBR framework, introduced in 2020, has become a critical instrument for assessing and regulating NBFCs in India. It classifies NBFCs into different layers based on their size, complexity, and systemic significance. The upper layer, comprising a select group of NBFCs, is subject to more stringent regulatory requirements and oversight, reflecting their elevated role in the financial ecosystem.
These elite NBFCs, designated for the upper layer, are expected to set the gold standard for risk management, corporate governance, and financial stability. Their performance and adherence to regulatory norms are closely monitored to ensure the overall stability and resilience of India’s financial sector.
