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The financial sector is a complex web of institutions that provide a range of services to cater to diverse economic needs. Banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) are two pivotal players, each governed by distinct guidelines and registration processes. Banks’ and NBFCs guidelines and regulations are fundamental to maintaining the integrity and stability of the financial system. Banks operate under the comprehensive framework set by central banks or regulatory authorities. These guidelines encompass capital adequacy, risk management, liquidity norms, and governance practices. Banks are subjected to rigorous oversight to ensure the safety of deposits and the overall health of the financial system.
The bank and NBFC registration process is well-defined and comes under the scanner of the RBI. Conversely, NBFCs operate within a regulatory framework distinct from that of banks. While they do not require a banking license, they are mandated to register with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to conduct financial activities. These activities are defined by the RBI, and NBFCs must adhere to prudential norms, capital adequacy standards, and customer protection regulations. While they enjoy more operational flexibility than banks, they are also subject to stringent monitoring to prevent risks.
Banks and NBFCs Fixed Deposits are popular investment instruments that offer a fixed interest rate over a specified period. Both bank and NBFC FD interest rates may vary due to their inherent characteristics. Banks, due to their regulated status and access to public deposits, generally offer lower interest rates compared to NBFCs. NBFCs, seeking to attract customers with competitive rates, often provide higher interest on FDs. However, the trade-off lies in the difference in safety, as bank deposits are generally considered safer due to regulatory protections.
There are specific differences between small finance banks and NBFCs because they cater to specific financial needs. SFBs are a distinct category of banks that focus on providing financial services to underserved and unbanked sections of the population, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. They are regulated by the RBI and are required to comply with prudential norms similar to commercial banks. SFBs can provide a broader range of banking services compared to NBFCs. On the other hand, NBFCs do not have the full suite of banking capabilities. They often target specific niches and markets, offering specialized lending, investment, and advisory services.