National News
Gold loans shine brightest in India’s retail credit segment
India’s gold loan market has emerged as the standout performer in retail credit, doubling in size over the past fiscal year and eclipsing the growth of traditional lending segments such as housing, vehicle, and even credit cards. According to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, outstanding loans against gold jewellery soared 103% to ₹2.09 lakh crore as of March 2025, up from ₹1.03 lakh crore a year earlier, making gold loans the fastest-growing category even as overall bank credit growth slowed
Several factors have converged to fuel this remarkable expansion:
- Rising Gold Prices: The value of pledged jewellery increased as gold prices surged, enabling borrowers to secure larger loans against the same collateral.
- Regulatory Shifts: The RBI’s crackdown on unsecured lending, particularly personal and microfinance loans, prompted both banks and non-banking finance companies (NBFCs) to pivot toward secured lending products like gold loans
- Loan Reclassification: In 2023, the RBI directed banks to reclassify certain agricultural loans as gold loans, further boosting the reported figures
- Shift from Informal to Formal Sector: Regulatory tightening and digital onboarding have encouraged borrowers to move from informal lenders to banks and NBFCs, especially in southern India where gold-backed lending is deeply entrenched
Market Impact and Outlook
Gold loans now account for approximately 3.5% of total retail credit, up from 1.2% five years ago NBFCs such as Muthoot Finance and Manappuram Finance-where gold loans form a significant portion of assets under management-have reported record disbursements, despite recent RBI signals of stricter supervision and compliance requirements.
Lenders highlight the appeal of gold loans for their low credit risk and quick disbursal, with repeat customers often leveraging rising gold prices to refinance or increase their borrowing limits. While the sector’s asset quality remains robust, analysts note a slight uptick in overdue loans, reflecting the broader economic environment.
Contrary to popular perception, gold loans are not limited to financially distressed borrowers. Banks report growing demand from small businesses and middle-class households seeking short-term working capital, with average ticket sizes exceeding ₹1 lakh and low default rates.
As India’s love affair with gold endures and regulatory dynamics continue to evolve, gold loans appear set to retain their glitter in the retail credit landscape.
BrandBuzz
The Pearl Edit: Thoughtful Women’s Day Gifting by GIVA
Timeless pearl creations from GIVA that honour the quiet strength, elegance, and individuality of modern women.
For generations, pearls have defined timeless elegance — an evergreen classic that transcends trends and seasons. Effortlessly refined, they carry a quiet sophistication that has remained relevant across eras.
Neither fleeting nor ornamental, pearls embody a kind of understated luxury, graceful, enduring, and always in style.
This Women’s Day, GIVA celebrates women who are building, leading, choosing, and redefining life on their own terms. Women who don’t need to be loud to be powerful, because their presence speaks for itself.
In that spirit, pearls make for a meaningful gift. Timeless yet modern, they move effortlessly from everyday moments to milestone celebrations, making them a thoughtful way to honour the women who inspire us, whether it’s a mentor, a friend, a colleague, or even yourself.
Here are some pearl pieces that make for perfect Women’s Day gifts.
Stay With Me Golden Pendant With Link Chain
For the one who wears her heart unapologetically. A radiant pearl drop pendant set in gold-plated 925 silver, designed with an elegant lattice motif that blends timeless romance with modern craftsmanship. From the Barkha Singh x GIVA Glow in Motion collection, this piece celebrates intricate CNC artistry while offering a refined statement for everyday elegance.
Gold Pearl Centred Diamond Earrings
Elegant and timeless, these 18K BIS-hallmarked gold earrings feature a delicate circular motif with a luminous pearl at the centre, accented by sparkling lab-grown diamonds below. Designed for everyday luxury, they blend classic sophistication with modern brilliance, making them a graceful statement for any occasion.
Rose Gold On Mom’s Path Bracelet
A heartfelt rose gold-plated bracelet crafted in 925 silver, featuring a charming baby shoe motif with enamel detailing, a delicate pearl accent, and a subtle “mom” engraving. Thoughtfully designed to celebrate the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child, it makes for a meaningful keepsake.
Anushka Sharma Silver Drops of Pearls Set
Inspired by the hidden beauty of ocean pearls, the Anushka Sharma Silver Drop of Pearl Set captures effortless elegance with a graceful pearl drop and sparkling zircon accents. Crafted in 925 silver, the set includes a delicate pendant and matching earrings designed to add timeless charm to any look.
Rose Gold Glam Drops Necklace
Graceful and statement-making, this rose gold-plated lariat necklace in 925 silver features a central oblong pearl with delicate cascading strands ending in luminous pearls. Elegant yet contemporary, it’s the perfect piece to elevate evening looks and special occasions with effortless glamour.
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