Importance of Financial Services in Fostering MSME Growth: Insights from Industry Experts
Financial Services Firms and NBFCs Pivotal in Driving MSME Growth: Experts
The recently concluded MSME Day has once again highlighted the crucial role that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play in the economy, particularly in India where they significantly contribute to GDP, employment, and innovation. To accelerate their growth and ensure sustained success, experts emphasize the pivotal role of financial services firms, especially non-banking financial companies (NBFCs).
Jairam Sridharan, managing director of Piramal Finance, emphasized the importance of financial institutions in driving holistic growth for MSMEs. He stressed the need for tailored lending solutions, including microloans and flexible credit lines, to cater to the unique needs of MSMEs. Streamlining the loan approval process through digital platforms can also significantly reduce bottlenecks and provide faster access to capital.
In addition to lending services, Sridharan highlighted the importance of offering financial literacy programs to MSME owners. Educating them on financial management, investment strategies, and risk mitigation can empower them to make informed decisions, enhancing their business sustainability and growth potential.
Collaboration was also emphasized as a key factor in supporting MSMEs. Financial institutions should partner with government and industry organizations to create comprehensive support systems, providing access to grants, subsidies, and mentorship programs like the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana and the Startup India initiative.
Furthermore, the use of technology and data analytics can revolutionize MSME financing. By adopting alternative credit scoring models and leveraging big data, financial institutions can more accurately evaluate the creditworthiness of MSMEs, especially those without traditional credit histories.
Akash Sinha, CEO and co-founder of Cashfree Payments, highlighted the transformative potential of digital payments for MSMEs. He emphasized that digital payments can reduce costs, ensure secure transactions, and expand market reach, all of which are crucial for businesses with limited resources. Additionally, digital payments provide valuable data insights that can help enhance customer satisfaction and improve business outcomes.
Madhusudan Ekambaram, Co-Founder & CEO of KreditBee, underscored the importance of credit accessibility for MSMEs. Fintech companies are playing a crucial role in bridging the credit gap by providing faster, more accessible, and tailored credit solutions through digital documentation and video KYC processes.
Overall, experts agree that financial services firms and NBFCs are key drivers of holistic MSME growth. Through digital payments, accessible credit solutions, financial literacy programs, and collaborative support systems, these institutions can significantly enhance the growth and sustainability of MSMEs, ultimately paving the way for a thriving and inclusive economy.
