Peer-to-Peer Lending
What is Peer-to-Peer Lending?
Peer-to-peer (P2P) lending, also known as person-to-person lending or social lending, is a form of lending that connects individual lenders directly with borrowers through an online platform. In this lending model, the intermediation of traditional financial institutions, such as banks, is bypassed.
Here's how P2P lending typically works:
Platform Registration: Borrowers and lenders register on a P2P lending platform, providing necessary information and undergoing identity verification and credit assessment processes.
Borrower Application: Borrowers submit loan applications detailing the amount they need, purpose, and other relevant information. Some platforms may require additional documentation.
Credit Evaluation: P2P lending platforms assess the creditworthiness of borrowers using various factors such as credit history, income, employment stability, and other relevant data. The evaluation determines the risk profile and interest rate for the borrower.
Listing and Funding: Approved loan applications are listed on the platform, allowing individual lenders to review and choose loans they wish to fund. Lenders can typically diversify their investment across multiple loans to manage risk.
Loan Disbursement: Once a loan is fully funded by multiple lenders, the platform facilitates the disbursement of funds to the borrower.
Repayment: Borrowers make periodic repayments, including principal and interest, according to the agreed-upon terms. The platform collects the repayments from borrowers and distributes them to lenders.
Platform Fees: P2P lending platforms charge fees to borrowers and lenders for facilitating the lending process, managing the platform, and performing credit assessments.
P2P lending provides an alternative financing option for borrowers who may have difficulty obtaining loans through traditional channels. It also offers individual investors an opportunity to earn interest by lending directly to borrowers, potentially achieving higher returns compared to traditional savings or investment products.