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Difference Between Nidhi Company and NBFC Company

Key Difference Between Nidhi Company and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFC)

Introduction

Nidhi companies and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) are two types of financial institutions that operate in India. While both Nidhi companies and NBFCs registration process are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), they have different characteristics and serve different purposes. In this article, we will explore the meaning and differences between Nidhi companies and NBFCs.

Nidhi Company Meaning

A Nidhi company is a type of NBFC that is primarily involved in borrowing and lending money among its members. Nidhi companies are formed with the objective of cultivating the habit of thrift and savings among its members and providing them with access to credit. Nidhi companies are regulated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) and are required to comply with the Companies Act, 2013.

 

Nidhi companies are different from other NBFC registration processes in that they are not allowed to engage in any other financial activities such as insurance, chit funds, or hire purchase financing. Nidhi companies are also required to have a minimum of 200 members and a net-owned fund of at least Rs. 10 lakhs.

Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) Meaning

NBFCs are financial institutions that provide banking services without holding a banking license. NBFCs registration process are regulated by the RBI and are required to comply with the RBI’s guidelines and regulations. NBFCs can engage in a wide range of financial activities such as lending, investment, and insurance. NBFCs are different from banks in that they cannot accept demand deposits, issue checks, or provide payment and settlement services. However, NBFCs can accept time deposits and provide loans and advances.

What are the key differences between Nidhi Companies and NBFCs?

Here is a tabular format highlighting the differences between Nidhi Companies and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs):

 

Characteristics

Nidhi Companies

Non-Banking Financial Companies

Purpose

It is primarily involved in borrowing and lending money among its members.

It is engaged in a wide range of financial activities such as lending, investment, and insurance.

Regulation

Regulated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

Regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (ROI).

Activities

The companies are not allowed to engage in any other financial activities such as insurance, chit funds, or hire-purchase financing.

It can engage in a wide range of financial activities.

Membership

It is required to have a minimum of 200 members.

There is no minimum membership requirement.

Net Owned Funds

It is required to have a net-owned fund of at least Rs. 10 lakhs.

There is no minimum net-owned fund requirement.

Prior Approval from RBI

Requires prior approval from RBI regarding the commencement of Business Activities.

No need to obtain prior approval from RBI regarding the commencement of Business Activities.

Registration Process

Involves comparatively fewer compliance requirements than an NBFC.

Lengthy in nature and involves a lot of compliance and intricacies.

Partnership

Not eligible to enter into a partnership with any other business format for the purpose of lending and borrowing.

No such condition or restriction is applicable.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nidhi companies and NBFCs are two types of financial institutions that operate in India. While both Nidhi companies registration and NBFCs are regulated by the RBI, they have different characteristics and serve different purposes. Nidhi companies are primarily involved in borrowing and lending money among its members, while NBFCs can engage in a wide range of financial activities such as lending, investment, and insurance. Understanding the similarities and differences between Nidhi companies and NBFCs can help individuals and businesses choose the best financial institution for their needs.

Siddhi Jain

Siddhi Jain (B.A.LLB) is a young and passionate Content Writer at Ebizfiling Private Limited. She enjoys reading and writing about legal topics and simplifying complex legal concepts for a wider audience. Her goal is to continue growing as a content writer and to become a subject matter expert in legal and business topics.

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