Detailed Narrative
Q3 FY26 Financial Performance Overview
Finkurve Financial Services reported robust growth in Q3 FY26, with Assets Under Management (AUM) increasing by 118% year-on-year, reaching ₹833 crores from ₹381 crores. The company's branch network expanded significantly from 72 to 98 branches. Profit After Tax (PAT) demonstrated strong performance, growing by 18% quarter-on-quarter and 24% year-on-year, while overall income grew by 31% year-on-year. Asset quality remained strong with Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) maintained below 2%, outperforming the industry average of 3%.
Capital Structure and Net Interest Margin (NIM)
The company's current leverage stands at 1.67x, following an equity infusion of ₹111 crores in May. This low leverage has contributed to a higher Net Interest Margin (NIM) of 15% compared to the industry average of 11-12%. Management indicated that as leverage increases towards their target of 3x-4x, NIM is expected to normalize closer to the industry average. Return on Assets (ROA) is currently between 3.5% to 4%, and Return on Equity (ROE) is 8% to 9%, which are areas the company is actively working to improve through increased leverage.
Growth Strategy and Outlook
Finkurve aims for a sustainable AUM growth rate of 40% to 50% going forward⏳, building on its current base. The company plans to add 50 to 60 new branches in FY26, expanding its network by 40% to 50% over the next 1-1.5 years. This growth is expected to be risk-adjusted and focused on profitability, avoiding aggressive pricing or relaxed underwriting. The company emphasizes its commitment to remaining a pure-play gold NBFC, with gold loans consistently forming over 90% of its loan book.
Technology and Operational Efficiency
The company leverages a next-generation, technology-enabled model, with its tech stack built completely in-house. Technology is primarily used for risk control, customer experience, and operating efficiency. Management stated that incremental tech costs for branch expansion are minimal as core investments are already made. AI is being utilized to automate repetitive and manual processes, improving turnaround times and overall efficiency without compromising risk controls.
Asset Quality and Collection Efficiency
Finkurve maintains a strong focus on asset quality, with NPAs consistently below 2%. The average collection efficiency for the quarter was 94%. Management confirmed that there are no significant state-wise trends or difficulties in collection, with business as usual across all states. The company's prudent underwriting and strong credit discipline are key to its operational model.
Co-lending and Funding Mix
The company is exploring co-lending, with a target to achieve a co-lending proportion of 10% to 15% of its overall AUM in the next year. Management clarified that co-lending primarily impacts the finance side and cost of funds, with no major differences in operational workflow or customer experience compared to on-book lending. The funding mix currently consists of a fair blend of banks, financial institutions, and NCDs, with a target ratio of two-thirds to one-third or 60-40 in the coming years.
Product Mix and Revenue Streams
A shift in product strategy was noted regarding the Personal Loan (PL) product. Previously a 30-day high-churn product, it is being transitioned into a 3-6 month EMI-based product. This change is expected to spread out yields and has impacted fee and commission income, which moderated year-on-year. The company's Rate of Interest (ROI) charged to customers remains healthy at around 19.5%.