ML Transforms Indian Credit: 93% Lenders See Higher Approvals

Machine learning is revolutionizing how Indians access credit. According to a new Experian report conducted by Forrester Consulting, 93% of lenders using ML for vehicle loans are seeing higher approval rates, while 90% have successfully reduced bad debt in credit cards. The technology is opening doors for millions previously excluded from formal banking.

Key Findings: ML Impact on Indian Lending

Financial Inclusion Through Advanced Analytics

The research reveals that 79% of ML adopters can now responsibly serve customer segments that traditional credit scoring systems often reject. This includes thin-file borrowers and new-to-credit consumers who lack extensive financial histories.

Manish Jain, Country Managing Director at Experian India, emphasized the transformative nature of this shift: “ML is not just improving acceptance rates and reducing bad debt; it is helping build more transparent, efficient, and inclusive credit journeys.”

By analyzing richer datasets and using advanced analytical techniques, ML models make more accurate assessments while managing risk effectively. The dual benefit of expanding access while strengthening portfolio quality makes ML a strategic asset for sustainable growth.

Automation and Efficiency Gains

Looking ahead, 78% of respondents predict most credit decisions will be fully automated within five years. Currently, 71% agree that ML enables them to automate more decisions, reducing manual workloads significantly.

Generative AI is emerging as a productivity powerhouse, with 84% believing it can reduce model development time. Additionally, 70% see its biggest advantage in streamlining regulatory documentation.

Barriers to Adoption Remain

Despite clear benefits, 65% of non-adopters view implementation costs as prohibitive, while 44% don’t fully understand ML’s value. Concerns around model transparency (54%) and regulatory compliance (55%) persist, compounded by legacy IT infrastructure challenges.

For more insights on digital lending trends, download the complete Experian report.

FAQs