Most investors place significant emphasis on sales and its growth, but this metric may be relevant in sectors other than banking. Instead of solely concentrating on sales growth, banks must prioritize loan recovery in the banking sector. It is relatively easy to grant loans regardless of the creditworthiness of the borrower, but it becomes exceedingly challenging to recover them. If a bank fails to recover a loan, it is categorized as a Non-Performing Asset (NPA). In this article, we will explore Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) and the topics related to them.
Non-Performing Asset (NPA)
Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) refer to loans or advances for which borrowers have ceased making interest or principal repayments. These assets are labelled as non-performing because they cease to generate income for the lending institution. The Reserve Bank of India has established some criteria for categorizing assets as NPAs. An asset is classified as non-performing when the interest or principal payment is overdue by 90 days or longer.
Read in Detail: RBI and its Monetary Policy Committee
Assessing Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) is vital for banks, as it offers valuable insights into their asset quality and aids in recognizing potential risks. Elevated levels of NPAs can exert pressure on a bank’s capital reserves, diminish profitability, and influence investor confidence. Through the monitoring and effective management of NPAs, banks can uphold a robust loan portfolio, thereby safeguarding their financial stability and fostering long-term growth. Furthermore, NPA is classified into Gross and Net NPA Let’s quickly understand both.
Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA)
GNPA encompasses the total value of loans within a bank’s portfolio categorized as non-performing. This figure is determined by adding up all loan accounts meeting the RBI’s non-performing criteria. It provides an overview of the bank’s asset quality and the magnitude of stressed assets in its loan portfolio.
It is influenced by several factors. Economic downturns can lower borrower repayment capabilities due to reduced demand for goods and services. Inadequate credit appraisal can lead to NPAs as risky borrower defaults. Overleveraging, sector-specific challenges (e.g., infrastructure), and intentional defaults also contribute to NPA growth.
Elevated Gross NPAs harm a bank’s financial health by reducing profitability, requiring higher provisions, limiting lending capacity, and eroding investor confidence.
Net Non-Performing Assets (Net NPA)
NNPA reflects the real financial impact on a bank once provisions for non-performing loans are considered. It is derived by subtracting total provisions from Gross NPA. Net NPA offers a more precise evaluation of the bank’s asset quality and financial well-being.
A low Net NPA ratio indicates adequate provisioning, signifying effective risk management and financial health. Conversely, a high Net NPA ratio suggests potential under-provisioning, exposing the bank to losses that can harm profitability, capital adequacy, and overall financial health. For investors, regulators, and stakeholders, Net NPA is a vital gauge of asset quality, risk management, and financial stability.
Here are the most recent quarter’s GNPA and NNPA ratios for top banks. Please note that HDFC Bank is excluded due to its merger with HDFC Ltd, and SBI Bank has yet to report September quarter returns.
Read: Analysis Of HDFC Bank’s PAT Growth
| Bank Name | Q2 FY24 | |
| GNPA Ratio % | NNPA Ratio % | |
| ICICI Bank | 2.48 | 0.43 |
| IndusInd Bank | 1.93 | 0.57 |
| Axis Bank | 1.73 | 0.36 |
| Kotak Mahindra Bank | 1.72 | 0.37 |
Understanding both the GNPA and NNPA is crucial for investors, regulators, and stakeholders when evaluating a bank’s asset quality, risk management, and financial well-being. Vigilant tracking and management of these metrics enable banks to protect their financial standing and play a role in upholding the stability and growth of the broader financial system.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making related decisions.
