Meaning: -Banks are an integral part of economy and provide short term to long
term loans. Banks also provide a wide range of services in an economy. They not
only promote saving habit within the economy but also use these savings to disburse
loans to companies, firms and individuals for business resulting in capital
formation.
Types of bank credits:
There are number of bank credit products in
the market. However, the major types of bank credits which provide both short
term and long term funding are as follows:
1.
Over draft: -It is a credit facility provided by banks on current accounts. The
banks allow their current account holders to withdraw money upto the credit
limit in excess of balance in the account. The credit limit is approved by the
bank depending on customer relationship, credit risk of customer etc. no
security is needed by the bank. The overdraft needs to be repaid before the due
date fixed by the bank. Internet is payable only on the overdraft amount.
2.
Cash Credit: - There is not much of a difference between overdraft and cash credit.
The cash credit also works in similar manner as overdraft where the bank
sanctions a credit limit on the current account. The account holder can
withdraw the amount of credit limit sanctioned in excess of his account
balance. However the only difference here being that the cash credit is
provided on the basis of some security pledged or hypothecated (some form of
security is given to bank) with the bank. Interest is charged only on the cash
credit used and for the period of use.
3.
Term Loans: -Banks provide
term loans for business purpose. The term loans are given for specific period
of time. The loan is sanctioned after evaluating the credit risk of the
customer. Amount is repaid in instalments over the term loan. Interest is
payable on reducing balance method i.e. on the principal amount being unpaid.
