Credit
Credit Bureaus
pronounced: [C-r-e-d-i-t- -B-u-r-e-a-u-s]
Companies that collect and maintain credit information on individuals and businesses from banks, NBFCs, and other lenders.
In India, four SEBI-registered bureaus operate: CIBIL, Experian, Equifax, and CRIF High Mark.
Example
Ravi applies for a home loan. His CIBIL score is 720 — considered "fair". With a score above 750, he would get a loan at 8.5% p.a. Instead, the bank offers 9% p.a. A 20-year ₹50 lakh loan at 9% costs ₹44,986/month vs ₹40,680/month at 8.5% — ₹4,306 more every month.
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Last updated: 21 May 2026