Cholamandalam Investment & Finance (CHOLAFIN) is one of India's highest-quality retail NBFCs. It has consistently delivered above-industry growth while maintaining good asset quality and profitability. It is part of the Murugappa Group, which has a strong reputation for governance.
Investment Positives
1. Strong AUM Growth
Management is guiding for 20–23% annual AUM growth in FY27.
FY26 AUM grew around 21%, driven by vehicle finance, LAP, home loans and newer businesses like gold loans.
2. Diversified Loan Book
The company is gradually reducing dependence on vehicle finance.
Current business mix is shifting towards:
Vehicle Finance
Loan Against Property (LAP)
Home Loans
SME Loans
Consumer Loans
Gold Loans (fastest-growing segment)
This diversification reduces business risk.
3. Improving Asset Quality
Recent management commentary indicates:
Lower Stage-2 assets
Improving collections
Credit cost expected around 1.5%
This is a positive indicator for future profitability.
4. High Profitability
Historically CHOLAFIN has maintained:
ROA around 3%+
ROE around 18–20%
Very few NBFCs consistently achieve these numbers.
5. Excellent Management
Murugappa Group companies are known for
conservative lending
disciplined underwriting
strong governance
long-term capital allocation
This is one of the biggest strengths of CHOLAFIN.