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What is Consumer Finance and How is it Different from Credit Cards?
Posted on Thursday, August 8th, 2024 | By IndusInd Bank
Whether you want to buy the latest smartphone or pay for a high-end medical treatment, banks and financial institutions offer a host of financing options. Two popular choices include consumer finance and credit cards. Most people may be more familiar with the latter. However, as financing options widen, consumer finance is also gaining ground.
This article explores what consumer finance is, its pros and cons, and how it differs from credit cards.
What is Consumer Finance?
- Consumer finance refers to a range of financial products and services offered by banks to help individuals get access to goods and services.
- This includes personal loans, auto loans, mortgages, student loans, and even credit cards.
- Consumer finance can refer to any financing option that enables individuals to make purchases, manage debt, or invest in their future.
- Consumer finance caters to individuals and families. It helps provide consumers with funds they can repay with interest over a specified period.
Pros and Cons of Consumer Finance
Now that you know what consumer finance is, let’s look at some of its advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
1. Increased Purchasing Power: Consumer finance allows individuals to make large purchases, even if they do not have the funds now.
2. Flexibility and Convenience: Consumer finance offers a variety of options. Users can choose a financing plan that best suits their needs and budget.
3. Improved Credit Score: Responsible use of consumer finance products can help build a positive credit history.
Cons:
1. Debt Accumulation: Over-reliance on consumer finance can lead to a cycle of debt if not managed responsibly.
2. Interest Charges: Most consumer finance products come with interest rates. This may increase the overall cost of borrowing.
3. Chances of Financial Strain: Unexpected life events can make it difficult to keep up with loan repayments.
Difference Between Consumer Finance and Credit Card
Credit cards fall under the umbrella of consumer finance. However, it is important to understand the key difference between credit and finance in a broader sense.
Let’s take a closer look at the difference between finance and credit cards:
| Parameter | Consumer Finance | Credit Card |
| Usage and Flexibility | Consumer finance involves fixed-term loans with a specific purpose and repayment schedule. Funds are often disbursed for specific purchases or needs only. | Credit cards offer greater flexibility in usage and repayment. You can choose to pay the minimum amount due, the full balance, or any amount in between. Also, one can use them for a variety of transactions, including online shopping and bill payments. |
| Repayment Structure | A consumer finance product has a structured repayment plan with fixed monthly instalments. The borrower pays these instalments over a predetermined period. | Credit cards offer revolving credit. This allows the cardholder to borrow and repay funds up to their credit limit repeatedly. |
| Interest Rates | Interest rates on consumer finance vary depending on the type of loan, the loan amount, and your creditworthiness. | If the total outstanding amount is not repaid by the due date, the credit card issuing bank levies an interest on the amount due for payment. Interest rates can be dynamic, depending on the bank’s policies. |
Understanding the difference between credit and finance can help you make the best choice for your financial situation.
Also Read: Benefits of a Credit Card – 10 Reasons Why to Use a Credit Card
Conclusion
Consumer finance is ideal for specific expenses with structured repayments. However, credit cards offer flexibility, convenience, and rewards. Regardless of which product one chooses, it is important to review the terms and conditions of each product and choose wisely.
To enjoy the flexibility and convenience of Credit Cards, consider applying for a Credit Card with IndusInd Bank. Enjoy reward points on every transaction, complimentary movie tickets and airport lounge access, fuel surcharge waiver, lifestyle privileges and more. What’s more? Pay zero joining or annual fees with our lifetime-free credit card range.
Apply Now for a Lifetime-Free Credit Card with IndusInd Bank now!
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is generic and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your circumstances. Hence, you are advised to consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision. IndusInd Bank Limited (IBL) does not influence the views of the author in any way. IBL and the author shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for making any financial decisions based on the contents and information.
