Mumbai : Gujarat has consolidated its position as one of India’s largest and most stable lending markets, ranking among the top five states by active loan volumes, according to CRIF High Mark’s first Credit Insight Report (data as of November 2025). The state accounts for over 256 lakh active loans, reflecting a credit ecosystem driven largely by financially mature borrowers and a balanced mix of secured and unsecured lending.
Mature borrowers anchor Gujarat’s loan growth
Unlike youth-dominated credit markets where small-ticket personal loans drive volumes, Gujarat’s lending profile is shaped by borrowers in their prime and post-prime earning years. The report shows that borrowers aged 31–40 hold the highest number of active loans at 93.9 lakh, followed by 57.3 lakh loans among the 41–50 age group. Borrowers below 30 account for over 71 lakh loans, while those aged 50 and above contribute 33.8 lakh active loans.
This age composition highlights that a significant share of Gujarat’s credit demand originates from borrowers aged 31 years and above, typically associated with higher credit stability, longer loan tenures and asset ownership.
Young borrowers drive volume growth nationally
At the all-India level, CRIF High Mark’s analysis indicates that credit expansion is being propelled by the rapid entry of young borrowers into the formal financial system. Borrowers aged 26–30 recorded the fastest growth in borrower base, while those 25 and below accounted for 35.5% of new-to-credit loan volumes, underscoring strong first-time borrower onboarding nationwide.
However, despite higher volumes from younger segments, the value of lending continues to be dominated by prime earners. Borrowers in the 31–40 age bracket account for the largest share of portfolio outstanding and active loans across India.
Secured lending underpins portfolio quality
The report highlights that unsecured products—such as personal loans, consumer durable loans and credit cards—dominate borrower volumes, particularly among younger customers. In contrast, home loans and auto loans form the bulk of portfolio value, primarily driven by borrowers aged 31–50.
This dynamic reinforces the strength of mature credit markets like Gujarat, where a higher concentration of borrowers in asset-owning age groups supports deeper, longer-tenure and more resilient loan portfolios.
Gujarat outperforms several large states
With over 256 lakh active loans, Gujarat ranks ahead of major states such as Telangana, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh. While markets like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra are more skewed towards younger borrowers, Gujarat’s loan book is more evenly distributed across prime and older age segments, contributing to greater stability and sustainability.
Industry observers note that this positions Gujarat as a preferred market for banks and NBFCs seeking growth in home finance, vehicle loans and business credit, reinforcing the state’s reputation as one of India’s most reliable and mature lending hubs.