DHFL expects five-fold jump in SME loans by 2018

Dewan Housing Finance (DHFL) is expecting a five-fold jump in small and medium enterprises (SME) loans by 2018 as part of its business diversification plan. The mortgage lender's SME lending business has grown to over Rs 1,100 crore in just one year.

The company has focussed on segments like medical equipment, educational institutions and plant and machinery as part of its growth strategy. The company has a customer base of nearly 1,200 units spread across tier II and III markets.

DHFL provides term loans against property. Loans up to Rs 20 crore are offered with flexible tenure ranging upto 15 years. For the third quarter ended December, DHFL reported a 16.4 per cent rise in net profit at Rs 185.90 crore on higher loan disbursements.