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Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets Objectives, Functions and Importance

The Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act empowers banks to recover non-performing assets without court intervention, streamlining debt recovery. Learn more about the SARFAESI Act, 2002, here!
authorImageJatin Sharma30 May, 2024
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Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets

Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest: The Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act, 2002, empowers banks and financial institutions in India to effectively manage and recover non-performing assets (NPAs) without the lengthy court processes. This legislation facilitates the conversion of defaulted loans into marketable securities, which can then be sold to recover outstanding dues.

Additionally, the act provides lenders with the authority to reconstruct or manage the distressed assets, including rescheduling payment terms or selling parts of the assets. To ensure seamless operations, a comprehensive register, incorporating Know Your Customer (KYC) details, is maintained in both electronic and non-electronic formats. Aspiring JAIIB/CAIIB candidates and banking professionals can find comprehensive details here on the objectives, significance, and mechanisms of the Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act, 2002.

What is SARFAESI Act, 2002?

The Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act, governed by Section 13(2), plays a crucial role in the banking sector. Banks and financial institutions lend money to individuals and organizations, who, in turn, invest it for various purposes. However, sometimes borrowers are unable to repay their loans due to investment losses or fraudulent activities. Previously, recovering these dues through the court was a lengthy process. Section 13(2) of this act grants banks and financial institutions the authority to recover dues using different procedures. If a borrower defaults on their debt repayment or installment, the lender can classify the account as non-performing and issue a notice to the borrower. Furthermore, if the borrower fails to respond within sixty days, the lender can take necessary actions to recover the dues as per the provisions of the act.

Objectives of the Enforcement Security Interest Act

The Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act, 2002 seeks to accomplish numerous goals. Check here for complete details on the Objectives of Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act:
  1. Efficient Recovery of NPAs: One of the main goals of the act is to enable financial institutions to swiftly and effectively recover non-performing assets (NPAs).
  2. Legal Framework for Securitization: It provides a legal framework for conducting securitization activities, allowing financial institutions to convert non-performing assets into marketable securities.
  3. Auctioning Properties: The act allows financial institutions to auction off properties pledged as collateral when borrowers fail to repay their loans, ensuring that the lenders can recover their dues.
Some loans, however, are not covered under this act. These include:
  • Loans where the amount owed is less than 20% of the principal and interest.
  • Transactions governed by the Sale of Goods Act or the Indian Contract Act.
  • Leases that do not involve any security interest.
  • Assets covered under section 60 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908.
This act provides a legal framework to streamline the recovery process for financial institutions while also ensuring certain limitations and exclusions to protect the interests of borrowers and maintain fairness in the financial system. Also Read: Asset Classification and NPA Management

How SARFAESI Act, 2002 Functions?

The SARFAESI Act, 2002, empowers banks and financial institutions to take action against defaulting borrowers. Here are some important points on How SARFAESI Act, 2002 works:
  1. Classification of Non-Performing Assets (NPAs): When borrowers default on loan repayments, the financial institution can classify the account as a Non-Performing Asset (NPA).
  2. Notice Issuance: The institution can issue notices to defaulting borrowers, giving them a 60-day period to settle their dues.
  3. Recourse for Financial Institutions: If the borrower fails to comply with the notice, the SARFAESI Act provides the following options for the financial institution:
    1. Take possession of the loan security.
    2. Lease, sell, or assign the right to the security.
    3. Manage the security or appoint someone to manage it.
  4. Establishment of Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs): The Act allows for the establishment of ARCs, which are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). These ARCs acquire assets from banks and other financial institutions, facilitating the management and recovery of distressed assets.
The SARFAESI Act provides a legal framework for banks and financial institutions to effectively recover dues from defaulting borrowers, ensuring the stability and integrity of the financial system.

Central Registry of Securitisation Asset Reconstruction (CERSAI)

The Central Registry of Securitisation Asset Reconstruction, known as CERSAI, was established under Section 20(1) of the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act, 2002. It was authorized in 2015 to operate the central KYC record registry to combat money laundering. Under Section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956, companies are mandated to maintain this registry on behalf of the Central Government. The primary stakeholders of CERSAI include the Indian government, public sector banks, and the National Housing Bank. The key objectives of the Central Registry of Securitisation Asset Reconstruction (CERSAI) are:
  • Centralizing Mortgage Registration: It centralizes the registration of equitable mortgages, streamlining the process for financial institutions.
  • Registration of Securitization Transactions: Financial institutions can register transactions related to asset securitization and reconstruction, ensuring transparency and accountability.
  • Inclusion of Security Interests: CERSAI also registers security interests established through factoring or accounts receivables, expanding its scope beyond traditional mortgages.
  • Extension of Functions: Over time, CERSAI's functions have been extended to include the registration of security interests on tangible assets and various types of mortgages prevalent in India.
Financial institutions have the option to register on the CERSAI platform, enabling them to access information on assets or properties to verify if any other lender has created additional security interests. This centralized registry plays a crucial role in enhancing transparency and efficiency in the management of financial assets and security interests under the SARFAESI Act, 2002. Also Read: Payment Systems and Electronic Banking: Meaning, Types, Benefits and Regulations

Importance of Enforcement Security Interest Act, 2002

The SARFAESI Act, 2002 is crucial for the financial sector. Here, we've mentioned the details on the Importance of Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and the Enforcement of Security Interest Act, 2002:
  1. Empowerment of Financial Institutions: The SARFAESI Act grants authority to financial institutions, enabling them to take effective action to recover debts. This empowerment enhances their ability to manage risks associated with non-performing assets (NPAs).
  2. Reduction of Fraud: Implementation of the SARFAESI Act has resulted in a decrease in fraudulent activities within the financial sector. The act provides mechanisms for asset reconstruction, which helps institutions recover their money more efficiently.
  3. Asset Reconstruction: The act allows lenders to reconstruct assets, giving them the flexibility to manage or sell parts or the entirety of the asset. This flexibility improves the recovery process and increases the likelihood of recovering dues.
  4. Rights for Borrowers: The SARFAESI Act also safeguards the rights of borrowers. In cases of default caused by officer misconduct or grievances, borrowers have the right to seek compensation or rectification.
  5. Enhanced Financial Stability: By streamlining the process of debt recovery and asset reconstruction, the SARFAESI Act contributes to the overall stability of the financial sector. It ensures that financial institutions can efficiently manage their resources and mitigate risks associated with non-performing assets, ultimately fostering a more resilient and robust banking system.
The SARFAESI Act plays a vital role in ensuring the stability and efficiency of the financial system by empowering institutions, reducing fraud, facilitating asset reconstruction, and protecting the interests of borrowers. Also Read: Loans & Advances Furthermore, the Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act, 2002, empowers banks to efficiently recover non-performing assets, ensuring the stability of the financial sector. It emphasizes the importance of timely debt recovery and risk management, highlighting proactive measures for financial institutions. Therefore, Physics Wallah (PW) stands as the top coaching institute for JAIIB and CAIIB students, offering expert guidance and comprehensive study materials. With a proven track record and experienced educators, PW provides the support needed for academic excellence and career growth in the banking industry.

Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets FAQs

Q1. What is the SARFAESI Act?

Ans. The Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act, 2002, gives banks and financial institutions the power to recover their non-performing assets (NPAs) without needing court intervention. It allows them to take action to reclaim loans that borrowers have defaulted on.

Q2. What is the objective of Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets Act?

Ans. The objective of the SARFAESI Act is to enable banks and financial institutions to auction residential or commercial properties to recover their loans. This helps them recoup losses from defaulted loans more efficiently.

Q3. What is Section 17 of the SARFAESI Act?

Ans. Section 17 of the Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act provides borrowers with the right to appeal against actions taken by banks. They can appeal within 45 days of the bank's actions.

Q4. What assets are not covered under the Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act, 2002?

Ans. The SARFAESI Act doesn't apply to money or securities governed by the Indian Contract Act or the Sale of Goods Act, 1930. It also excludes conditional sales, leases, or hire-purchase agreements where no security interest has been created.

Q5. How does CERSAI help the act?

Ans. CERSAI allows financial institutions to register themselves and access information on financial assets. This helps validate if another lender has created security interests on the same assets, ensuring transparency and preventing disputes.
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