#Business Loan Providers In India

[grdindia]

business loan

[financesevaloan]

Business Loan in India

Basically, every business faces a monetary or financial crisis at a certain period of development to meet their financial requirements. There may be various reasons for getting these loans which depend on the type of business loans in India.  

The borrowed funds are used for upgrading or installing plants, hiring new employees, the growth and expansion of a business, revamping old machinery, restructuring the debt, marketing, and promotion of a business, managing cash flow, purchasing the inventory, buying raw materials, and many more.

The business expenses obtained to maintain & run operations can be removed from the entire business revenue to avail taxable income.

There are many business expenses which are not a part of revenue i.e., wages paid to the staff and employees, bonus paid to employees, gifts, meals and entertainment expenses, rental cost of office premises, advertising & marketing expenses, office supplies like stationery, daily maintenance cost, etc...

Many banks and NBFCs provide business loans for new and existing business at an attractive rate of interest @14.50% onwards per annum with the flexible repayment tenure.

Business funding are of many types like letter of credit, working capital loan, bill discounting, overdraft facility, equipment finance, machinery loan, small business finance, micro loan, term loan, merchant cash advance, farm, or construction equipment finance.

[offringfinancialservices]

Best Business Loan Provider in India - Offeringfinserve. Offering Finserve Services Business Loan for Self-Employed Non-Professional Gives Loan Service Provider in India. Offering Finserve Is the Best Business Loan Provider Company in India.

[fatehbaz]

[T]he advent of imperialism in Myanmar. [...] [An] episode in the history of the ecological impact of imperialism [...]. During the late nineteenth century and into the early twentieth century, Myanmar [British "Burma"] became one of the world's biggest exporters of hardwoods. [...] The rapid development of the timber industry was a vital motor in the expansion of capitalist and colonial relations in this often neglected corner of the Raj. Teak traders financed from Britain were vocal in lobbying Westminster and the [British] Government of India to colonise the [...] territory [...]. Following the eventual annexation of upper Myanmar in 1885, they continued to inveigle the local government into interceding on their behalf in the borderlands [...]. The booming rice industry developed alongside the growth of the teak industry [...]. Like teak extraction, rice cultivation in Myanmar was of transnational importance.

The rich alluvial soil provided fertile ground for the Ayeyarwady delta to undergo a dramatic transformation to become the largest rice-producing region in the world, having a ripple effect across the global cereal market. The white rice exported from Myanmar fed colonised labouring peoples (and some non-human animals) engaged in commodity production across the Empire, most notably in neighbouring Bengal. The delta was crucial to an interdependent network of food security established through and underpinning British imperialism.

The changes on the delta itself were profound, both socially and ecologically. [...] [F]rom the 1850s what was still predominantly a mangrove-forested backwater at the margins of political power became a febrile hive of activity.

Sparsely populated, isolated hamlets, hemmed in by the thick jungles and thickets of dense grass in the tidal delta, became enmeshed in an extensive tapestry of paddy fields, their populations growing fivefold to become thriving commercial hubs, connected by a busy riverine transport network to the bustling imperial port cities of Akyab (now Sittwe), Mawlamyine and Yangon. [...] Thick forest needed to be felled, the undergrowth burnt, and the remaining dense network of roots dug out [...]. Even then, they were in a precarious position. [...] This work was underpinned by heavy borrowing, mostly from local Burmese and overseas Indian sources, and misfortune could lead to them defaulting on their loan and losing their land to their creditor. [...] [P]rimary producers did not retain the wealth generated through rice production, and many agriculturalists were in a vulnerable position when the market went into crisis in the early 1930s. [...]

---

All text above by: Jonathan Saha. “Accumulations and Cascades: Burmese Elephants and the Ecological Impact of British Imperialism.” Transactions of the Royal Historical Society, 32, pp. 177-197. 2022. [Bold emphasis and some paragraph breaks/contractions added by me. Presented here for commentary, teaching, criticism purposes.]

[beardedgardenbluebird]

Understanding the Importance of Credit Ratings for SMEs, MSMEs, and Startups in India

In the ever-evolving landscape of the Indian economy, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and startups play a pivotal role. These entities not only drive innovation but also create significant employment opportunities and contribute extensively to the GDP. However, one of the fundamental challenges they face is access to capital. This is where the importance of a robust credit rating comes into play.

Why is Credit Rating Crucial?

1. Access to Finance: Credit ratings determine the creditworthiness of a business. A high credit rating reassures lenders of the lower risk involved in extending credit to the business. This can lead to easier access to loans, lower interest rates, and more favorable repayment terms. For SMEs, MSMEs, and startups, which typically face higher scrutiny from financial institutions, a good credit rating can open doors to essential funding.

2. Credibility with Suppliers: A strong credit rating not only helps in securing finance but also enhances the business's credibility in the eyes of suppliers. Companies with better credit ratings can negotiate better credit terms such as longer payment durations and bulk order discounts, which can significantly improve cash flow management.

3. Competitive Advantage: In a market teeming with competition, a good credit rating can serve as a badge of reliability and sound financial health. This can be particularly beneficial in tendering processes where the financial stability of a business is a key consideration.

4. Lower Borrowing Costs: Businesses with higher credit ratings can secure loans at lower interest rates. Lower borrowing costs mean that the business can invest more in its growth and development, improving profitability and sustainability over time. This is especially critical for SMEs, MSMEs, and startups, where financial leverage can determine market positioning and long-term success.

How to Improve Your Credit Rating?

Improving and maintaining a good credit rating requires a strategic approach, including timely repayment of loans, prudent financial management, maintaining a balanced debt-to-income ratio, and regular monitoring of credit reports for any discrepancies.

Need Expert Guidance?

Understanding the nuances of credit ratings and effectively managing them can be complex. This is where expert financial advisory services, such as those offered by Finnova Advisory, come into play. Finnova Advisory specializes in providing tailored financial solutions that cater specifically to the unique needs of SMEs, MSMEs, and startups in India. 

Whether you are looking to improve your credit score, secure funding, or streamline your financial strategies, connecting with the experts at Finnova Advisory can provide you with the insights and support you need to thrive in a competitive marketplace.

To learn more about how Finnova Advisory can assist your business in achieving financial excellence, visit their website or reach out directly for a personalized consultation. Remember, a robust credit rating is your gateway to not only securing finance but also establishing a strong foundation for your business's future growth and success.

[ankitaatd07]

Bookmarking Title: Avail Small Business Loan with ATD-Money

Seeking immediate funds? Get the mini loan you need instant with our Payday loans service in India. Whether it's covering unexpected expenses or seizing opportunities, ATD-Money provide loans with minimal hassle. With easy application processes and swift approval, you can get the funds you need without the wait. Say goodbye to long queues and paperwork– Apply now and get the funds you need, instantly with ATD-Money!

Website URL: www.atdmoney.com

[pridepaths]

Top Challenges Facing Small Businesses in Kerala and How Consultants Can Help

Kerala is known for its thriving small business landscape from restaurants to shops to technology startups. However, many promising small businesses in business consultants in Kerala struggle with common obstacles that stifle their growth and progress.

Business consultants based in Kerala or working with clients in the state understand these pain points well. They can provide tailored guidance and actionable solutions to help small business owners overcome challenges. This enables entrepreneurs to focus their energy on nurturing innovation, attracting customers, and expanding their ventures.

Funding Shortages

Access to sufficient capital and cash flow is one of the biggest challenges for Kerala's small businesses. Many struggle to fund expansions, hire additional employees, invest in technology, or even manage day-to-day operating expenses. Business consultants may connect clients to government small business grants or loans. They can also design cost management plans, suggest bootstrapping strategies and tactics for minimizing expenses.

Compliance Issues Navigating India’s often complex regulatory framework around taxation, licensing requirements, labor laws and more causes headaches for small business owners in Kerala. Business consultants can ensure clients avoid penalties or litigation by staying compliant. They can handle license and permit registrations, file taxes correctly, advise on the best corporate structure, and manage other compliance processes.

Talent Gaps

Another persistent struggle is recruiting and retaining qualified employees — especially for technology roles. Kerala’s talent pool is still developing, so hyperlocal hiring can be difficult. Business consultants leverage professional networks to connect clients to candidates in Kerala or expand searches regionally/nationally. Retention consulting may also analyze workplace culture issues or present counteroffers/incentives to stop top performer attrition.

Scaling Pains

Many entrepreneurs in Kerala struggle with the nuances of expanding locally or into other major metros. Business consultants can provide market feasibility studies, assistance finalizing expansion locations, advice on financing growth, and project manage all moving parts of bringing a small business to new regions.

By leveraging business consultants as strategic partners, small business owners in Kerala can overcome obstacles, avoid missteps, and receive guidance tailored to local market dynamics. With the right support, Kerala’s many promising small ventures can thrive, expand, and continue fueling local economic development.For more details plz contact us, pridepaths.co.in

[pricemint]

How to Get the Best Personal Loan Offers in India

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced world, financial needs often arise unexpectedly. Whether it’s a medical emergency, a home renovation project, or a dream vacation, personal loans can provide the financial flexibility you need to make your aspirations a reality.

Pricemint, an Indian fintech platform, is dedicated to helping individuals unlock their financial potential by offering a straightforward and user-friendly process for obtaining personal loans.

Benefits:

Loan Comparison: Easily compare personal loan offers from multiple banks and financial institutions.

Competitive Interest Rates: Access low-interest rates and potentially save money over the loan tenure.

Convenient Digital Process: Apply for personal loans conveniently online, from anywhere.

Customized Loan Offers: Get loan offers tailored to your unique financial situation.

Flexible Loan Amounts: Choose from a wide range of loan amounts to suit your needs.

Varied Tenure Options: Select a repayment period that matches your financial circumstances.

Regional Considerations: Loan terms are adjusted to regional factors that may affect your eligibility.

Transparent Process: Clear information about interest rates, fees, and terms is provided.

Personalized Assistance: Receive guidance and support throughout the loan application process.

Privacy and Security: Your personal information is protected in accordance with their Privacy Policy.

How to Get the Best Personal Loan in a Minute –

Step 1: Select Your Employment Type

The first step in securing a personal loan through Pricemint is to define your employment status. Pricemint recognizes that different employment types may have distinct loan eligibility criteria. You can choose from the following options:

Salaried: Select this option if you are employed by a company and receive a regular salary.

Self-Employed Professional: If you work independently as a professional, this is the choice for you.

Business Owner: If you own a business, you can choose this option.

This initial step helps Pricemint tailor your loan options to your specific employment situation, ensuring that you receive the most relevant loan offers.

Step 2: Your Monthly Salary

Your monthly income plays a crucial role in determining your eligibility and the loan terms available to you. In this step, you will be asked to provide your monthly in-hand income. It’s essential to provide an accurate representation of your earnings to receive loan offers that align with your financial capacity.

Alternatively, you can simply type in your monthly income to expedite the process.

Step 3: Choose Your Primary Bank Account

Selecting the bank account for loan disbursement and repayments is the next step in the process. Your primary account should be the one you actively use for your financial transactions. Pricemint offers a list of popular banks to choose from, including HDFC BANK, SBI BANK, ICICI BANK, KOTAK BANK, AXIS BANK, BOB BANK, YES BANK, and an option for OTHER BANK. This choice ensures seamless loan disbursements and repayments.

Step 4: Provide Your Employment/Company Name

To gain deeper insights into your employment details, Pricemint requests the name of your employer or company. This information helps in assessing your financial stability and eligibility for personal loans.

Step 5: What’s Your Residence Type?

Understanding your living situation is crucial for evaluating your lifestyle and its financial implications. You will be asked to choose from various residence types:

Owned by You/Spouse

Owned by Parents

Rented with Family

Rented and Stay Alone

Company Provided

By selecting the option that best represents your current residence type, you help Pricemint tailor loan offers to your specific circumstances.

Step 6: Enter Your Current Residence City or Town

To consider regional factors that may affect your loan terms and eligibility, Pricemint requests the city or location where you currently reside. This information ensures that the loan offers you receive are in line with the conditions in your area.

Step 7: All Set! What’s Your Desired Loan Amount?

Finally, it’s time to specify the loan amount you wish to borrow. Pricemint offers a flexible range, catering to various financial needs. You can choose from the following options:

Under 1 Lakh

2/4 Lakh

5/9 Lakh

10 Lakh And Above

This wide range provides the

flexibility to select the loan amount that best suits your unique financial requirements.

Final Step – Enter Your Personal Details

In the last step, you will be required to enter your personal details, including:

Your Name

Your Email Address

Your Phone Number

This information is necessary to complete the application process and to contact you with personalized loan offers.

By clicking the “Get Offers/Apply Now/Continue” button, you indicate your acceptance of the Privacy Policy, ensuring the security of your personal information.

Conclusion

Pricemint makes obtaining personal loans in India a hassle-free process. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can seamlessly navigate the application process, receive personalized loan offers tailored to your unique circumstances, and secure the financial support you need to achieve your goals and secure your future.

With a wide range of loan amounts, flexible tenure options ranging from 3 months to 8 years, and the ability to compare multiple offers with different interest rates, Pricemint empowers you to make informed financial decisions and choose the best loan deal for your needs.

Don’t let financial constraints hold you back from pursuing your dreams and addressing your urgent financial needs. Unlock your financial potential with Pricemint’s user-friendly personal loan application process and take control of your financial future. Get started today and embark on your journey toward financial stability and prosperity.

[loansmantri]

Finding the Right Loan: A Guide to Loan Options and Choosing the Best Fit for You

Introduction 

Finding the right loan product to fit your needs can be a challenging process. With so many options like personal loans, home loans, and business loans, how do you know which is best suited for you? In this post, we'll provide an overview of the major loan products available and factors to consider when choosing one, as well as how Loans Mantri can help simplify the loan application process.

Loans Mantri is an online loan marketplace that partners with over 30 top financial institutions in India including names like HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank. No matter what type of loan you need, Loans Mantri aims to provide customized options and a seamless application experience through their digital platform. 

Whether you need funds for personal expenses, purchasing real estate, business financing or any other purpose, Loans Mantri can match you with the ideal lending product for your requirements from their network. Their online eligibility calculators and tools remove the guesswork from determining what loans you can qualify for based on your income, credit score and other details.

This post will walk through the key loan products offered through Loans Mantri and outline the most important points to factor in when deciding which option works for your financial situation. We'll also provide tips on how to apply and what to expect when going through Loans Mantri for your financing needs. Let's get started!

Types of Loans Available

Here are some of the major loan products offered through Loans Mantri's platform:

Personal Loans - These unsecured loans can be used for almost any personal purpose like debt consolidation, wedding expenses, home renovation, medical needs, or any other requirements. Interest rates are competitive and loan amounts can range from ₹50,000 to ₹25 lakhs based on eligibility.

Home Loans - Also called mortgage loans, these are for purchasing, constructing or renovating a residential property. Home loans offer extended repayment tenures of up to 30 years and relatively lower interest rates. The property becomes collateral against the loan amount.  

Business Loans - Loans Mantri offers financing for a wide range of business needs like working capital, equipment purchases, commercial vehicle loans, construction requirements and more. Loan amounts can be from ₹10 lakhs to multiple crores.

Loan Against Property - By using your existing property as collateral, you can get a secured, high-value loan in return through this product. Interest rates are lower and you can get up to 50% of your property's current market value.

Other Loan Products - Loans Mantri also facilitates other lending options like credit cards, line of credit, gold loans, insurance financing, merchant cash advance for businesses etc. as per eligibility.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Loan

When looking at the various loan options, here are some key factors to take into account:

- Loan amount required and ideal repayment tenure 

- Interest rates and processing/administration fees

- Your repayment capacity based on income and expenses

- Purpose of the loan - personal needs, business growth, property purchase etc.

- Collateral availability for secured loans like home and property loans

- Flexibility in repayment - moratorium periods, EMIs, tenure etc.  

- Prepayment and foreclosure charges, if any

Evaluating these parameters will help identify the loan that Aligns to your financial situation. Loansmantri's online tools also help estimate factors like eligibility amounts, EMIs, interest rates etc. to simplify decision making.

Applying for a Loan on Loans Mantri

The application process with Loans Mantri is quick, transparent and fully digital: 

- Use the eligibility calculator to get an estimated loan amount you can qualify for.

- Fill out the online application by providing basic personal and financial details. 

- Loans Mantri will run a soft credit check to view your credit score and report. This helps match products to your profile.

- Compare personalized loan quotes from multiple partner banks and NBFCs.

- Submit any required KYC documents and income proofs online.

- The application gets forwarded to the lender for further processing and approval.

- Track status directly through your Loansmantri dashboard. Get assistance from customer support if needed. 

Conclusion  

Loans Mantri aims to be a one-stop platform for all your lending needs. Their intuitive tools and partnerships with leading financial institutions help identify and apply for the ideal loan product for any purpose. Consider your requirements carefully and evaluate all options before choosing the right loan for your financial situation. With Loans Mantri, the entire process from application to disbursal can be completed digitally for an easier financing experience.

[grdindia]

Cheapest Home Loan in Delhi

Outline

I. Introduction

A. What is a home loan?

B. Importance of finding the cheapest home loan

II. Factors that determine the cost of a home loan

A. Interest rates

B. Loan tenure

C. Loan amount

D. Credit score

E. Down payment

F. Additional fees and charges

III. Strategies for finding the cheapest home loan in Delhi

A. Compare interest rates from different lenders

B. Negotiate with lenders

C. Improve your credit score

D. Save for a higher down payment

E. Consider government schemes and subsidies

IV. Best lenders offering cheap home loans in Delhi

A. Bank HDFC

B. Bank SBI

C. Bank CBI

V. Tips for managing your home loan effectively

A. Make regular repayments

B. Opt for a shorter tenure if possible

C. Refinance your loan if you find a better deal

D. Avoid defaulting on your payments

VI. Conclusion

A. Summary of key points

B. Importance of thorough research

C. Final thoughts on finding the cheapest home loan in Delhi

VII. FAQs

A. What is the minimum credit score required for a home loan?

B. Can I get a home loan with a low income?

C. How long does it take to get approval for a home loan?

D. Can I prepay my home loan?

E. Are there any tax benefits associated with home loans?

Cheapest Home Loan in Delhi

Introduction

When it comes to buying a home, one of the most crucial aspects to consider is securing a home loan. A home loan is a financial tool that helps individuals fulfill their dream of owning a house by providing them with the necessary funds. However, finding the cheapest home loan in Delhi is essential to ensure affordability and minimize the financial burden. In this article, we will explore the factors that determine the cost of a home loan, strategies for finding the cheapest home loan in Delhi, the best lenders offering cheap home loans, and tips for managing your home loan effectively.

Factors that Determine the Cost of a Home Loan

Interest Rates

Interest rates play a significant role in determining the overall cost of a home loan. Even a slight difference in interest rates can result in significant savings over the loan tenure. Therefore, it is crucial to compare interest rates offered by different lenders to find the most competitive option.

Loan Tenure

The loan tenure refers to the duration for which you will repay the home loan. Generally, a longer tenure leads to lower monthly installments but higher overall interest payments. On the other hand, a shorter tenure may result in higher monthly installments but lower overall interest costs. Choosing the right tenure based on your financial situation is vital to find the cheapest home loan.

Loan Amount

The loan amount is the total sum borrowed from the lender. The higher the loan amount, the greater the financial burden. It is advisable to borrow only the amount necessary to purchase your dream home. Carefully assess your financial capabilities before finalizing the loan amount.

Credit Score

Your credit score is an important factor considered by lenders to determine your creditworthiness. A higher credit score indicates a lower risk for the lender, which can lead to lower interest rates. It is essential to maintain a good credit score by paying bills and debts on time to secure a cheaper home loan.

Down Payment

The down payment is the initial amount paid by the borrower while purchasing a home. A higher down payment can result in lower loan amounts and, consequently, lower interest payments. Saving for a higher down payment is a prudent strategy to reduce the overall cost of a home loan.

Additional Fees and Charges

Apart from interest rates and the loan amount, there are various additional fees and charges associated with home loans, such as processing fees, legal fees, and administrative charges. These costs can vary between lenders, and it is crucial to consider them when comparing loan offers.

Strategies for Finding the Cheapest Home Loan in Delhi

Compare Interest Rates from Different Lenders

To find the cheapest home loan in Delhi, it is essential to compare interest rates from various lenders. Take advantage of online comparison tools and visit multiple lenders to understand their offerings. Consider factors like fixed or floating interest rates, introductory offers, and any special discounts.

Negotiate with Lenders

Negotiating with lenders can often result in better terms and conditions for your home loan. If you have a good credit score and a stable financial position, don't hesitate to negotiate for lower interest rates or reduced fees. Remember, lenders, want your business, so it's worth trying to get a better deal.

Improve Your Credit Score

As mentioned earlier, a higher credit score can lead to lower interest rates on your home loan. To improve your credit score, pay off outstanding debts, avoid taking on new loans, and maintain a clean credit history. Over time, a better credit score will open doors to more affordable loan options.

Save for a Higher Down Payment

While it may require additional time and effort, saving for a higher down payment can significantly impact the cost of your home loan. By reducing the loan amount, you can lower the interest payments and potentially secure a cheaper loan with better terms.

Consider Government Schemes and Subsidies

The government of India offers various schemes and subsidies to promote affordable housing. Research and explore options like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) or Delhi Development Authority (DDA) housing schemes. These initiatives can provide financial assistance or lower interest rates, making your home loan more affordable.

Best Lenders Offering Cheap Home Loans in Delhi

While there are numerous lenders providing home loans in Delhi, the following institutions are known for offering competitive rates and favorable terms:

Bank HDFC

Bank HDFC is renowned for its customer-centric approach and competitive interest rates. They have a simplified application process, quick approval times, and a range of loan products tailored to meet diverse customer needs.

Bank SBI

Bank SBI is a trusted name in the banking sector, offering attractive interest rates and flexible repayment options. Their customer service is highly rated, and they provide personalized solutions to make the home loan journey hassle-free.

Bank CBI

Bank CBI is known for its transparent and customer-friendly practices. They offer competitive interest rates, low processing fees, and efficient loan processing. With a strong presence in Delhi, Bank C is a reliable choice for homebuyers.

Tips for Managing Your Home Loan Effectively

Make Regular Repayments

Ensure that you make your monthly repayments on time without fail. Late payments can result in additional charges and penalties, negatively impacting your financial well-being. Set up automatic payments or reminders to stay on track.

Opt for a Shorter Tenure if Possible

If your financial situation allows, consider opting for a shorter loan tenure. Although it may increase your monthly installments, it can significantly reduce the interest payments over the life of the loan, helping you save money in the long run.

Refinance Your Loan if You Find a Better Deal

Keep an eye on the market and interest rate trends. If you come across a better home loan offer during the tenure of your loan, consider refinancing. Refinancing allows you to switch to a new lender with more favorable terms, potentially reducing your overall loan cost.

Avoid Defaulting on Your Payments

Defaulting on your home loan payments can have severe consequences, including damage to your credit score and the risk of losing your home. Prioritize your loan repayments and budget accordingly to avoid defaulting.

Conclusion

Finding the cheapest home loan in Delhi requires thorough research, comparison, and consideration of various factors. By focusing on interest rates, loan tenure, credit score, down payment, and additional charges, you can identify the most affordable option. Remember to explore government schemes and subsidies, negotiate with lenders, and manage your loan effectively to ensure a smooth homebuying journey.

FAQs

Q: What is the minimum credit score required for a home loan?

The minimum credit score required for a home loan can vary between lenders. Generally, a score of 650 or above is considered favorable for securing competitive interest rates.

Q: Can I get a home loan with a low income?

Yes, it is possible to get a home loan with a low income. However, lenders may assess your repayment capacity and consider other factors, such as your credit score and existing debts, before approving the loan.

Q: How long does it take to get approval for a home loan?

The approval process for a home loan can vary depending on the lender and the completeness of your application. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to get approval.

Q: Can I prepay my home loan?

Yes, most lenders allow borrowers to prepay their home loans either partially or in full before the completion of the loan tenure. However, check the terms and conditions of your loan agreement for any prepayment penalties.

Q: Are there any tax benefits associated with home loans?

Yes, home loans offer certain tax benefits in India. Under Section 24(b) and Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, borrowers can claim deductions on the interest paid on the home loan and the principal amount repaid, respectively.

[mariacallous]

In 2020, Nazia was working at a data entry office in Hyderabad, but dreamed of being a beautician. Then, on YouTube, she saw a video about Urban Company, a platform similar to the US site TaskRabbit, which promises to connect workers—plumbers, electricians, painters, beauticians, and others—with clients who need their services. Workers who join the platform as beauticians often pay upward of $500 to register and receive a salon equipment kit. For Nazia, it felt like an investment worth taking.

When it launched in 2014, Urban Company was revolutionary for India’s disjointed home services market, providing customers with vetted and trained workers through an easy-to-use interface. Nazia was one of tens of thousands of workers who joined the platform, which grew and grew thanks to consecutive rounds of fundraising from investors including Tiger Global and Prosus Ventures, becoming the largest home services provider in India, valued at almost $3 billion. Then it expanded into the United Arab Emirates and Singapore. In 2023, it launched in the US.

For workers it promised an opportunity to work flexibly, and earn well. In 2020, Fair Work, a research group that studies gig work companies, rated the company the best for workers in India, giving it a score of eight out of 10 on parameters that include fair pay and working conditions. (Uber scored one out of 10).

Nazia got stellar ratings and reviews from customers on the platform—so much so that she was invited to pay $300 to upgrade her account to Prime, which gave her access to better-paying jobs.

“Everything was going great,” she says. “With the money I made, I was able to help my family, buy a two-wheeler, and save money for my wedding.”

Urban Company fostered an identity for itself that was different from other gig work platforms, particularly for women. But since the start of the year, things have gone downhill, fast. Thousands of workers have found themselves arbitrarily dumped from the platform for not meeting new targets that they say have been set unattainably high. Nazia is among them. The platform, it seems, is subject to the same cycle of “enshittification” as its peers, sacrificing the incentives it had offered to get workers onto the platform in order to turn a profit—and abandoning its promises of flexibility in the process.

Urban Company declined to comment.

The first sign of trouble at Urban Company started in 2021, as the pandemic hit the home services business. The company slipped in Fairwork’s rankings, scoring five out of 10. Workers twice held protests demanding lower commissions and safer working conditions. After a media storm, Urban Company published a Medium blog introducing a “12 point program” to “improve partner earnings and livelihood”—which included lowering commissions and introducing an SOS helpline for women’s safety. In an attempt to be more transparent, the company started publishing a partner earnings index, but it also filed lawsuits against four protesters for “illegal and unlawful” actions.

But things got really difficult for Urban Company’s workers in 2023. The platform introduced a new rule stipulating that workers had to maintain an acceptance rate of at least 70 percent, a customer rating of at least 4.7 out of 5, and cancel fewer than four jobs per month. Failure meant being blocked from the app. Nazia managed to keep her ratings above 4.8 until May 2023, when they slipped to 4.69. She was temporarily blocked and put into “retraining”—an online video course followed by 10 bookings that she had to take free of charge in an attempt to boost her rating. Unfortunately, for Nazia, her rating did not budge from 4.69. Since then, she’s been out of work.

“It all happened so quickly,” Nazia says. Now she’s stuck with $2,500 in loans.

I spoke to more than a dozen women like Nazia, all of whom asked for anonymity to protect themselves from retribution and say they were blocked by the platform after failing to meet what they believe were unrealistic expectations.

In Bengaluru, Shabnam—who used a friend’s credit card to pay the $500 joining fee—found that Urban Company started assigning her jobs farther and farther away from home. With rising costs and high commissions, taking these distant trips was “as good as earning nothing,” she says. She turned down the jobs that weren’t economically viable, and soon her response rate—the number of jobs she accepted—dropped to 20 percent. In June, she was dropped from the platform.

Seema, who had worked for Urban Company for five years, had a miscarriage earlier this year. As she was being rushed to the hospital, she didn’t have time to mark in the Urban Company app that she wasn’t able to work that day. Her acceptance rate of bookings fell to 30 percent. She couldn’t get her rate back up to the mandated 80 percent, and she was permanently suspended from the platform. “I went to the office with the doctor’s prescription and everything. They still did not agree to reinstate my account,” Seema says.

In Hyderabad, Sunanda says her account was deactivated earlier this year after a death in the family meant she had to cancel some jobs. She pleaded with a company representative on its helpline and in person—she even submitted the death certificate, but she’s still blocked. “They said they cannot reinstate my account because my rating is not 4.7 or above. I told them my rating is 4.69 and if they give me a chance I will bring it back up, but they refused,” Sunanda, 42, said. “They have given the customers this one weapon: ratings.”

As well as the stick of targets and quotas, Urban Company also offered a carrot for workers: shares in the business.

In 2022, the company announced its Partner Stock Options Program (PSOP), granting shares worth $18 million over the next five to seven years. The following November, they awarded stocks worth approximately $635,000 to 500 partners. But while the PSOPs seemed to be almost guaranteed for workers, the process of accessing them is heavily gamified.

Pratima, an Urban Company beautician, was very excited at the end of 2022 when she realized she’d made it to the top 10 list of workers in her category in Bengaluru. If she continued to stay in the top 10 until April, she was told she’d be granted the company’s stock options that following November. “They call us partners, but don’t treat us like it,” said Pratima, requesting to be referred to under a pseudonym. “I was hoping that if I get a share in the company, maybe then I will be treated like a partner.”

By February, Pratima had completed more than 200 jobs, and she was still in the top 10. Then, a series of low ratings by disgruntled customers pulled down her overall rating, blocking her temporarily and dropping her off the leaderboard. She kept at it, worked back-to-back jobs, and got herself unblocked and back into the rankings. April came around, and she was in the top 10. But then the company seemed to have extended the contest—the leaderboard has kept on counting, but the workers don’t know what’s going on. “It’s like they are making us run a marathon in the name of shares,” she says.

For women who were sold Urban Company’s promises of flexibility and empowerment, the shock of losing their livelihood or being forced to work longer and longer hours has been exacerbated by a sense of betrayal.

“For women especially, a lot of times they have care responsibilities at home, and so there’s hope to find work that’s flexible, that allows them to pick up their kids from school or take junior to the doctor,” says Alexandrea Ravenelle, an author of two books on gig work and a sociology assistant professor at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. “A lot of these platforms are playing off of that need for flexibility because, for many of the workers who are coming to these platforms, an alternative isn’t a white-collar job in a tech office where they can bring the play pen and set the kid up.”

The mismatch between the promise of these platforms and their reality becomes clear when the businesses move from their early growth phase, in which they are able to burn investors’ cash, to one where they have to start to turn a profit.

When two-sided marketplaces that match workers with clients grow, they try to make things as comfortable as possible for workers to create a deep pool of available services. “The shortcut way to do this is to offer incentives to them—be it sellers, drivers, or other gig workers—showing them that this is a lucrative business,” says Rutvik Doshi, a general partner at VC firm Athera Venture Partners.

Companies spend big on marketing as they try to grow as fast as possible (during the 2021–2022 financial year, Urban Company spent close to $30 million on marketing and clocked a loss of over $60 million), working on the assumption that one day the demand for their services will become organic, the suppliers will start making enough money without incentives, and the platform will be able to raise the commissions it takes off its workers.

But when this doesn’t happen, companies desperately rework their models. When they need to curb spending, or when they struggle to raise new funding, marketing is the first thing they cut. Demand drops, creating an oversupply of workers on the platform. “And the excessive supply on the platforms feels the pinch. That’s the typical cycle with a two-sided marketplace,” Doshi says.

On July 10, Urban Company CEO Abhiraj Bahl released a video to the company’s workers explaining the new strict policies. He said that each year, 45 percent of customers use the platform just once and don’t make a second booking, while 15 to 20 percent of workers leave. “And as a result of all of this, Urban Company is still a loss-making company,” he said in the video, part of which has been viewed by WIRED. “So we are losing customers and we are also losing money.”

He blamed the decline in customers on “poor quality service” and “off-platform jobs”—that is, workers making private arrangements with clients and taking their work off Urban Company, something that’s a serious risk to the company’s model. “It’s kind of an existential question: They need the workers and the customers to stay on their platform in order to remain an intermediary,” says Ambika Tandon, a tech and labor researcher at the Center for Internet and Society think tank.

All of this has led the company to push its workers into a mold that essentially has all the downsides of regular employment but few of the benefits. For workers who joined the platform for its flexibility and autonomy, this reality of platform work becomes difficult to reconcile with.

“Urban Company is trying to imagine an ideal worker for this particular model to be someone who is always available, gives their 100 percent, [doesn’t] cancel at all, has no family responsibilities,” Tandon says. “But a lot of these workers are single parents, who have family responsibility and children to take care of. These are not folks who will fit into this model of having a 80 percent, 90 percent acceptance rate.”

In June, WhatsApp groups used by Urban Company workers were flooded with messages about one of their peers, who had reportedly died by suicide after the company deactivated her account—leaving her with no source of income. Several workers I spoke with said that while the news was shocking, none of them knew the victim. “We were vexed,” Seema from Bengaluru says, “But the problem is that all of us are so isolated from each other. The platform doesn’t have any get-togethers, nothing. We all don’t have any relationships, which is a plus point for Urban Company.”

But, like their peers across the platform economy, Urban Company workers are now getting organized. In June and July, hundreds of Urban Company workers took to the streets in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kolkata. Shabnam was present at one of the protests last month in Bengaluru, demanding that the company reinstate her account. With this, they have joined thousands of Indian gig workers from Uber, Ola, Swiggy, Blinkit and more.

There have been at least half a dozen such protests across different cities in India since the beginning of the year—all of them essentially fighting for the same reasons: better pay and working conditions, a ban on unfair practices, and laws governing gig work that workers can lean on for safety and protection. “It’s not just Urban Company that has been blocking accounts,” said Shaik Salauddin, founder of Telangana Gig and Platform Worker Union. “Ola, Uber, Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon, Flipkart—all aggregator companies are doing this.”

Rikta Krishnaswamy, a coordinator with the All India Gig Workers Union, said that the union has had conversations with the labor departments across different cities, including Delhi and Pune. Another meeting is coming up in Mumbai. “We have raised complaints against these illegal dismissals, and the labor departments in Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram have sent notices to the company for a meeting,” she said. “Let’s see if they actually show up.”

Some of the workers whose accounts were blocked have been able to get it reinstated, provided their rating was not lower than 4.7 and they weren’t blocked for trust and safety issues. But, if the video shared by Bahl is any indication, things are only going to get worse by the end of the year. The company has launched a salon quality improvement program called Project Shakti, under which, by December, the performance metrics are going to get even stricter for beauticians: an acceptance rate greater than 80 percent, no more than three monthly cancellations, and “100 percent orders delivered on UC app only.” The rating threshold will continue to be at a minimum of 4.7.

The new policy is being hammered home. Workers whose accounts have been reinstated and those already active on the platform are being called for a meeting to the Urban Company office in small groups of around 10. Some have to watch Bahl’s video. Then they are presented with new terms and conditions to sign, which include consent for them to be permanently blocked from the platform if they miss their targets.

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