Introduction

As traditional banks continue to retreat from many forms of lending, Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs) have become increasingly central to the evolution of the private credit market. At Kingsbury & Partners, we focus on this segment because it combines the characteristics professional investors value most: yield, security, and liquidity — all underpinned by real, income-generating assets.

What Are NBFIs?

Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs) are regulated financial entities that perform many of the same core lending functions as banks — without taking deposits. They lend to consumers, SMEs, and corporates; they purchase non-performing loans (NPLs); they finance assets like vehicles, equipment or invoices. But unlike banks, NBFIs are not encumbered by the same regulatory capital requirements, giving them flexibility and agility to operate in underserved segments of the economy.

They are typically more specialised, technology-driven, and focused on a narrow niche — whether that’s subprime auto loans, student loan refinancing, merchant cash advances, or bridging finance. This operational focus, combined with lean cost structures and data-led underwriting, allows NBFIs to originate loans with attractive yields and measurable risk.

Why NBFIs Matter More Today

Regulatory changes and market forces are reshaping the global credit landscape. Under Basel III and upcoming Basel IV regulations, banks are required to hold more capital against lending, particularly for higher-risk assets. This is leading to:

  • A decline in small business and consumer lending by banks
  • A growing credit gap in underserved sectors
  • Increased demand for alternative finance

According to the OECD, NBFIs now account for over 50% of all credit growth globally outside of traditional banks (OECD, 2023).

In a high-rate, low-liquidity environment, NBFIs are well-positioned to step in — and private credit investors are taking note.

Why NBFIs Are a Natural Fit for Private Credit

At Kingsbury & Partners, we specialise in short-duration, asset-backed private credit. NBFIs align with this model because they offer:

  • Immediate cash flow from underlying loan portfolios
  • Secured lending backed by receivables or real-world assets
  • Transparent structures with clear terms, covenants, and exits
  • Macro-resilience as they often gain market share during downturns

Unlike many growth-stage businesses, NBFIs can achieve positive cash flow from day one. This makes them highly investable from a credit perspective, especially when underwriting discipline is strong.

How This Benefits Professional Investors

Investors increasingly seek predictable, income-generating assets with downside protection. Our focus on NBFIs delivers:

  • Contractual returns via secured lending structures
  • Capital preservation through over-collateralisation and active monitoring
  • Access to private credit in an asset class that remains under-allocated in many portfolios
  • Uncorrelated yield away from traditional public markets

As more investors diversify into private credit, NBFIs represent one of the most reliable and scalable segments.

How We Support NBFIs

We don’t just invest in NBFIs — we structure and scale their access to capital through Credit Linked Notes (CLNs).

Our CLN structures give professional investors access to secured, income-producing credit lines to NBFIs with:

  • Clear security over loan books
  • Contracted interest and repayment terms
  • Active monitoring of collateral, performance, and covenant compliance

This approach ensures transparency, alignment, and discipline throughout the investment lifecycle.

In Summary

NBFIs are no longer a niche. They are a critical force in the reshaping of global credit markets. For investors seeking predictable returns, capital protection, and short-duration exposure, lending to NBFIs through well-structured private credit vehicles is a powerful and scalable solution.

At Kingsbury & Partners, we back real businesses doing real lending. And we structure deals that work — for both borrowers and investors.