Loan Risk Basics in Bangladesh: Types, Examples & How Banks Evaluate Risk (2026)

By Abdul Latif · Educational content · Updated 2026

Whenever a bank gives a loan, it takes a risk — the risk that the borrower may not repay on time or at all. Understanding loan risk helps both banks and borrowers make better financial decisions.

Simple definition: Loan risk is the possibility that a borrower fails to repay the loan as agreed.

Why Loan Risk Matters in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, banks operate under strict credit rules due to past loan defaults and economic uncertainty. Because of this, banks carefully analyze loan risk before approving any loan.

Main Types of Loan Risk

1) Credit Risk

Credit risk is the risk that the borrower will fail to repay loan installments. This is the most important risk banks evaluate.

2) Income Risk

Income risk refers to uncertainty about the borrower’s future income. Job instability, seasonal income, or declining business revenue increase this risk.

3) Cash Flow Risk

Even profitable businesses can face cash flow problems. If cash inflow timing does not match EMI schedules, repayment risk increases.

4) Collateral Risk

For secured loans, banks assess whether collateral value is sufficient and easy to recover. Weak or illiquid collateral increases risk.

5) Behavioral Risk

Past repayment behavior, discipline, and financial habits matter. Frequent delays or irregular payments signal higher risk.

How Banks Evaluate Loan Risk (Simplified)

Risk Factor What Banks Check
Income Stability, source, and sustainability
CIB report Past loan and credit card repayment behavior
Liabilities Existing loans, EMIs, guarantees
DSCR / affordability Ability to repay comfortably
Collateral Value, ownership, and liquidity

Examples of High Loan Risk Situations

How Borrowers Can Reduce Loan Risk

  1. Maintain timely repayments on all loans and cards
  2. Reduce existing liabilities before applying
  3. Keep EMI within safe income limits
  4. Build emergency savings to handle income shocks
  5. Avoid unnecessary guarantees
  6. Maintain clear and accurate documentation
Lower loan risk does not guarantee approval, but it significantly improves chances.

Loan Risk vs Loan Eligibility

Loan eligibility determines whether you qualify on paper. Loan risk determines whether the bank feels safe lending to you. Both must be acceptable for approval.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is loan risk only about income?

No. Banks evaluate income, behavior, credit history, liabilities, and collateral together.

Can low loan risk get me lower interest?

Sometimes. Lower-risk borrowers may receive better terms, depending on bank policy.

Does guarantor status increase loan risk?

Yes. Acting as guarantor exposes you to repayment risk if the main borrower fails.

Can loan risk improve over time?

Yes. Consistent good financial behavior gradually reduces perceived risk.

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