Gruppelån

Gruppelån, also known as group loans or solidarity group lending, is a microfinance methodology where a group of individuals, typically from a low-income community, jointly apply for and guarantee a loan. Instead of individual credit assessments, the group's collective responsibility is the primary basis for loan approval. This system is often employed by microfinance institutions (MFIs) to reach clients who lack traditional collateral or credit history.

The core principle of gruppelån is mutual accountability. Members of the group are jointly liable for the repayment of the loan, meaning if one member defaults, the other members are expected to cover the shortfall. This shared responsibility incentivizes group members to monitor each other's financial behavior and encourage timely repayment. Regular group meetings are a common feature, serving as a platform for loan disbursement, repayment, and discussions about business development or other relevant issues.

Gruppelån is particularly prevalent in developing countries and is often used to support small businesses, agricultural activities, or household needs. The methodology aims to reduce the administrative costs for lenders and overcome information asymmetries that make individual lending to the poor difficult. While it can provide access to much-needed capital and foster social cohesion, potential drawbacks include the risk of social pressure or exclusion if a member is unable to repay, and the possibility of group dynamics negatively impacting loan repayment.