lånedelingen

Lånedelingen, often translated as "loan sharing" or "lending circles," refers to a practice where groups of individuals pool their resources to provide small loans to one another. This model is particularly prevalent in developing countries and among marginalized communities as a way to access capital for small businesses or personal needs when traditional banking services are unavailable or inaccessible.

The core mechanism of lånedelingen involves a group, typically comprising 5 to 20 members, who collectively contribute a small, regular sum of money. This pooled fund is then lent out to one member at a time, usually on a rotating basis. As each member repays their loan, the money is added back to the pool, becoming available for the next member. Interest rates are often minimal or non-existent, and the system relies heavily on social pressure and trust within the group to ensure timely repayments.

Lånedelingen serves multiple purposes. It facilitates access to credit for individuals who lack collateral or credit history, empowering them to invest in income-generating activities. Beyond financial benefits, it fosters a sense of community and mutual support, strengthening social bonds among participants. The shared responsibility and accountability inherent in the model can also encourage financial discipline. While effective in many contexts, challenges can include defaults by individual members, which can impact the entire group's ability to continue lending.