Partial Credit Enhancement (PCE) is designed to strengthen infrastructure bonds by giving issuers a contingent liquidity buffer for servicing the bonds. It acts as a safety valve—accessible only when the bond issuer’s cash flows face temporary mismatches. For infrastructure projects, which often suffer from delayed receivables or uneven revenue during ramp-up, this cushion reduces the probability of default, supports stable credit ratings, and widens access to capital markets. By addressing liquidity risk, PCE allows infrastructure financing to attract a broader investor base at competitive yields.
The RBI’s Non-Fund-Based Credit Facilities Directions, 2025, expand the scope of PCE significantly. It now permits All-India Financial Institutions (AIFIs), scheduled commercial banks, and middle-layer and above NBFCs/HFCs to provide such facilities. Importantly, non-deposit-taking NBFCs/HFCs with assets above ₹1,000 crore are also eligible to avail PCE. The framework removes the earlier 20% sub-limit, enabling a single regulated entity to extend up to 50% PCE support for a bond. Further, REs (regulated entities) must now maintain capital based on the PCE amount and the applicable risk weight for the RE corresponding to the pre-enhanced rating of the bond, rather than the differential method under the old regime.
Together, these reforms build a more competitive and rational ecosystem for credit enhancement—allowing infrastructure SPVs, corporates, municipal corporations, and NBFCs to mobilize long-term capital with calibrated risk-sharing, while ensuring investors gain comfort without excessive reliance on government or full guarantees.
The upcoming webinar will provide a platform for participants to share views, exchange ideas, and discuss how PCE can reshape infrastructure financing in India.
Key Discussion Points
- Impact of enhanced scope with more eligible entities
- Broadening access to insurance/pension money
- Shift in capital treatment to pre-enhanced rating
- Implications of allowing a single RE to provide up to 50% PCE per bond