Financial Exclusion: Lack of Access to Loans and Credit

In Peru’s financial landscape, millions of citizens face systemic exclusion from formal credit systems due to negative records in Infocorp, the country’s primary credit bureau. For individuals listed in Infocorp’s database—often due to past defaults, late payments, or unresolved debts—access to traditional banking products like personal loans or credit cards remains severely restricted. This barrier not only limits financial mobility but also reinforces cycles of economic marginalization, particularly among low- and middle-income populations striving to rebuild creditworthiness.

The challenge is especially acute given Peru’s growing reliance on digital financial services and the increasing cost of living in urban centers like Lima and Arequipa. Without access to formal credit, many turn to informal lenders or high-cost alternatives, which can exacerbate debt burdens. Recognizing this gap, several fintech companies and alternative lenders have begun targeting this underserved segment with specialized loan products designed to assess creditworthiness beyond traditional bureau scores.

One such initiative gaining attention is a lending campaign promoted under the slogan “Confiamos en ti” (We trust in you), which positions itself as a pathway to financial inclusion for those excluded from mainstream banking. While the phrase appears in promotional materials from various Peruvian lenders, it is not tied to a single, centralized program but rather used by multiple financial technology platforms seeking to differentiate their approach to risky or thin-file borrowers.

These alternative lending models typically rely on alternative data points—such as utility payment history, mobile phone usage, or cash flow patterns—to evaluate risk. Some platforms partner with banks or non-bank financial institutions to originate loans, while others operate under lending licenses issued by Peru’s Superintendencia de Banca, Seguros y AFP (SBS). Interest rates on such loans tend to be higher than those offered to prime borrowers, reflecting the elevated risk profile, though regulators have emphasized the require for transparency and consumer protection in this growing sector.

According to SBS data from 2023, approximately 40% of Peru’s economically active population either lacks a credit history or has a negative record in Infocorp, representing a significant portion of the adult population unable to access conventional credit. This statistic underscores the scale of the challenge and helps explain why alternative lending channels have expanded rapidly in recent years.

Fintech lenders operating in this space often highlight faster approval times, fully digital applications, and flexible repayment terms as key advantages. Some advertise loan amounts ranging from S/500 to S/20,000 (approximately $130 to $5,300 USD), with repayment periods extending from 3 to 36 months. Yet, exact terms vary widely between providers, and borrowers are advised to carefully review interest rates, fees, and total cost of credit before accepting any offer.

Consumer advocacy groups in Peru, such as Asociación de Consumidores y Usuarios (ASEPEC), have urged caution, noting that while expanded access to credit can be beneficial, it must be accompanied by strong regulatory oversight to prevent predatory lending practices. The SBS has issued guidelines requiring lenders to disclose the effective annual cost rate (TCEA) clearly in all loan offers and to assess borrowers’ repayment capacity before approval.

For individuals seeking to improve their standing in Infocorp, financial experts recommend verifying the accuracy of their credit report, disputing any errors, and settling outstanding debts where possible. Once negative records are resolved or aged off (typically after five years for most delinquencies), borrowers may regain eligibility for traditional banking products. In the meantime, responsibly managed alternative loans can serve as a stepping stone toward reestablishing credit history.

As Peru continues to innovate in financial inclusion, the tension between expanding access and ensuring consumer safety remains central to policy discussions. Initiatives like those promoted under banners such as “Confiamos en ti” reflect a broader effort to serve the underserved—but their long-term impact will depend on responsible lending, clear terms, and ongoing regulatory vigilance.

For the most current information on credit reporting, lending regulations, or consumer rights in Peru, individuals are encouraged to consult the official website of the Superintendencia de Banca, Seguros y AFP (SBS) Superintendencia de Banca, Seguros y AFP or visit the Indecopi portal for consumer protection guidance Instituto Nacional de Defensa de la Competencia y de la Protección de la Propiedad Intelectual.

The next scheduled update on credit market statistics from the SBS is expected in the second quarter of 2026, which will provide further insight into trends in formal and informal lending across the country.

If you’ve navigated the challenges of accessing credit with an Infocorp record, we invite you to share your experience in the comments below. Your story could facilitate others facing similar situations. Feel free to share this article with anyone who might benefit from understanding their options in Peru’s evolving financial landscape.

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