Reasons for taking out loans can vary from person to person based on the loan’s context and purpose. When seeking the ideal bank for your loan, you might have come across options such as Muslim loans or other Islamic finance programs. This may leave you wondering how it differs from conventional loans. Read on to learn more about the differences between obtaining Muslim loans and commercial ones.
Zero Interest Rate
In traditional banking systems, interest is a key element of loans. When you borrow money for personal, business, or other purposes, the bank imposes interest as a fee for lending the money. Pure Islamic banking, on the other hand, adheres to Sharia Law, which strictly forbids riba, or the charging of interest. They use alternative methods to ensure profitability while remaining compliant with Islamic principles. The ban on interest in Islamic finance is based on the belief that loans should be acts of charity meant to assist people facing challenging situations.
Lower Financial Risks
The borrower carries the entire risk burden when dealing with traditional banks. If a borrower defaults on a loan, such as a mortgage, the property enters foreclosure, leaving the borrower to face all related losses and consequences. Islamic banking differentiates itself from conventional banking by adhering to principles of equity, fairness, and ethical conduct, emphasizing risk-sharing over risk transfer. Rather than charging interest, Islamic banks engage in profit and loss sharing arrangements, where both the bank and the borrower share in the financial results, whether they are gains or losses.
No Compounded Fees
Conventional financing often compounds late payment fees, meaning the fee can accumulate interest over time, increasing the borrower’s debt. This can create a cycle of rising costs for those who miss payments. Islamic finance, however, handles late payments differently, as Islamic financiers do not compound late payment fees. They impose a fixed fee to cover the administrative costs associated with the delay. This fee is not intended to generate profit but to maintain fairness and prevent excessive penalties for borrowers, in line with Shariah's ethical principles.
Limited Industries
Islamic banks avoid financing industries deemed harmful or unethical according to Islamic principles, such as alcohol, tobacco, and gambling. Supporting these sectors would contradict the ethical values of Islamic finance. Its principles further prohibit certain financial transactions that are considered exploitative or speculative. In contrast, traditional commercial banks operate under different guidelines and usually do not restrict the types of industries they can finance, focusing instead on financial returns and risk management.
If you are looking for a reputable institution that offers Muslim loans, you can count on us at Devon Bank. Our Islamic financing strictly follows Shariah principles, significantly influencing how our agents manage your banking transactions. Rest assured that our licensed and skilled agents strive to provide an unparalleled loan experience and meet all your banking needs with personalized service. Contact us today, and our Islamic loan specialists will be more than happy to answer your queries.