We use unique and proprietary data from a large Fintech lender to analyze whether alternative data captured from an individual's mobile phone (mobile/social footprint) can substitute for traditional credit bureau scores. Variables that measure a borrowers' digital presence, such as the number...

We examine the Indian bank asset quality review, which doubled the declared loan delinquency rate. Relative economic stability during the exercise and the absence of a capital backstop together make it unique. We find that the expected reduction in information asymmetry does not automatically...