High LeverageA very high debt-to-equity ratio creates long-term refinancing and interest-rate sensitivity for a consumer lender. Heavy leverage limits strategic flexibility, raises funding costs if market conditions tighten, and magnifies earnings volatility from credit losses or rate moves, constraining durable stability.
Low Net MarginDespite strong operating margins, a low net margin indicates funding costs, provisions, or non-operating charges are eroding ultimate profitability. Structurally this reduces retained earnings accumulation, slows equity rebuild after shocks, and limits capital available for strategic initiatives or buffer against credit cycles.
Thin Equity BaseA low equity ratio signals a thin capital cushion relative to assets, increasing sensitivity to loan impairments and regulatory capital pressure for a lending franchise. Moderate ROE does not fully compensate for the heightened capital risk, making long-term resilience dependent on successful deleveraging or capital raises.