Grab has introduced a new cash loan service for its consumers, which is already available in the Philippines before an anticipated expansion to Thailand and Malaysia by mid-2026.

The initiative targets the substantial population of underbanked individuals across Southeast Asia who lack credit cards or documented credit histories.

While Grab previously offered financial solutions to its merchants and drivers using their platform earnings data, everyday users were excluded from these services.

The new consumer loan aims to bridge this gap. Because traditional credit metrics are unavailable for many informal sector workers, Grab has developed an alternative system to assess eligibility.

Instead of relying on conventional banking histories, Grab’s decision-making engine generates a “holistic combined score” based on user data.

This includes metrics such as a consumer’s ride frequency, their average GrabFood order value, and their overall tenure on the app.

However, only preapproved users have access to the loan application process. Eligible individuals verify their identity and link a repayment method, such as an e-wallet or bank account, directly within the application.

Interest rates start at 2.99% per month, depending on an individual’s eligibility, alongside a one-time processing fee of up to 2%. Users can check their specific loan offer in the app to view their exact rates.

The system facilitates automatic deductions, which the company states helps maintain low operational costs and loan affordability.

Users who might otherwise rely on unlicensed lenders during emergencies can now build a formal credit history and achieve better financial flexibility, as Grab utilises alternative digital behaviour to offer this new service.

Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Philippines based on an image by rawpixel.com via Freepik.