Grab Issues Clarification on Alleged Issues Raised About Its Microloans

Grab recognizes the importance of transparency and responsible lending across all its financial services. In light of recent questions regarding our microloan program, we would like to clarify how the product is structured, disclosed, and safeguarded to ensure fairness, clarity, and consumer protection for our driver- and delivery-partners.

Many of our driver and delivery-partners work tirelessly each day to support their families. When unexpected needs arise — such as medical emergencies, vehicle repairs, or school expenses — access to quick and reliable financing can be limited. In the absence of formal options, some may turn to informal lenders with unclear terms and high costs.

To help address this gap, Grab offers microloans designed to provide a safer, regulated, and transparent alternative.

Before any loan is accepted, partners are clearly informed of the total repayment amount, repayment schedule, and all applicable charges. The full repayment amount is disclosed upfront and remains fixed. There are no hidden fees, no compounding charges, and no unexpected costs. This ensures partners can make informed financial decisions with complete clarity.

Importantly, we do not impose late payment penalties. The primary impact of delayed repayment may be on future loan eligibility. We also apply responsible lending guardrails. Loans are extended only to partners who meet defined earnings criteria, and total borrowing is capped as a percentage of historical earnings. Even if a partner has multiple loans, the combined amount cannot exceed this limit. These measures are intentionally designed to promote responsible borrowing and help prevent over-indebtedness.

Repayments are structured as manageable daily deductions aligned with platform earnings, rather than large lump-sum payments. This approach supports predictability and cash-flow alignment. In addition, we provide payment holidays for partners affected by calamities, offering temporary relief during difficult circumstances.

These features were developed in consultation with driver- and delivery-partners to reflect their real financial needs. Our objective is to expand access to short-term financing that is clear, regulated, responsibly designed, compliant with applicable regulatory guidelines, and supported by appropriate safeguards and earnings-based limits.

Because these are short-term microloans with a fixed total repayment amount disclosed upfront, the most meaningful reference for partners is the total peso amount they will repay over the loan term. While annualized rates are commonly used to compare long-term credit products, applying them to short-term loans without context may not accurately reflect the partner experience.

Grab remains committed to supporting the financial well-being of our driver- and delivery-partners while responsibly expanding access to fair and transparent financial services. We welcome continued engagement with regulators and stakeholders to further strengthen consumer protection and transparency in digital lending.