Even as global markets go shaky and experience volatility making many sweat; it is the Online Direct Lending zone of peer-to-peer finance that not only remains unfazed, but seems all set to offer some dramatically interesting, money-making opportunities even for those who do not have knowledge of the stock market.

The concept of peer-to-peer lending is largely internet-based. Offering relatively lower borrowing rates and higher lending returns; this financing option is slowly mitigating the need for banks acting as middlemen between the borrowers and lenders. India too is not untouched by this wave as Faircent.com pioneers in P2P lending in India are introducing the country to a radically new investment option which is easy to relate with, and connect to.

Contrary to the scenario 18 months back when the first ever levered fund that invested in consumer P2P loans was launched; there is a notable global shift in the number of those interested in borrowing and lending. Leading lending platforms including Faircent.com now find the balance tilting towards an increase in lenders.

While this is a positive sign, there is the issue of deploying all the readily available, surplus investment capital. Also the task does not get easier with (a) institutional investors adding to the competition and (b) the pressing need for portfolio diversification to ensure investment in an array of verticals for best returns. All these issues together have resulted in lending platforms to strictly restrict access at the lenders end and look for borrowers who are relatively more creditworthy.

However, despite the many challenges monthly loan volumes are experiencing an upswing. According to the editing desk at Equities.com - Prosper and Lending Club both, have seen an increase in loan volumes from $12M and $88M respectively, in November 12, to $77M and $272M respectively, in March14.

The present scenario demands developing new opportunities, models and platforms in peer-to-peer finance and online lending. Some avenues to be explored include - student loan financing, real estate lending, and also financing and lending for Energy Reduction Assets’ development.

With immense potential and growing investment opportunities, the peer-to-peer lending and finance space is a must-watch right now, especially for those looking for passive means to multiply their earnings.