Which of the following best describes "loan underwriting"?

Loan underwriting is fundamentally concerned with assessing the borrower's ability to repay a loan, which is captured in the correct answer choice. This process involves a thorough evaluation of various financial aspects, such as credit history, income, employment status, existing debts, and overall financial stability. By analyzing these factors, underwriters determine the risk of lending to a particular borrower and whether to approve their loan application.

Effective loan underwriting is crucial for financial institutions as it helps them mitigate the risks associated with lending. By ensuring borrowers meet certain credit standards, lenders can reduce the likelihood of defaults, ultimately supporting the overall health of their loan portfolio. This evaluation is core to making informed decisions on lending and establishing terms that align with the borrower's risk profile.

The rationale behind this process is to ensure that the loan will be repaid under the agreed terms, thereby protecting the lender's financial interests while also considering the borrower's capacity to manage and repay the loan responsibly.