Why do lenders ask for collateral while lending?

Lenders ask for collateral to mitigate their risk in case the borrower defaults on the loan. Collateral provides a form of security, allowing the lender to recover some or all of their losses by repossessing the asset if necessary. This practice not only protects the lender’s investment but also often enables borrowers to secure loans at more favorable terms, as having collateral reduces the overall risk associated with the loan.