Which banks carry the most weight in the capital
BBVA and Citibanamex have the largest branch networks in the metropolitan area. Banorte and Santander push hard with frequent campaigns, with Banorte particularly strong in the north of the city (Lindavista, Vallejo, GAM) thanks to its IXE legacy. HSBC works well with business profiles and keeps defensive offers for its Premier clients.
When the digital SOFOM makes sense
Kueski, Konfío, Credijusto and DiDi Préstamos don't require a formal payroll receipt. They look at the cash flow through your account instead. For freelancers, tipped workers, couriers, app drivers and small businesses — huge segments of the capital — the SOFOM will approve where the bank won't even open the file. The price you pay is a higher CAT (Costo Anual Total — Mexico's all-in annual cost figure); if you only need the money for six months, the time you save can be worth more than the rate.
If you work for the CDMX or federal government
There are payroll loans with preferential CAT through Banorte, Santander and BBVA, plus the ISSSTE option for those who contribute there. Before you go shopping, ask HR whether your agency already has an active agreement. It usually does, and that knocks 8 to 12 points off the standard CAT.
The amount people actually ask for
Across the applications that come in from postal codes in the Valley of Mexico, the typical request falls between 47,000 and 138,000 pesos at terms of 24 to 48 months. The most common stated purpose isn't a holiday or a home renovation — it's rolling two or three small debts into a single monthly payment.