Commercial loans or business loans are popular methods of accessing credit by business establishments. While the terms are interchangeably used, commercial loans generally have a larger credit size than business loans. The market for commercial loans is bigger than it has ever been. The overall commercial loan had a 93% growth in its portfolio value from FY17 to FY21.
This is due to various causes, including an improving economy, increased employment, and increased demand for small and medium-sized firms. As a result of the increased demand, lenders have expanded their offers and increased the number of financing choices available.
A commercial loan is a short-term loan used to increase a company’s working capital and pay for large expenses and operational costs. It is a type of financing that small businesses employ when they need funds but cannot afford to raise them through the stock and bond markets.
Commercial loans are sanctioned by banks (or a consortium of banks) and other financial organizations based on the debtor’s financials and credit score.
A company may require funds for the following reasons:
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There are numerous types of commercial loans available to companies; some of them:
If a company needs immediate cash to make a payment but does not have the required amount in the bank account, it can opt for a bank overdraft facility. These loans enable firms to withdraw cash over what is available in their current account. The most significant advantages of bank overdrafts are cheaper interest rates and less documentation.
As the name implies, term loans are issued for a set period during which the borrower must return the loan plus interest. Further, it can be divided into secured (with collateral) and unsecured loans. The interest rate offered on secured loans is less than on unsecured loans because of the collateral.
According to terms, it can be categorized into;
A letter of credit is a document issued by a financial organization to the customer’s supplier to guarantee that the customer can make the payment on time for the goods provided. The lender pays the total or remaining sum on the borrower’s behalf if the buyer fails to make the payment.
It is commonly used in import-export transactions.
In an SME collateral-free loan, the lender does not require any personal guarantee or collateral to provide a loan; the loan amount and interest rate are based on the borrower’s profile, including age, income, credit score, etc.
Commercial mortgages, often known as business mortgages, allow business owners to borrow funds to purchase commercial real estate or land for their company. The property itself secures the loan.
Lending institutions give out commercial loans to help businesses fulfill short-term capital needs, such as working capital needs, operations costs and equipment purchases.
Commercial financing functions similarly to typical business loans in the majority of cases. It indicates that the borrower must pay back the loan amount plus interest within a set period. Lenders usually have a set of criteria and terms and conditions in place for these types of loans.
A few features of commercial loans are:
For issuing commercial loans, various commercial lending organizations have varying standards. Some of the most basic parameters are as follows:
When applying for a commercial loan, a company must provide specific documentation to the lender. Depending on the lender, the documentation may vary.
However, the basic documents required are
Obtaining a loan has been quite simple and quick in recent years. The money will be credited to your account within a few days if you submit the paperwork and meet the eligibility requirements.
For the loan, both online and offline applications are acceptable.
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A firm or a self-employed individual must pay specific fees and levies when seeking a commercial loan. A borrower may be required to pay pre-payment charges, loan processing fees, stamp duty, late payment charges, etc.
Before applying for a commercial loan, check the lender’s requirements and fees and make an informed decision.
Bank | Interest Rate | Loan Processing Charges |
HDFC Bank | Min 11.90% & Max 21.35% | Up to 2.50% of the loan amount subject to a minimum of Rs.1000/- |
Axis Bank | Ranging from 9.40% – 18.50% | Up to 2.00% + Applicable taxes |
Tata Capital | Starting at 19% p.a. | Up to 2.50% of the loan amount + GST |
ICICI Bank | Up to 17% p.a. | Up to 2% of the loan amount plus GST |
Before opting for commercial loans, you must consider elements such as interest rate, credit score, and other fees. By examining these criteria, one can determine whatever works for them. It also prevents consumers from making poor judgments, such as selecting an unsuitable lender, selecting an inconvenient term, or borrowing more than they require. Further, when they miss a payment, their credit rating suffers.
Ans: Some lenders allow part payment, but there could be restrictions on how many times you can part pay and the maximum amount you can repay. Further, there could be some fees as well. Thus, you need to examine this with the lender.
Ans: Usually, banks may refuse to lend to business owners with poor credit; however, some banks might offer loans at a significantly higher interest rate.
Ans: In India, single proprietors, self-employed professionals, partnership firms, private limited corporations, and public limited companies can apply for commercial loans. Further, borrowers must be Indian citizens who are between 21 and 65.
Ans: Yes, commercial loans can be categorized into secured and unsecured loans. The interest rate offered on secured loans is less than on unsecured loans because of the collateral.
Ans: In recent years, getting a loan has been much easier and faster. If you submit the documentation and match the qualifying requirements, the money will be credited to your account within a few days. The loan accepts both online and offline applications.
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This article has been prepared on the basis of internal data, publicly available information and other sources believed to be reliable. The information contained in this article is for general purposes only and not a complete disclosure of every material fact. It should not be construed as investment advice to any party. The article does not warrant the completeness or accuracy of the information, and disclaims all liabilities, losses and damages arising out of the use of this information. Readers shall be fully liable/responsible for any decision taken on the basis of this article.