Strategies for Businesses That Want to Mitigate Credit Risk

11:08 10 August in Blog

Although the economy is recovering, many companies are suffering additional losses which have further weakened their financial position.  Losses derived from insufficient credit risk management policies and practices have many businesses without sufficient working capital to meet their daily cash flow needs. Payments for open invoices are being “stretched” out longer and businesses are experiencing increased late payments and write-offs.

You can mitigate your credit risk and protect your financial condition by reviewing your credit policies, procedures, and processes to be sure they make sense for an economy in transition, and consider implementing the following strategies:

Credit Criteria

In a growing, stable economy companies tend to accept lower credit quality on the assumption that a rising economy will mitigate the risk.  The economy is recovering but shortages, price inflation, and the COVID-19 Delta variant have created significant challenges for many businesses.

Tightening credit criteria to include the following can mitigate credit risk:

  • Years in business
  • High trade credit amount
  • Credit rating score
  • Litigation, lien, and bankruptcy history
  • Key financial indicators such as current ratio and acid test ratio

Generally, this information will be available in a business credit report.  Reports can be ordered from credit bureaus such as Dun & Bradstreet, Experian, Ansonia, etc.   Try to find the right balance that will mitigate credit risk, but not weaken competitiveness.  Further credit information can be obtained by requesting trade references, bank references, and financial statements from customers, or even by internet searches.  Information for companies that are public may be more accessible on the internet by using YAHOO Finance or EDGAR on the SEC.gov website as these businesses are required to regularly submit public filings and financials.

Credit Limits

How much can your company afford to lose to bad debts? Analyze credit loss exposure to your top customers under varying scenarios. If the potential exposure is too great, carefully adjust credit limits to avoid jeopardizing customer relationships.

Payment Terms

Payment terms are often dictated by competition and industry practices. However, overly generous payment terms increase credit exposure, and your company may not be able to finance the level of accounts receivable.

Credit risk can be mitigated by reducing payment terms to accounts with higher credit risk, e.g. changing from Net 30 to Net 15. Reducing excessive payment terms for other accounts will further mitigate risk and reduce investment in accounts receivable.

Discounts for Early Payment

Offering a discount for early payment, e.g. 2% 10 Net 30 can be an effective way to mitigate credit risk. In a low-interest-rate environment, cash discounts can be a powerful incentive to pay early. The cost of offering a cash discount can be high. Make sure you have the profit margin to absorb the cost. 

Deposits

Requiring a deposit with an order helps to mitigate credit risk. Deposits are not unusual for special orders, large orders, higher credit risk, and orders with long lead times.

Letters of Credit

Letters of credit to guarantee orders are a common way to mitigate credit risk in international trade and on special and large orders. Letters of credit can be expensive for a customer, and the amount of the credit is counted against the availability of borrowing facilities the customer may have at the issuing bank.

Collection Procedures

Increased customer contact reduces late payments and mitigates credit risk. On large orders contact customers shortly after the invoice has been issued to make sure it has been received, and there are no problems that will delay payment. Add a payment reminder just before the due date, and shorten the time between past-due payment reminders. In collections, the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

Automation 

Automation of credit and collections processes can reduce DSO up to 10 days. Lower DSO increases cash flow and reduces credit risk. Automated credit scoring and monitoring, electronic invoicing, email automation, and online customer portals reduce late payments and mitigate credit risk.

Third-party options to mitigate credit risk should also be considered. Even companies with the best credit policies, procedures, and processes can benefit from the additional risk mitigation available from commercial finance companies.

Credit Insurance

Insuring against credit losses is a common method used to mitigate credit risk. While credit insurance may be helpful in certain circumstances, there are a number of drawbacks that need to be considered, including:

  • Cost: There may be a minimum premium and the cost may be high for low volumes.
  • Deductible: You may have to incur credit losses up to a deductible amount before the policy pays.
  • Coverage: The policy may exclude disputed amounts and high-risk accounts, or limit coverage for an account.

Credit insurance is generally best suited for companies with a small number of large accounts.

Invoice Factoring

Invoice factoring is a widely used form of financing which can mitigate credit risk and provide immediate funding. Factoring can be provided for a single invoice, or as a program for all of your accounts receivable.

With a non-recourse factoring structure, the factoring company willingly assumes the risk of credit default once the invoice is purchased, mitigating your credit exposure.  Invoice factoring credit approval is based on your customer’s financial strength, not the creditworthiness of your business. Credit analysis and collections services for factoring with recourse (the most common form of invoice factoring), can be provided to clients that need help managing their credit risk.

Invoice factoring is an excellent solution for companies that need to mitigate their credit risk and receive immediate funding for their accounts receivable.

How Capstone Can Help

Capstone Capital Group, LLC is a leading commercial finance company that is focused on providing capital to growing companies. Capstone can tailor a program using existing accounts receivable to generate working capital and provide credit risk mitigation services that fit your business needs.

If you would like to discuss invoice factoring and credit mitigation with a Capstone representative, please call (212) 755-3636.

Green Energy Initiatives Are On the Rise and So Is the Demand for Funding

11:55 02 August in Blog

Growing concerns over the potential negative impacts caused by fossil fuels on the environment, health, weather, and the economy have increased the consensus among stakeholders – consumers, business, and government – that action needs to be taken to reduce the use of fossil fuels in transportation, industry, construction, agriculture, and other sectors.

Environmentally sustainable growth fueled by renewable energy from naturally occurring resources, including sunlight, wind, geothermal heat, tides, as well as other sources, and increased energy efficiency can help accomplish this goal.  Environmentally sustainable growth has the ability to foster economic growth and development while ensuring that nature continues to provide the resources and environmental services our society requires.

The green energy initiatives needed to attain environmentally sustainable growth will require huge investments and the demand for funding is increasing rapidly. The issuance of green bonds increased from $18 billion to $120 billion from 2015-2019, with the U.S. representing approximately 15% of the total. Due to the scope and nature of the investments that will be required, funding from private and public sources will be necessary.

Macro Forces Driving Green Energy Initiatives

More money is flowing into green energy projects than ever before and is rapidly increasing due to the falling costs (and increased efficiency) of green energy, the COVID-19 pandemic, federal tax credits, and an unprecedented political movement to decrease carbon emissions. The proposed 2022 U.S. Federal budget alone includes $36 billion earmarked for green initiatives.

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift of investment away from fossil fuels with investors flocking to environmentally sustainable growth projects as the must-have investments of the future.  At the onset of pandemic lockdowns in early 2020, demand for oil and gas fell sharply as air travel plummeted and people stopped driving.  Crude oil prices traded below $0 while the value of the oil and gas industry saw major declines worldwide.   Stakeholders are now seeing green energy sources as more resilient to these types of disasters as impacts of the pandemic were not as profound on that sector.

Additionally, major companies such as Microsoft, McDonald’s, Wal-Mart, Apple, and HP are pledging to reduce or eliminate their carbon footprint all the while consumers are exhibiting a growing preference for sustainable products and services with more people willing to pay a premium for them.

Green Energy Initiatives

Green energy initiatives are being undertaken by the private and public sectors, and through the collaboration of both sectors.  Some of the notable initiatives in the U.S. include:

  • The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) is working to support energy efficiency and renewable energy research in collaboration with private organizations, researchers, and other nations, on projects including Grid Modernization Initiative, EERE Small Business Innovation Research, and Better Buildings Initiative.
  • The Department of Energy (DOE) announced over $65 million in public and private funding to commercialize promising energy technologies.  The DOE also unveiled two funding opportunities totaling over $162 million to improve efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in cars, trucks, and off-road vehicles.
  • The maritime industry is exploring the use of alternative fuels to power cargo vessels.
  • United Airlines, Boeing, Honeywell, and the Clean Energy Trust announced an initiative to advance aviation biofuel development.
  • Unilever unveiled a new sustainability initiative dubbed the Regenerative Agriculture Principles, promoting the use of renewable sources and other initiatives in agriculture.
  • NES Fircroft, an engineering staffing provider, listed 10 major renewable energy projects to watch in 2021. The projects including hydroelectric, solar and wind have an estimated cost of approximately $80 billion.
  • The proposed $50 billion U.S. Federal Small Business Green Recovery Fund is promoting green innovations and investments among small businesses that advance climate change mitigation, adaption, and other sustainability solutions. The fund will offer small businesses financial support in the form of green grants, green loans, and green bonds. Green loans and green bonds will be channeled on a commercial basis through intermediary financial institutions by building on the experiences of the Paycheck Protection and Main Street Lending Programs.

Need for Green Energy Funding

The cost to convert the entire U.S. power grid to 100% renewable energy has been estimated at $4.5 trillion.  This enormous investment means funding for green initiatives will need to come from both private third-party sources and public sources.  Private third-party sources will include commercial finance intermediaries, joint ventures of public and private companies, and equity investment funds.

Businesses that need funding for green energy initiatives are also able to apply for grants from a number of publicly funded sources however most times that may not be enough on its own.  In fact, most green energy initiatives would never be possible without the involvement of private third-party funding sources.

How Capstone Can Help

Green energy initiatives demand time, money, and a certain level of risk tolerance.  Capstone understands the financial components along with the risks associated with project financing and is focused on providing capital to support our clients’ green energy goals.  Invoice factoring can be a more convenient alternative to other types of third-party funding sources that typically structure green energy project finance through debt financing or by raising equity.  Capstone has provided its clients, from many diverse industries, with funding for green energy initiatives and can tailor a program for your sustainability project.If you would like to discuss your green energy project with a Capstone representative, please email us at [email protected] or call (212) 755-3636.

Pandemic Recovery Impacts on Business Growth

14:19 06 July in Blog

Starting off with positive news, the U.S. economy shows strong signs of recovery as the pandemic abates and confidence in the vaccines grows. On the downside, expect many parts of the economy to experience some growing pains.

For example, businesses still struggle with supply-side and labor issues. Businesses and individuals will have to choose between spending more and buying less.

Find out how these pandemic-related issues will impact businesses and the companies that fund their growth.

Potential Inflation Risks

Several pandemic-related forces may combine to drive increased inflation. For instance:

  • Supply and labor problems: Some industries still struggle with supply-side issues, such as the rising cost of key inputs like lumber and semiconductors, as well as overseas shipping delays. Other companies have had a hard time attracting new workers to meet demand. Employers need to compete with government unemployment stipends and employees who have employed their time off to seek better opportunities.  A tight labor market combined with higher minimum wages are also contributing factors.
  • Pent-up demand for products and services: Pent-up demand for various products and services can boost revenues but also aggravate supply and labor problems in struggling markets. Until suppliers expand production and distribution, prices for scarce human and material resources will rise.
  • Government stimulus programs for individuals and businesses: The government also offered multiple stimulus programs to both businesses and consumers. People with extra cash to spend generate more revenue for businesses, but the extra customers may burden unprepared businesses and even entire industries as they struggle to scale.  Given so much cash (government stimulus) being pumped into the economy, consumers now have $2.1 trillion in disposable personal income (savings).  This disposable income, if deployed by consumers in pre-pandemic activities, should result in increased consumer spending, as estimated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis
  • End of deflation from China:  With China being the hub of the world’s manufacturing for the past 30 years, China was contributing -1% to global inflation as estimated by the Fed.  More recently, China’s economy has caught up to the rest of the world and is not exporting deflation like it once did.

 

Comparison of the Pandemic Recovery to Historical Periods

The Inflation of the 1960s

According to speculation by economists involved in the business financing industry, ongoing government stimulus may keep contributing to higher inflation rates over the next few years. As an analogy, consider the “guns and butter” period of the 1960s when social spending heavily competed with defense spending for a share of the government’s budget.

During that time in history, modest inflation of one to two percent ballooned into five or six percent within only a couple of years. Some economists suggest that the pandemic recovery period of the 2020s could mirror that time because of increased government stimulus spending.

The Roaring Stock Market of the 1920s

A contrast of the potential of the 2020s to the growth period of the 1920s, exactly a century ago, might even appear more striking. Like today, the country had emerged from a pandemic. Similar to today’s digital revolution, innovations like electricity, refrigeration, radio and even indoor plumbing accelerated growth and productivity.  Both periods created permanent changes to the country’s population and economy resulting in an unparalleled movement of people and significant social disruption. 

Also, like the 2020s, in the 1920s, economic growth fueled a soaring stock market mostly benefiting the wealthiest people, and some financial analysts expressed concerns about it being overvalued. Sadly, the 1920s ended in the Great Depression. Besides concerns about the economy, political divisions loomed over this generally prosperous time. Again, the economy’s definitely demonstrating signs of a strong economy. On the other hand, all stakeholders in that economy have an opportunity to study history in order to avoid repeating it.

What are Some Sectors to Watch?

Some sectors of the economy will take longer to recover. In fact, some may never experience the kind of growth they did prior to the disruption caused by the pandemic. For instance:

  • Hotels: Compared to three percent before the pandemic, over 15 percent of hotel loans are delinquent now. People have slowly begun to resume traveling. Many businesses relied on video conferences to avoid in-person meetings during the pandemic, and they may continue to rely upon technology because of cost savings and convenience.
  • Retail store space: Even before the pandemic, e-commerce started to take an increasingly large share of retail revenues. Once people grow accustomed to shopping online, many said they plan to continue to rely on their favorite digital outlines for convenience and the ease of comparing prices. Thus, many brick-and-mortar stores have closed. Over 10 percent of retail loans were delinquent, and some experts predict that up to half of the large anchor stores in malls will close by the end of 2021. Note that while demand for physical stores declined, overall retail sales have trended up.
  • Office space: The pandemic drove many employees from their business offices to their home offices. As employees and businesses have adapted to this change, many companies have turned remote work into the new normal in many industries. While the share of long-term leases as a percentage of all leases dropped, the average length of leases has declined by 15 percent.

The Good News for Secured Lenders During the Recovery

While many end-use sectors for secured lending are in recovery mode, plenty of sectors, such as manufacturing are struggling right now to keep pace with demand. The chart for the ISM manufacturing index spiked and so have both wholesale and retail sales. Accordingly, commodity prices have rapidly increased, notably for lumber, semiconductor, base metals used in manufacturing, and other products.

As cash flows recover, current demand growth for both secured and traditional funding remains somewhat flat. However, full recovery is within reach and should pick up soon as manufacturers take advantage of financing to expand production and inventories.  The saying goes ‘All change is preceded by crisis’ and today there is a huge push for lenders to adapt to innovation and technology like never before.  Capstone is ready with a fresh website redesign, enhancements to informational content, a quick and convenient funding app, as well as integration of new software and social technologies.  These updates will improve functionality and usability for current clients and make it easier than ever to help all business owners access the capital they need throughout their recovery.

Payment Terms Trending Longer Post Pandemic – Tips to Manage Cash Flow Woes

15:27 28 June in Blog

Scoring a new contract or purchase order from a reliable customer can provide any contractor or supplier with a windfall growth opportunity. Still, the nature of the opportunity can also present many growing businesses with a dilemma.

Credit-worthy companies know that plenty of suppliers and other contract firms covet doing business with them.  Accordingly, they possess enough leverage to require generous payment terms that may leave their partners waiting for 60 to 90 days, or even longer, for payment.

Without an immediate payment, small businesses may lack the cash flow they need to pay vendors and employees to deliver on the contract.  In today’s world, where there are very few customers, and everything is consolidated, businesses do not have the luxury of turning a customer down.  If a company is not properly managing its cash flow, it might have to pass on the opportunity and risk never being offered it again. 

Learn more about current payment term trends and some tips to help manage cash flow in this environment.

Payment Terms Are Trending Longer

More businesses have turned to longer payment terms as a way to manage their own cash flow. As one example, The Star Tribune reported that 3M notified some suppliers that they needed to extend their payment terms from net 60 to net 90 to help manage their working capital.

Supply-chain professionals and economists have observed that 3M provides just one example of a growing trend towards extending contract payment schedules. For other examples, Best Buy and Honeywell also asked suppliers to extend payment terms within the last year.

Besides longer payment times, other causes have contributed to later payments. As an example, pandemic-related manufacturing slowdowns and supply issues have also generated long lead times. In turn, longer turnaround times will mean waiting even longer for payments.

Tips to Manage Cash Flow Challenges

Waiting months for payment poses a challenge for many businesses, including manufacturers, suppliers, staffing companies, transportation businesses, construction trades, and even professional service firms. While changing terms might help some businesses manage their own working capital better, it obviously hampers their partner company’s ability to do the same.

Cash Flow Management Strategies

Dealing with cash flow ensures businesses have the money they need to pay their suppliers and employees. Some important tactics for managing cash flow include:

  • Understanding the impact of payment terms: For various reasons, businesses should understand and accept the consequences of varying payment terms. With other things equal, shorter payment terms offer more value than longer ones because delayed payments might generate more costs in the form of interest, fees, or lost opportunities.
  • Offering incentives for early payers: With the understanding that shorter payment terms hold value, some businesses offer incentives for early or cash payments. Offering a discount or other incentive for early payments may save money in the long run. Adding electronic payment can make paying more convenient and help speed things up.

Invoice Factoring

New, small, or struggling businesses may lack the credit or the time to apply for traditional business loans.  Rather than turn away opportunities for growth because of a simple lack of cash or credit, small businesses should consider alternative funding options that bridge the gap between agreements and payment dates.  As a simple, fast, and reliable alternative, consider the benefits of invoice factoring as a funding solution.  

Unlike most kinds of traditional business financing, invoice factoring does not involve a loan. When an invoice is factored, the business will transfer ownership of their invoices for accepted and completed work in exchange for an agreed-upon advance, as a percentage of the invoice. 

This kind of funding gives companies the cash flow they need to focus on their current operations and relieves concerns over slow-paying customers.

Businesses with these kinds of characteristics may benefit from invoice factoring:

  • Qualified unpaid invoices for completed delivery of goods and services
  • Creditworthy B2B or B2G customers
  • Long delays between completed work and payment; trade cycle 60-150 days or more
  • Losing sales or missing growth opportunities 
  • Immediate growth opportunity with a product, customer, project, or market share

 

Don’t Let Long Payment Terms Derail Business Growth

In the worst cases, extended payment terms can force companies to turn down work. In some cases, demonstrating that cash flow management has caused problems might even damage their business reputations and ability to conduct business in the future. In all cases, it wastes time and money that the company used to generate a sale.

Access to rapid, flexible funding not only helps companies grow but can even help them save money. Many of the business’ own suppliers and vendors will offer discounts for prompt, cash payments that the business owner will be able to take advantage of. Moreover, companies don’t need to have established credit scores or wait for months for approval.

To discuss the best funding solution for your business, contact Capstone at (212) 755-3636 or complete a short, online application.

Capstone Announces Website Upgrades to Improve the Customer Experience – Press Release

13:01 25 June in Blog, Press Release

Capstone, a private finance company with a focus on accelerating its client’s cash flow, recently announced several redesigns to their website that will improve the user experience of clients, referral partners, and other website visitors.

Capstonetrade.com offers funding solutions through factoring, purchase order financing, and both domestic and international trade financing. They focus these financing solutions in an effort to meet the unique needs of service, wholesale, manufacturing, distribution, supply, and construction companies. Capstone works directly with a growing base of clients and with referral partners including brokers, banks, and other financial professionals.

The new website features give clients convenient options to apply for new funding as well as providing industry-specific financial resources. In a continued effort to educate current and prospective customers, Capstone has also enhanced its informational content to include case studies and White Papers on current economic trends that affect business funding. In addition, design updates to service pages improve the user experience, enhance website navigation, and provide all of the information about various funding options in one place. According to Capstone, the website updates will improve functionality and usability for current clients and help all business owners find the best funding options for their needs.

Located in New York City, Capstone’s management has over a century’s worth of combined expertise in business and investments. In particular, Capstone’s management team possesses unique expertise in financial services and construction-related transactions. They specialize in factoring, trade, and purchase order financing. Other Capstone services include funding for music royalties, staffing companies, and a diverse lending program for minority-owned businesses. In addition to funding a broad range of clients in various industries, Capstone takes an innovative approach that serves their client’s diverse and evolving needs under all sorts of economic conditions.

For more information, visit Capstone at https://capstonetrade.com or call (212) 755-3636.

business funding after ppp

MWDBE Funding Options Compared After the PPP Runs Out of Money

13:08 28 May in Blog

Disadvantaged businesses often lack sufficient access to business financing options. Some reasons for this might include a lack of collateral, lower net worth, too little credit and banking history, or other tangible and intangible barriers. To pursue certain opportunities, businesses also often need faster approvals and access to funds than banks and other typical lenders can offer. Because of these obstacles to obtaining traditional loans, disadvantaged business owners may need to consider business financing alternatives, such as invoice factoring.

Over the past several years, Capstone has served as a primary or secondary financing source for a variety of minority, women, and disadvantaged business entities, or in short “MWDBEs.”  We’re experts in making sure that companies can obtain the funding they need to pursue growth opportunities. Business owners can always contact Capstone with questions about business financing.

Has PPP Run Out of Funds to Lend?

Early in May 2021, the SBA announced that it could not accept more PPP loan applications. Out of $800 billion in forgivable loans meant to support small businesses through the pandemic, the fund only had $8 billion left, according to CBS News. Because of rapidly depleted funds and current borrower targeting, most small businesses cannot apply or get approved for PPP loans any longer, though the SBA said it would still process applications that had already been submitted.

The government earmarked the small pool of remaining funds for community banks that mostly serve MWDBEs. Even for disadvantaged businesses, the $8 billion is not expected to last long after considering it only took 13 days to use up the initial $350 billion in funding.

Alternatives to PPP for Small Businesses After PPP Ends

With the chance of obtaining one of these forgivable PPP loans largely gone, small businesses must compare other funding options. To get started, take a brief look at various financing alternatives, including invoice factoring, current SBA programs, bank lines of credit, business credit cards, and merchant cash advances.

Source of Funding Invoice Factoring SBA Loans Bank Lines of Credit Business Credit Cards Merchant Cash Advances
Approval/ Processing Time 2 to 7 business days At least 90 days and up to 6 -12 months 1 to several business days Instant to several business days 2 to several business days
Qualifications Creditworthy customers, quality account receivables Multiple and varies by loan but typically includes collateral, prolonged history of financials, a certain length of time in business, and credit Size of Corporate Balance Sheet, corporate liquidity, and value of personal assets; may require a prior relationship with the bank, above-average personal credit, and a personal guarantee Excellent credit Prior sales history, projected future sales, and a personal guarantee
Fees / Interest In general, range from one to four percent fees for 30 days Modest, interest rates vary by lender Typically 15  percent APR or more Typically, 15 percent APR or more Expect 30 percent APR or more
Maximum Amount No maximum; percentage of invoice or contract $5,000,000 maximum Varies $15,000 – $30,000 maximum Percentage of future revenues

Invoice Factoring

Instead of having to wait 30 to 90 days for customers to pay invoices, qualified businesses can sell all or some portion of their accounts receivable to an invoice factoring company. This makes invoice factoring a great option for companies that are new, have faced some credit challenges, would rather not take on debt, or simply need funding fast.

Factoring fees usually range between one and four percent, making invoice factoring a low-cost alternative when compared to the interest rates on most small business funding options. Generally, a business is able to obtain an advance for their accounts receivable within a day or two once initial underwriting has been completed. 

How to Apply and Qualify for Invoice Factoring

Qualified businesses usually generate invoices for other businesses or government contracts. Since the factoring company will assume responsibility for collecting accounts receivable, they’re mostly concerned about the creditworthiness of their client’s customers and quality of the accounts receivable. Processing time typically ranges from 48 hours to seven business days.

SBA Loans

The SBA has multiple programs, include some for traditionally disadvantaged business owners. Benefits of SBA funding may include competitive rates and flexible terms. Some even come with extra resources, like business mentoring, counseling, and education. Depending on the loan program and qualification, loans can range from as little as $500 to as much as $5 million. Some SBA loans impose restrictions on how the borrower can use the money.

Qualifying and Applying for SBA loans

Qualification depends upon the loan program. SBA might qualify businesses that have been declined by banks and other traditional lenders. Still, businesses typically need to demonstrate their ability to repay, and have a prolonged history of financials, certain length of time in business, and demonstrate that the company engages in sound business practices. Processing times and required documentation varies; however, typically expect to supply plenty of documentation and to wait at least 90 days and even up to 6 – 12 months for a loan decision.

Bank Lines of Credit

A line of credit from a bank can offer businesses a flexible way to draw upon funding when they need it. Lenders will offer each borrower their own maximum credit limit, which generally won’t exceed $250,000. Similar to credit cards, businesses can usually keep drawing on and repaying their balance, so long as they adhere to the terms. Interest rates for business lines of credit can vary wildly, but typically are around 15 percent or more.

Qualifying and Applying for a Bank Line of Credit

Banks generally want prospective borrowers to demonstrate creditworthiness and steady revenue over at least the past couple of years. Some online lenders also offer business lines of credit and may focus mostly on revenue and not even require business credit scores. Other lenders generally want to see credit scores of at least 600 to 650. Generally, the bank may have certain requirements for the size of the corporate Balance Sheet, corporate liquidity and value of personal assets. The borrower may also need at least six months of revenue, collateral or personal guarantees to secure financing.

Business Credit Cards

Business credit cards work somewhat similarly to lines of credit, though they typically have much smaller maximum balances. For instance:

  • Credit card issuers generally limit maximum balances to around $15,000 – $30,000.
  • Also, except for cash advances, businesses mostly use credit cards for purchases. Cash advances on credit cards usually come with higher interest rates than purchases too. A line of credit actually deposits cash into the business account.

Qualifying and Applying for a Business Credit Card

Qualifying for the best business credit cards generally requires good to excellent credit, with scores over 720. Even so, interest rates often range from 15 percent or more.  Some credit cards also charge an annual fee.

Credit card companies offer online applications and can even provide instant approval decisions. Otherwise, expect to wait from 10 days to two weeks to get approval and a credit card in the mail.

Merchant Cash Advances (MCAs)

Targeted to businesses with steady receipts of credit and debit card sales, a merchant cash advance is a form of non-bank lending that gives businesses the chance to obtain an advance against future sales. The business repays the advance through an agreed-upon percentage of sales which the MCA company automatically withdraws on a daily or weekly basis from the business’s bank account. Fees vary considerably, but compared to most other financing sources, they’re extremely high, from a 30 percent APR up to triple digits.  Generally, merchant cash advances can land small business owners in a never-ending cycle of debt and should be avoided at all costs. 

Qualifying for a Merchant Cash Advance

Lenders will consider historical sales volume to estimate future revenues and will require a personal guarantee to secure funding.  Very often, lenders can execute this process and offer approval decisions within a day or so.

Don’t Wait Until Your PPP Funds Run Out – Call Capstone for Business Funding Today

Capstone offers flexible factoring options for businesses in many industries. In particular, we understand the unique challenges faced by MWDBEs and we have been able to structure a funding platform specifically to support the working capital needs of these types of businesses. Capstone can serve as a primary funding source or can work within an existing bank relationship for opportunities that banks and other lenders have declined or take too long to approve.

Contact us today to tell us more about your business needs, and we will work hard to provide you with the best solution.

ar factoring vs bankline of credit

AR Factoring Vs. Bank Lines of Credit – Pros & Cons Reviewed

09:27 18 May in Blog

Jeff Bezos received the initial capital for Amazon when his parents offered to invest almost their entire life savings in his idea. Most startup and small business owners don’t have this luxury or might prefer to pass on such an offer anyway. Still, companies typically need to seek a source of outside financing in order to manage cash flow and grow.

On the positive side, some financial institutions offer flexible financing for various kinds of businesses. Explore the pros and cons of invoice factoring vs. a bank line of credit, two popular alternatives for new and small business funding. The best solution really depends upon the kind of customers a business has and how they invoice clients.

Pros and Cons of Invoice Factoring Vs. a Bank Line of Credit

Even though invoice factoring (also known as “A/R” or “accounts receivable” factoring) and bank lines of credit can both provide flexible business financing, they don’t work the same way. Most of all:

  • A bank line of credit equals debt: Getting a line of credit from a bank increases the company’s debt on their Balance Sheet. Interest on this debt may indicate that the business ends up having to pay back considerably more than they borrowed. Outstanding debt might make it difficult to qualify for other kinds of financing. High interest on some lines of credit can even generate future financial difficulties.
  • Invoice factoring equals a sale: In contrast to a line of credit, invoice factoring does not increase business debt. In fact, it’s a sale of an asset that generates cash flow. It’s true that factoring companies charge a fee; however, they also relieve the business of the effort of collecting payments and make it easier for businesses to grant and extend credit to their own customers.

Is Qualifying for Invoice Factoring Harder Than Qualifying for a Bank Line of Credit?

In general, qualifying for invoice factoring depends upon:

  • Customers: Factoring companies rely upon the creditworthiness of invoiced customers and not the business selling the invoices. Thus, they favor businesses with B2B or B2G invoices. Most factoring companies also prefer to deal with domestic customers as well.
  • Invoice timing: For non-recourse transactions, the factoring company will assume the risk of collecting receivables and won’t want to take on any additional risk that a business is unable to deliver on the goods or services they’ve billed their customer for. Therefore, the business must submit invoices for delivered goods or services that have been completed/ accepted and not in-process or planned work.

In contrast, businesses need to demonstrate creditworthiness and financial strength to qualify for a bank line of credit. Approval can take time. After approval, banks and similar lenders generally make it relatively easy and fast to draw upon the funds.

How Much Does AR Factoring Cost?

As with any kind of financing, costs may vary depending upon the unique business and the factoring company you use. In general, expect fees to range from two to four percent for the first 30 days a balance is outstanding with the factor company, usually depending upon many factors such as the general creditworthiness of customers and how long it takes them to pay. Typically, businesses can, expect upfront advances of 70 to 80 percent of the total invoice. The factoring company will also issue a rebate for the rest (minus fees) after successful invoice collections.

How Much Does a Bank Line of Credit Cost?

Interest rates typically depend upon the company’s creditworthiness and the size of the draw. For some customers, banks might charge as little as five percent; however, they can charge as much as 20 percent.

With a bank line of credit, the borrowers only need to pay interest on money they actually take and not the entire maximum line of credit. On the other hand, some banks also charge periodic fees to manage the account, even if the business doesn’t use any credit facility.

Is Invoice Factoring or a Bank Line of Credit Better?

For a business with the right kind of receivables, invoice factoring can offer several advantages over a bank line of credit. For example:

  • Lower financing costs: When a factor company pays for invoices, they generally only subtract a small fraction of the total for fees.
  • No additional debt: Businesses sell invoices to a factoring company and don’t need to assume extra debt or pay to service that debt.
  • Reduced collection effort: The factoring company will issue an advance to the seller and handle the collection of the receivable from there.
  • Easier approval for businesses with creditworthy customers: Businesses with domestic B2B or B2G invoices for delivered products and services should enjoy quick approval.

Partner With Capstone for Fast Business Funding

Businesses in all types of industries need to deliver products or services, issue invoices, and then wait to get paid. Capstone’s invoice factoring services can provide upfront funding, so their clients don’t have to wait to get the working capital that they need to pay operating expenses and invest in growth.

Besides invoice factoring, Capstone also offers a variety of funding options for all sorts of companies. Contact Capstone today to find the best funding option for almost any business.

construction mobilization funding

Funding Construction Mobilization With Invoice Factoring

10:45 13 May in Blog

In the construction industry, the term “mobilization” refers to the effort and expense involved in getting a project started. Some common examples of mobilization tasks might include scheduling crews, securing permits, establishing a site office, arranging transportation, renting or buying equipment, buying materials, and even back office support.

All of this advanced preparation requires funding and has to get done before work can commence. Especially for newer construction businesses, it’s this first project phase that tends to generate the most cash flow problems as, typically, mobilization costs are not recouped till long after they are incurred. Without funding these initial steps, the construction businesses are unable to make progress, will struggle to meet performance marks and therefore will not be able to bill out for and obtain progress payments.

That makes mobilization a common source of construction cash flow problems especially for new businesses that haven’t had time to develop cash reserves and might lack experience writing contracts and selecting the best financing options. Sadly, some construction businesses even turn down projects and opportunities for growth simply because they lack the funds to get started and can’t manage cash flow until they do.

How to Plan for Construction Mobilization Funding

Capstone is an expert with construction financing and knows how to help our clients obtain the money they need for all stages of their projects. A good strategy for managing cash flow and obtaining financing for mobilization typically starts by developing a construction mobilization plan.

This mobilization plan can include an overview of:

  • Necessary personal, equipment, and resources
  • Permits, licenses, and other regulatory requirements
  • Funding needed to complete all the mobilization tasks
  • A schedule with key deadlines and performance targets

 

First, this plan should serve as a useful resource to set budgets, compile cash flow projections, and schedules to keep work on track during the mobilization phase. Even the process of developing the plan should improve efficiency by helping planners account for possible obstacles early and ensuring they can get the job done within the customer’s specifications. Even more, the plan can serve as a tool to help obtain quick funding to manage cash flow during the mobilization phase.

Account for Mobilization Efforts Within the Contract

The mobilization plan should serve as a framework to explicitly account for mobilization costs within the project contract. Ideally, negotiating a mobilization clause into the contract will demonstrate the kind of good planning and transparent communication that prompts customers to agree to advance a mobilization fee (or deposit) to fund these necessary expenses.

Customers will see a schedule of values with mobilization costs and understand that their construction partner needs funds to get started. While the customer might not offer to write a check as soon as they’ve signed the contract, the terms of the mobilization clause can allow the construction company to generate an invoice or payment application for a mobilization advance fee.

Even so, construction companies might need to wait an additional 30, 60, or even 90 days for payment from their customers. Rather than waiting for payment on the invoice from their customer, the construction business can present it as documentation to apply for Capstone construction financing. This gives the construction firm the ability to convert their invoices or progress billings for mobilization into immediate cash flow through invoice factoring.  It also allows businesses to offer their own customer’s payment terms and still enjoy rapid funding for their efforts.

How Does Capstone Construction Financing Work?

Capstone’s unique approach to construction financing helps their clients get projects off the ground rapidly and with access to adequate financing. Rather than having to apply for and then assume more debt, the construction company simply factors the customer’s invoice for the agreed-upon advance rate.

With this kind of funding, called construction invoice factoring, the construction company receives money quickly, and Capstone takes on the responsibility of collecting payments for invoices. Unlike most invoice factoring companies, Capstone has the unique ability to accept invoices or payment applications for mobilization and knows how to close these deals.

The simple funding process works like this:

  • Once Capstone verifies the invoice with their client’s credit worthy customer, they are able to provide funds right away.
  • After the customer pays the invoice, according to the invoice terms, Capstone will send along any remaining reserve funds after taking out their factoring fee.

Even more, as the project moves forward, clients may ask Capstone to advance more of their invoices; however, they don’t have any obligation to. This flexible approach leaves construction companies free to ask Capstone for immediate funding when they need it and pass on it when they don’t.

How to Work With Capstone for Fast, Flexible Construction Financing

Working with Capstone means construction companies don’t have to turn down projects of opportunities for growth because they lack the financing to get started. Instead, invoice factoring gives them the chance to take on more work because they won’t need to wait to get paid and in turn, use their funds to manage cash flow.

Take a moment to learn more about Capstone construction funding opportunities. Call or email us at any time to have a conversation with one of your experienced financing representatives or apply online.

invoice factoring fund startups

Is Invoice Factoring an option when starting a company?

12:24 23 April in Blog, Business Funding

Every new business hopes to join the ranks of those famous unicorns that turn profitable right out of the gate. Sadly, most startups fail to meet this goal. Even worse, the best concepts often struggle or even fail within the first few years.

According to research cited by SCORE, almost all budding companies wrestle with cash flow problems — and problems with cash flow management represent the almost universal plague that leads to new business stumbles and even failures.

These startups may have succeeded at bringing ideas to market and even attracting customers; however, 82 percent of failed new businesses just did not have enough funding to grow or, in many cases, keep operating. And for just these kinds of startups, invoice factoring could provide a solution to improve cash flow in ways that would lead to thriving, growing young companies.

Yes, startups should consider invoice factoring as a new business financing option. Find out how invoice factoring will significantly improve cash flow, how it works, and if it’s the right solution for all startups.

How Invoice Factoring Empowers Startups

The most basic kind of invoice factoring refers to selling accounts receivable to a third party. In other words, startups can convert their unpaid invoices into immediate working capital.

New businesses won’t have to wait days, weeks, or even months for their customers to pay invoices. In turn, they can use this money to service more customers, develop new products and services, pay operating expenses, expand marketing, or in whatever way best suits their goals.

Some highlights of the benefits of invoice factoring for new businesses include:

  • Credit building capacity: Factoring can help establish a credit record for a business.  Generally, a new company has no existing credit record making it more difficult to establish lines of credit, negotiate additional payment time with suppliers, and negotiate new contracts. Since factoring depends on the creditworthiness and financial strength of the startup’s customers, it is a great option that allows the business to meet debt obligations promptly.
  • Streamline collections: Collecting payments can be stressful, but not with a dependable factoring company.  Since the factoring company will be in charge of chasing customer payments, the startup can invest its time in more meaningful activities.
  • Minimize risk for payment:  Many non-recourse factoring companies take the credit risk away from the business.  In this structure, they will shoulder all the risk of credit default once they purchase the invoice.
  • Improve cash flow: The business can offer their customers credit and still invigorate cash flow by getting immediate working capital from invoices.
  • Factoring is flexible:  Businesses have options when factoring their accounts receivable. They have the opportunity to include all eligible customer invoices or select a few customers because they have extended payment terms.

How Does Invoice Factoring Work for New Businesses?

Capstone offers flexible factoring options while eliminating hassles. That means startups can start enjoying the benefits of better cash flow and improved efficiency right away. This list explains all the steps involved in invoice factoring a common, flexible solution for startup businesses:

  1. Invoice customers as usual for goods or services rendered.
  2. Complete an easy application and approval process to get started.
  3. Submit copies of invoices (or any type of progress billings) along with required documentation on the receivables chosen for invoice factoring.
  4. Enjoy an immediate advance that usually amounts to 70 to 80 percent of the total invoice value, depending upon the agreement.
  5. After the customer pays, receive a rebate for the remaining balance, minus modest factoring fees.
  6. Repeat when needed.

What are the Best Businesses for Invoice Factoring?

In general, invoice factoring can provide the best solution for companies doing business with creditworthy customers but have delays in cash flow because of a time gap between invoicing for goods or services rendered and getting paid. Other typical characteristics include:

  • Working capital strain due to insufficient credit lines from banks and suppliers
  • Immediate growth opportunity with a product, customer, project, or market share
  • Sells finished goods or services to creditworthy buyers
  • Losing sales and missing sales opportunities
  • Backlog of orders or jobs
  • Trade cycle of 60 – 150 days, or more

 

How to Find the Best Financing Solution for a New Business

Capstone provides essential funding requirements to emerging and growth companies. Take a moment to learn more about Capstone’s flexible options for new business invoice factoring.

Invoice factoring helps new and established businesses manage cash flow and work more efficiently. New companies can discuss their needs and concerns with a Capstone representative to choose the best financing option for their unique situation.

Contact Capstone by email or phone to tell them more about your business needs and goals, so they can help you choose the perfect option.

letters of credit in trade finance

Letters of Credit in Trade Finance

15:50 13 April in Blog

In its basic form, a Letter of Credit (or LC) is a document produced by a financial institution delivered to another financial institution that guarantees an Importer’s payment to an Exporter will be received on time and for the correct amount. The Importer is required to send payment to the issuing institution who then transfers funds to the Exporter’s advising institution or directly to the Exporter. In the end, the Exporter will receive payment as long as the transportation of the goods is compliant with the LC’s terms and conditions. Letters of Credit are most often used between Banks that are in different countries for international trade.

Trade Finance Process Flowchart

Trade Finance Process Flowchart

Letters of Credit Process

  1. Importer and Exporter enter into a Sale Contract.
  2. Importer applies for the Letter of Credit with their Bank.
  3. The Bank issues the LC and sends it to the Exporter’s (Foreign) Bank.
  4. Foreign Bank authenticates & advises the LC.
  5. Exporter receives LC and produces Trade Documents. Once the LC matches the Terms and Conditions of the Sales Contract, the goods are manufactured.
  6. Prior to shipment, the goods are inspected.
  7. Goods are shipped to the Importer.
  8. Exporter submits Trade Documents to their Bank.
  9. Foreign Bank examines the Trade Documents for compliance.
  10. Foreign Bank sends Trade Documents to Issuing Bank who also examines Trade Document for compliance.
  11. If all Terms and Conditions have been met, payment will be disbursed among the parties involved.

Trade Finance

Trade Finance assists with trade cycle funding gaps and allows businesses to obtain goods from a Supplier with cash upfront. When a Supplier abroad is exporting goods to a business partner elsewhere, they will want assurance that payment will be received in a timely fashion. Instead of the business owner paying for goods right away, the institution handling their import financing will instead produce a Letter of Credit that will be presented to the Supplier or their finance company. As previously mentioned, the Letter of Credit serves as a guarantee of payment when the conditions of the initial Supplier agreement are met. Upon receipt of goods, payment is made to the Supplier or their finance company.

This arrangement can be used for a one-time purchase of supplies or continuingly if there will be a lasting business relationship between the Importer and the Exporter.

Reasons to Use an LC with Trade Finance

There are a few key reasons why an LC should be used with Trade Finance

  • First, International Trade between countries is difficult due to a variety of issues including differing laws, customs, languages, currencies, and so forth.
  • In general, LCs offer a more secure method of payment for both parties involved.
  • Next, the financial institutions handling the transaction offer their expertise and resources for aiding the completion of the transaction.
  • The central benefit of using an LC is that it mitigates the risk of the buyer missing their payments, especially if the Seller is unsure of the buyer’s credit.

Need funding for trade? Capstone is here to help: Let us work with you today to help you find the best solution to your cash needs without taking on more debt. Whether you are facing an immediate one-time need for cash to secure a contract, or you require a long-term solution to cash flow, contact our skilled team of representatives today and let us work with you to find the best options for your funding needs.

 

 

 

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