It is important that businesses that have interest rate hedging deals (SWAP’s) which are subject to the current review do ensure that they are engaged with their bank through the process. This review has been instigated by the FSA and the first pilots have recently reported their findings, concluding that there is indeed a potential Read more about SWAP’s review – what happens next?[…]

SME’s continue to have well publicised frustrations in accessing finance, even for growth funding when they have confirmed contracts which you would think would justify cashflow support. On the other hand, bankers continue to present tales of a lack of demand or suitable propositions to justify the fact that their lending growth is below target. Read more about Innovations in SME lending – Santander have impressed[…]

With an estimated £160 billion lending gap in the UK (with much coming from property loans that need to be renewed upon expiry) there were high hopes over the last couple of years that Insurance companies, awash with funds, would become ‘the cavalry’ and fill the gap left by reticent bankers. Where have they got Read more about Insurance companies as lenders[…]

Often when someone is contacted by their alma mater their immediate reaction is that they are asking for money. The reason is understandable; they often are just seeking donations (for some Universities it is an important income stream). This is not however the way to develop the relationship with Alumni – my daughter refuses to take Read more about An Alumni’s contribution to a University[…]