Access to credit remains a critical issue for small businesses. The OnDeck + Ocrolus Small Business Cash Flow Trend Report reveals that a significant number of businesses are turning to alternative lenders, driven by the need for faster and more accessible funding options. Lets explore the report a bit more.
Methodology
The Q2 2024 report is based on:
Survey responses from 413 small businesses with working capital loans from OnDeck
Cash flow data from over 2.3 million small business applications for working capital financing during a 13-month period (in part from Ocrolus).
Survey conducted between June 23 - 28, 2024
Noteworthy results and my comments:
Nearly 75% of small businesses reported bypassing a traditional bank loan, seeking out alternative lenders as their primary funding option — up from 71.6% in Q1.
My take: Yet another data point showing banks are behind, even though they may not care if the deal size is too small. But there is a market for those deals that are being serviced by alternative lenders.
Small business owners remain optimistic with 91.5% anticipating moderate to significant growth over the next six months, slightly lower than the 93% reported in Q1.
My take: A positive sign for the economy when small business owners remain optimistic given an election is coming up.
61% of businesses reported accepting alternative and real-time payment methods in the Q2 customer survey, up from 55% in Q1 of 2024.
71% of businesses reported having enough cash to cover at least one or more months of operating expenses, similar to Q1’s 70%.
My take: This really should be higher but lets you know how small businesses are operating on a short runway
The primary reason for not applying for bank funding is the hassle of paperwork, cited by 50% of respondents. Among those who did apply (25%), one-third were denied, highlighting ongoing difficulties in securing loans from traditional banks.
My take: See my comments on the first bullet point but in addition when business owners have been in existence for 20+ years and still getting denied by banks there is a major problem.
Payroll-to-Revenue Ratio: at 18.63%, which is about the same (plus or minute 1 pt) has been for about 1 year.
My take: An Underrated statistic that should be at the forefront when growing a team.
For the full Small Business Cash Flow Trend Report, click HERE.
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