Looking for further proof small businesses are in need of alternative financing options like factoring? The ongoing credit squeeze has companies turning to an unlikely lender…the pawnshop!
Many pawnshops are reporting that over half their customers are now small business owners that are basically pawning to meet payroll.
Lured by the high price of gold and ease of credit, they are bringing in everything from engagement rings to high end watches for a quick cash infusion as revealed in a recent article from CNN Money entitled Pawning Rolexes to Make Payroll (Source: http://money.cnn.com/2011/08/02/smallbusiness/small_business_loans_pawn_shop/index.htm)
While selling the gold is one option, using a pawnshop allows the business owner to utilize the assets as security for a loan. If the loan isn’t repaid within the specified time frame, generally 30 to 60 days, the pawnbroker keeps the items.
The advantage is fast cash without credit checks or restrictive guidelines. The downside of course is the interest rate. It’s not uncommon to see monthly interest rates of 5%, as reported by one business owner using gold and jewelry for a $20,000 loan.
Factoring Invoices – A Viable Alternative to Pawning for Payroll
Rather than pawning for payroll, small business owners can turn to less expensive options like selling accounts receivable. In today’s competitive market factoring fees often average less than 5%.
Instead of making a loan, factoring companies purchase outstanding invoices at a discounted rate. They look to the strength of the customer or debtor on the invoice instead of the business selling the invoice, making it a viable option for businesses that aren’t considered “bank quality” to traditional lenders.
To learn more about the factoring industry check out these articles:
Comparing Factoring Companies
How Factoring Brokers Earn Fees
Factoring Broker Training – Don’t Make These Three Mistakes
excellent insight.