Starting a business is an exhilarating journey filled with dreams, aspirations, and no small amount of stress. It’s not uncommon for new businesses to require capital to cover various expenses such as office space, equipment, marketing, and payroll. For most startups, this means borrowing money either through loans or investors. But how do you avoid falling into a debt trap that could potentially sink your venture?
The severity of loan failures
Here are a couple of statistics that underline the severity of loan failures, especially in the context of small businesses and startups:
- Failure Rate: According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 20% of new businesses fail during the first two years of being open, 45% during the first five years, and 65% during the first 10 years. While not all of these failures are due to loan default, financial difficulties including debt burden are significant contributors.
- Non-Performing Loans: According to the World Bank, the global average of non-performing loans was around 6% as of 2019. In this statistic, “non-performing” means that payments on the loan are overdue by 90 days or more. This statistic is a general measure that includes all types of loans, not just business loans, but it highlights the prevalence of loan default risks.
Understanding the Risks
Before taking out any form of credit, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved. Debt is essentially leverage, and while it can propel your business forward when used wisely, it can also drag it down if managed poorly. The terms of the loan—interest rates, repayment timelines, and any penalties for default—should be fully understood. If these are not handled judiciously, your startup may get caught in a cycle of debt that can be hard to escape.
Start with a Robust Business Plan
A strong business plan serves as a roadmap, providing you with a clearer picture of how much money you actually need and how you plan to generate revenue to pay it back. Be conservative in your revenue projections and don’t underestimate expenses. Your business plan should justify the amount you intend to borrow and demonstrate a feasible plan for financial stability and growth.
Shop Around for the Best Loan Terms
Not all loans are created equal. Banks, online lenders, and venture capitalists all offer different terms, interest rates, and loan types. Take the time to understand these and shop around. There are also different types of loans to consider, such as short-term and long-term loans, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Keep an Eye on Cash Flow
Cash flow is king for any startup. To ensure that you can meet your loan repayments, you need to keep a very close eye on your cash flow. Utilize financial management software, or even hire a financial advisor if necessary, to monitor your cash flows, accounts receivable, and accounts payable.
Don’t Overextend Yourself
It’s easy to be overly optimistic about your business’s prospects, but overborrowing can lead to a precarious financial situation. Borrow only what you need and have a clear plan for how you’ll use the funds. If you’ve already taken a loan and find your startup in a stable financial position earlier than expected, consider early repayment to save on interest.
Have a Contingency Plan
Life is unpredictable, and businesses are not immune to unforeseen circumstances. Whether it’s a global pandemic or a new competitor in the market, having a contingency plan can help you navigate tough times without drowning in debt.
Monitor and Reassess
The financial landscape of your startup will evolve over time. Regularly reassess your financial obligations, cash flow, and business plan. Make adjustments as needed, whether that means renegotiating loan terms or taking out an additional loan to fund a new opportunity, always with a focus on long-term financial health.
A Major Case Study of a failed loan: Lehman Brothers
One of the most high-profile examples of a major company failing to pay back its loans is Lehman Brothers, an investment bank that filed for bankruptcy in 2008. Although not a startup, Lehman’s fall is illustrative of how poor financial management can result in catastrophic outcomes, even for well-established firms.
What Happened?
Lehman Brothers was heavily involved in issuing and trading mortgage-backed securities, especially those related to subprime mortgages. When the real estate bubble burst in the U.S., the bank found itself holding a massive portfolio of devalued assets. Lehman had leveraged itself significantly, borrowing large sums of money to invest in assets that it believed would continue to increase in value. When those assets plummeted, Lehman was unable to meet its debt obligations, leading to its bankruptcy filing on September 15, 2008. At the time, it was the largest bankruptcy filing in U.S. history, with Lehman holding over $600 billion in assets.
Why Did Lehman Fail to Pay Its Loans?
- Overleveraging: Lehman borrowed extensively to invest in mortgage-backed securities, effectively gambling on the continued growth of the U.S. housing market.
- Poor Risk Management: The risks associated with subprime mortgages and the housing market were not adequately assessed or managed.
- Lack of Transparency: Lehman Brothers was criticized for its opaque financial statements, which made it difficult for investors and regulators to fully understand the extent of its financial problems until it was too late.
- Economic Downturn: The broader economic context also played a role. The collapse of the subprime mortgage market led to a financial crisis that affected many other institutions, creating a negative feedback loop that exacerbated Lehman’s problems.
Beware the risks of loan failure!
Borrowing is often an essential part of launching a startup, but it’s crucial to approach it responsibly to maintain your business’s financial health. By doing your due diligence, shopping around for the best terms, and constantly monitoring your financial situation, you can utilize loans as a tool for growth rather than a trap that ensnares you in perpetual debt.
0 Comments