Confidence in the future of the UK economy remains mixed among commercial finance brokers, according to new research from SME funding provider Asset Advantage.
The survey of commercial brokers across the UK found that nearly half (49%) remain neutral on the outlook of the economy in the next 12 months. Meanwhile, more than a quarter (28%) hold a pessimistic view.
More than two-in-ten brokers say they feel optimistic about the UK economy’s chances in the coming year, highlighting the mixed feelings among brokers as businesses weigh up investment decisions against wider market and economic headwinds.
Speaking to Asset Advantage, commercial brokers pinpointed a range of pressures impacting economic prospects, most notably government taxation, business confidence, increasing operating costs and inflationary pressures.
One broker stated “cashflow and uncertainty” as key issues, saying: “Decisions are taking longer as businesses feel the pinch and have to be careful with additional investment.”
Another broker added: “Inflationary pressures mean businesses make lower profit which in turn affects their serviceability and ability to borrow.”
Despite this, separate research by Asset Advantage found that commercial brokers are still broadly positive about their business prospects for the coming 12 months, expecting strong demand for both asset finance and business acquisition funding among small and medium-sized enterprises.
Gary Thompson, sales director at Asset Advantage, said: “While there’s still very much strong demand for business funding, there’s no doubt that many businesses are feeling cautious in the current climate. Big factors such as higher operational costs, inflationary pressures and both geopolitical and economic uncertainty all continue to have an impact on business confidence and influence borrowing and investment decisions.
“Against this backdrop, the case for flexible funding options from pragmatic and forward-thinking funders becomes ever clearer. Working with expert commercial brokers, specialists funders who are willing to support complex, growth-focused deals will be key to giving SMEs the confidence they need to push ahead with their expansion plans. Brokers play a critical role in fostering confidence among their clients and demonstrating what is possible. To ensure they can continue doing this, they need the support of specialist funders and providers.”
