New figures published today by the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA) show its members provided £84.3 billion of new lending in the first half of 2026, 5% higher than in the same period last year, helping businesses invest, households make essential purchases and supporting economic growth across the UK.
The figures underline the central role specialist lenders continue to play in the UK's economy by providing the finance businesses and households need to invest with confidence despite continued economic uncertainty.
In the first half of 2026:
- £21.0 billion was provided to businesses to invest in machinery, equipment and vehicles, including £13.0 billion to SMEs.
- £63.3 billion was provided to households, including £22.7 billion to finance new and used car purchases.
- £34.4 billion of new lending was provided by non-bank lenders, highlighting the importance of a diverse and competitive finance market.
Shanika Amarasekara MBE, FLA CEO, said:
"Behind every one of those £84 billion of lending decisions is a business investing for the future or a household making an important purchase. Whether it is an SME buying new equipment, a family replacing a vehicle or a company investing in technology, access to finance helps turn confidence into economic activity.
“The UK's long-term growth depends on businesses continuing to invest and consumers having access to competitive, responsible finance. Our members provide the financial infrastructure that enables that investment every day, supporting productivity, innovation and opportunity in every nation and region of the UK.
“As policymakers focus on driving sustainable economic growth, maintaining a diverse, competitive and innovative finance market will be essential to ensuring businesses and households continue to have access to the funding they need to thrive."
