Fall in lending to businesses seen in May

June 29, 2010 by Reno  
Filed under News, News-Banking

According to recent reports the level of lending to UK businesses fell in May, despite efforts from industry groups and the government to try and boost lending by banks to businesses. Whilst the level of mortgage lending in May improved compared to the previous month the level of business lending took another hit.

The figures have been released by the British Banker’s Association. The level of lending to private, non-financial companies is said to have plunged by £1.3 billion in the month of May, which was slightly higher than the fall seen in April but slightly lower than the average decline seen over the past six months.

These businesses are said to form the backbone of Britain’s economy, and many have highlighted the importance of enabling these businesses to borrow the money that they need. However, banks are still being very cautious when it comes to lending, as many are still reeling from the financial meltdown.

In addition to this the falling demand for finance from these businesses is also affecting lending levels, and many businesses are loathe to take out costly loans and finance in the current climate. With fewer businesses wanting to take the financial risk of borrowing more money demand levels have fallen and subsequently so have lending levels.

Officials have also said that there has been an increase in retail sales, with the higher property sales levels now impacting upon the retail sector. Household goods and furniture retailers were said to have seen improvement, as did grocery retailers who may have benefitted from people stocking up for the World Cup.  Electrical retailers also benefitted as a result of people buying new television sets in preparation for the World Cup.

Tags: business, bank, credit, finance, loan

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