In the dynamic world of financial services, institutions – from traditional banks to alternative lenders – are under immense pressure to evolve. While they form the “backbone of financial services for small and mid-sized businesses”, many struggle with customer loyalty due to systemic shortcomings, including rigid, one-size-fits-all financial solutions and underqualified talent. This presents a “massive opportunity” for those willing to change, particularly in addressing the $1 trillion market of underserved small businesses.
Finance
In 2024, U.S. insurers leaned more heavily on outsourced investment management than ever before. According to a new report from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), more than half of all insurers now outsource some or all of their investment decisions—and the number is still climbing.
Amid rising costs, talent scarcity, and compliance pressure, finance leaders in insurance and specialty finance are increasingly turning to outsourced F&A solutions. Here’s what’s shaping the global landscape—and how smart firms are responding now.
Global financial markets are grappling with heightened volatility as a confluence of geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, and policy shifts reshape the investment landscape in 2025.
Debt settlement has long been a last resort for financially distressed borrowers—but it’s increasingly becoming a challenge for lenders, too. With more consumers defaulting and entering settlement arrangements, the recovery environment is shifting fast. Lenders now face a balancing act: managing losses while maintaining reputational trust.
Small and midsize businesses (SMBs) across the U.S. are facing mounting pressure as working capital tightens. Between inflation, interest rate volatility, and extended payment cycles, even well-run companies are finding themselves in a cash flow bind. But while the problem is complex, one solution gaining traction is a strategic rethinking of operational support—particularly in collections and factoring.
Starting July 1, 2025, California’s debt collection landscape will change significantly, with new regulations that impact small business loans. For creditors and debt collectors in the commercial finance space, the state’s latest law imposes strict protections typically reserved for consumer debt—putting new demands on collections for commercial loans of $500,000 or less. The new rules could have major implications, especially for in-house collection teams and creditors, who will now be subject to the same restrictions as consumer debt collectors.
As we move into the first quarter of 2025, the economic landscape is shaping up to be one of divergence, dispersion, and bifurcation. Broad shifts in the labor market, rising inflation expectations, and ongoing government policy changes are creating both challenges and opportunities for businesses and investors alike. Here’s a look at some of the key trends you need to know for navigating the year ahead.
While this enforcement originated in the U.K., its implications extend far beyond British borders. U.S.-based financial firms with international operations—or those doing business with U.K. counterparts—should pay close attention. Here’s why:
Factoring has long been associated with manufacturing, trucking, and wholesale distribution. However, commercial finance brokers are breaking new ground by introducing factoring to industries that historically underutilized it. By educating business owners, addressing misconceptions, and tailoring solutions, brokers are unlocking fresh opportunities. Here, we explore three real-world case studies where factoring transformed businesses across unexpected sectors.