There is an honest trade-off in business finance that providers do not always spell out: the faster money arrives, the more it can cost. Quick decisions mean lighter checks and more risk for the lender, and that risk has a price. Comparing options well means being clear about which side of that trade-off you actually need.
When speed is worth paying for
- A time-limited opportunity, such as discounted stock you can resell.
- An urgent operational need that will cost more if it waits.
- A short, self-liquidating use where the funds are repaid quickly.
When it probably isn't
- A purchase that can wait a few weeks without harm.
- Long-term investment where a slower, lower-cost route serves better.
- Cases where rushing leads you to skip reading the terms.
How to compare fairly
Ask each provider how quickly they can decide and fund, then ask what the total cost across the term will be. Put those side by side. A few days saved rarely justifies a much larger total repayment unless the timing genuinely earns its keep.
Credicorp's approach
Credicorp aims for clear decisions for UK limited companies and LLPs, with the cost and term set out in your offer. We would always rather you took the time to read your agreement than felt rushed. Speed should serve your business, not pressure it. For a like-for-like view on cost, see Credicorp vs a bank business loan.
See also: Direct lender vs broker: which should you use?, How to build a sensible shortlist of business lenders, A simple framework for comparing business finance options.