Anyloan Australia :: Articles

Business Loans: Managing interest rate risks

Business Loans: Managing interest rate risks

Business Loans: Managing interest rate risks
I want the protection in the current low interest rate environment but I don't want to be locked in for too long a period - a commonly heard requirement from business borrowers.
Businesses can often find themselves adversely affected by interest rate changes.

Fixed or variable?

Choosing either a fixed or variable interest rate may not provide the perfect solution for your interest rate needs.
Whilst fixed interest rate borrowers cannot benefit from any interest rate falls, variable interest rate borrowers may find that they are exposed to the risk of rising interest rates.
Successful businesses are continually required to meet increasing demands requiring greater sophistication.

Strategies

Business Plant & Equipment Finance
Image for Business Plant & Equipment FinanceLooking for the best way to finance your business plant & equipment? Well, you need look no further! Simply submit our 2-minute business loan enquiry form ... and we'll help get you qualified for the best rate Plant & Equipment loan available from our national panel of independent business finance brokers. We also have access to the best rates & options for Business Cashflow finance. So, why not give us a go ... no charge, no obligation!
Many institutions are able to respond to sensitivities to interest rate movements with customised interest rate risk management strategies to suit your business.
To find the strategy that best fits your requirements you should consider whether, overall, you need the flexibility of a variable interest rate, or the certainty of a fixed interest rate.
There are many innovative interest rate, risk management products in the Australian market designed for the current interest rate environment offering businesses:
  • flexibility.
  • the ability to minimise interest rate risk.
  • interest rate protection with the ability to benefit from lower interest rates.
Larger institutions offer Business Bankers and Risk Management Specialists as part of their service to help identify financial products which may help reduce interest rate risk and uncertainties facing business borrowers.
For example Flexible Maturity Fixed Rate Bills provide a known fixed rate for a total term, say, five years.
The first three year period is fixed plus an optional two year extension period.

Capped Rate Bill

Another example is a variation of the standard Capped Rate Bill, where the customer pays a premium either up-front or in arrears and gives the borrower a known maximum cost of borrowing.
For example if the borrower has a set view on interest rates, or would like to take out some "disaster insurance", the Pay-If-Used Capped Rate Bill provides maximum known interest rate protection from interest rate rises for up to five years – and the business pays for it only if the cap rate is reached.

Think ahead

Try to identify peaks and troughs in cashflows to forecast business needs.
The institution may be able to provide specialised borrowing alternatives in periods where seasonal requirements fluctuate.
A new borrowing strategy may help you to conserve much-needed cash during the post-Christmas period and use credit funds (and not over-draft) to make loan repayments during the month.

Published: Sunday, 1st Aug 2021
Author: Paige Estritori


Finance Articles

Debt Management Tips to Keep Your Credit Score Healthy Debt Management Tips to Keep Your Credit Score Healthy
Debt management involves strategies and practices designed to help individuals control their debt and maintain a healthy financial standing. It includes everything from budgeting and tracking expenses to negotiating better terms with creditors and consolidating debts for easier repayment. - read more
Smart Saving for Big Purchases: Training Your Dollars to Work Harder Smart Saving for Big Purchases: Training Your Dollars to Work Harder
With the rising costs of living and the all-too-familiar financial hurdles, saving for large purchases can seem like a daunting task for many Australians. From buying a new car to securing the deposit on a home, significant expenses require a level of financial commitment and foresight that goes beyond everyday spending. - read more
Your Complete Guide to Debt Consolidation Down Under Your Complete Guide to Debt Consolidation Down Under
As Australians navigate their personal financial journey, understanding how to manage debt effectively becomes crucial. From dealing with various lines of credit to juggling personal loans, the concept of debt consolidation often emerges as a viable strategy to regain control of financial health. This guide delves deep into the heart of debt consolidation's landscape in Australia, offering a comprehensive examination of what it entails, its benefits, and its potential drawbacks. - read more
The Impact of Credit Scores on Loan Applications: How to Borrow Smartly The Impact of Credit Scores on Loan Applications: How to Borrow Smartly
Credit scores play a crucial role in loan applications, determining eligibility and interest rates for borrowers. Understanding how credit scores are calculated and the impact they have on loan applications is essential for anyone who wants to borrow smartly. - read more
The Art of Loan Management: An Essential Skill for Australians The Art of Loan Management: An Essential Skill for Australians
Loan management skills are crucial for individuals and families in Australia, as they play a vital role in managing finances and achieving financial stability. Effective loan management enables individuals to make sound financial decisions and avoid falling into debt traps. This article aims to highlight the importance of acquiring loan management skills and how it can benefit Australians. - read more
Australian Loan Application Checklist: What You Need to Know Australian Loan Application Checklist: What You Need to Know
When applying for a loan in Australia, it's essential to have a clear understanding of the loan application process. Whether you are applying for a home loan, personal loan, or business loan, knowing the necessary steps and having all the required documents ready can save you time and frustration. - read more
The Power of a Good Credit Score: Tips to Maintain and Protect Yours The Power of a Good Credit Score: Tips to Maintain and Protect Yours
Credit scores play a crucial role in the financial journey of any individual, especially in Australia where they serve as a snapshot of your financial reliability. This numerical expression based on a level analysis of a person's credit files has a far-reaching impact on various aspects of financial borrowings. - read more
How to Improve Your Credit Score in 30 Days How to Improve Your Credit Score in 30 Days
Understanding your credit score is crucial, especially when you're looking to secure a loan. Whether it's for a home, a car, or personal use, a good credit score can make a significant difference in the type of loan you qualify for and the interest rates you'll be offered. - read more
Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating the Loan Application Process Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating the Loan Application Process
Welcome to our step-by-step guide to navigating the loan application process! Whether you're seeking a home loan, personal loan, or business loan, the journey can seem overwhelming. - read more
Top Mistakes to Avoid After Getting Your Loan Approved Top Mistakes to Avoid After Getting Your Loan Approved
Getting your loan approved is a significant milestone, but it also opens the door to many new responsibilities. Proper management of your finances after loan approval is crucial to avoid common pitfalls that could derail your financial stability. - read more

Finance News

Increasing Number of Qualified Financial Advisers Opt Out of Practice Increasing Number of Qualified Financial Advisers Opt Out of Practice
11 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent analysis from WealthData indicates a growing trend among financial advisers in Australia, where a significant portion of those who have successfully passed the financial adviser exam are opting not to practice. As of now, 5,096 individuals, representing 33.31% of active advisers, have chosen not to proceed into practice after passing the exam—up from 28.36% a year prior. - read more
Melbourne's Housing Market: A Prime Opportunity For Buyers Melbourne's Housing Market: A Prime Opportunity For Buyers
11 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) recently surprised many by maintaining the interest rate at 3.85%, against expectations of a cut. This decision is seen as a measure to continue moderating inflation, but it simultaneously delays potential spikes in the housing market, providing a favorable window for prospective homebuyers. In particular, Melbourne's current market presents significant value, offering a promising opportunity for those looking to enter the property market. - read more
Improving EOFY Planning: The Call for ATO Portal Access for Advisers Improving EOFY Planning: The Call for ATO Portal Access for Advisers
09 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

In a recent discussion, James O'Reilly, Director and Financial Planner at Northeast Wealth, underscored the benefits that could come from granting financial advisers access to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) portal. Speaking on The ifa Show, O'Reilly proposed that this access would significantly simplify the services financial advisers provide to clients, particularly at tax time and the end of the financial year (EOFY). - read more
RBA Holds Rates Steady, Shocking Markets and Shifting Economic Expectations RBA Holds Rates Steady, Shocking Markets and Shifting Economic Expectations
09 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has decided to keep the official cash rate steady at 3.85%, taking many by surprise after expectations of a 25-basis-point cut had built up in financial circles. This unexpected move comes amid recent data indicating easing inflation and weaker than anticipated economic growth, conflicting with prior predictions of a cut. - read more
RBA to Continue Interest Rate Cuts Amid High Unemployment RBA to Continue Interest Rate Cuts Amid High Unemployment
08 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is anticipated to maintain its trajectory of incremental interest rate reductions, according to insights from leading financial analysts at ANZ. Recent data from the ANZ-Indeed Australian Job Ads series revealed a rise from 114.8 in May to 116.9 in June, suggesting a potential rebound in job advertisements after previous declines. Despite a stable unemployment rate and hours-based underutilisation rate since mid-2024, the Australian labour market remains strained. - read more

Need Help Finding a Loan?
Find out now if you qualify and compare rates, offers and options from multiple lenders - without a credit check!
Loan Amount:
Postcode:
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation.
We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Second Mortgage:
A type of subordinate mortgage made while an original mortgage is still in effect.


Quick Links: | Compare Loans | Bad Credit Loans | Finance For Self-employed | Low Rates | Free Loan Assessment