Latest news with #FundingCircle
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
UK SME lender Funding Circle enables ninth public securitisation
UK SME finance platform Funding Circle has facilitated its ninth public securitisation, SBOLT 2025-1, with loans contributed by Waterfall Asset Management. The latest development brings the total securitised issuance through the platform to approximately £2.17bn ($2.91bn). Funding Circle said that investor demand for its SME loans and related bonds underscores the asset's attractiveness, reinforcing its position as one of the leading issuers of SME asset-backed securities in the UK and Europe over the last ten years. It added that the securitisation was 'well-received by' the market, even amid significant economic fluctuations. BNP Paribas served as the sole arranger, with Citi as joint-lead manager. Funding Circle's platform and technology allow institutional investors to deploy capital to a diverse range of UK SMEs. Funding Circle chief capital officer Dipesh Mehta said: 'This transaction is a testament to the track record Funding Circle has built, and the strength and attractiveness of UK SME credit as an asset class, highlighting our advanced capabilities in assisting our investor partners to access deep and liquid capital markets. 'Despite challenging market conditions, the positive reception for this issuance demonstrates continued investor appetite for these assets. We remain committed to empowering our institutional partners to effectively deploy capital to hardworking SMEs across the UK, fostering economic growth and opportunity.' In March 2025, Funding Circle reported a profit before tax of £3.4m for 2024, excluding exceptional items. This marked a turnaround from the previous year's loss of £9.9m. Credit extended soared 47% year-on-year to £1.89bn while balances under management slightly decreased to £2.83bn from £2.92bn in the previous year. The company's revenue grew to £160.1m, compared with £130.1m a year ago. Term loans, in particular, saw an increase in profitability, with profit before tax pre-exceptionals reaching £19m, up from £6.5m in 2023. "UK SME lender Funding Circle enables ninth public securitisation " was originally created and published by Leasing Life, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
North Wales Live
19-05-2025
- Business
- North Wales Live
Brits will change jobs seven times before they retire - with one in three wanting to switch roles
The average employee expects to switch roles seven times before retirement, equating to a new job roughly every seven years, a study has revealed. A survey of 2,000 workers highlighted that the pursuit of higher salaries (56%), improved work-life balance (42%), and career advancement opportunities (26%) are key motivators for job changes. Additional factors such as enhanced workplace perks (26%) and leaving behind negative work environments (24%) also significantly influence career moves. Moreover, the allure of a stable 9 to 5 schedule is strong, with 95% of those surveyed valuing this traditional work structure. The research also found that 76% believe younger employees are more inclined to switch careers frequently compared to their older counterparts. This trend is reflected in the data, with 39% of respondents across all age brackets open to job changes—65% of these are from Generation Z and 32% from Generation X. While nearly half (46%) of Generation Z workers report job-hopping every few years for progression, 60% of baby boomers tend to remain in one position for the long haul. Across all demographics, 44% have ventured into different industries multiple times. Alexander Allen, managing director and chief customer officer at Funding Circle, an SME finance platform, commented: "Our research shows that people value passion over money when pursuing a job." He added: "It's been interesting to find out how perceptions compare between different generations when it comes to changing jobs or starting a completely new career. "Although there are many job opportunities, it's great to see that culture is highly valued with a combined 50% look to move jobs due to a toxic work environment and better benefits. Yes, money is always going to be a huge draw, but a working schedule that suits the individual and their life outside work, is almost as valuable for some. Knowing what support small businesses need comes through years of experience, and making sure they have the right tools available to succeed is crucial." Essex-based small business owner Laura Daly, who utilised Funding Circle to expand her bridal shop venture, Bellissima Weddings, has had a diverse career history including stints as a professional singer, dancer, and model, as well as supermarket work in her early years. Laura reflected positively on her varied early employment experiences, crediting them with imparting valuable lessons she now applies in her enterprise. She remarked: "When I worked in a supermarket, my task was to engage customers and promote whatever offers there were each day. I learned very quickly that if you engage people in conversation and let them tell you something about themselves first, you can sell something to them much easier than if you jump straight into a sales pitch. In my 20s I was dancing – and I loved every minute of it. The self-discipline and ability to take personal criticism without being offended were lessons that have stuck with me for life." With the backing of Funding Circle, known for supporting small enterprises with the necessary finance to expand and develop, Laura was able to grow her business. She explained: "I knew what we wanted, and realised it would take a huge lump of money to do what we wanted to do. We had got to the point where we desperately needed to refurbish the whole shop. "I started to look at where we could borrow and I loved the minute we started looking at Funding Circle. I said to my husband Michael if we're going to take money from anyone, it's going to be them. I never felt like I'd sold my soul to the bank. It was a completely different way of thinking and it filled me with confidence into actually taking the money." A study conducted by OnePoll revealed that 73% of Gen Z are willing to consider a brand-new career path, whereas only 33% of Boomers feel comfortable with such a change. Over a third (35%) of those aged between 60-78 reckon their generation values stability over change, in stark contrast to just 18% of 18-28 year olds. Meanwhile, 37% of the younger demographic view frequent job switches as 'normal' – a sentiment shared by a mere four per cent of Boomers. The survey also disclosed that 36% of those aged between 60 and 78 believe the job market is tougher for the younger generation now than when they began their careers. Additionally, 30% of respondents attribute this to the current economic climate, particularly affecting young people who are keen to switch career paths. Laura offered guidance to young individuals entering a challenging job market, advising them to "choose a career path that gives you joy or feeds a passion". She further commented: "It really is true that if you do a job that you love, it will never feel like work. Scope out organisations and companies that offer upward mobility and in-house training to get you there, there's never any shame in starting at the bottom - some of the best CEO's have done just that."
Wales Online
19-05-2025
- Business
- Wales Online
Brits will change jobs seven times before they retire - with one in three wanting to switch roles
Brits will change jobs seven times before they retire - with one in three wanting to switch roles A poll of 2,000 employees found more money (56 per cent), better work-life balance (42 per cent) and progression opportunities (26 per cent) among the main reasons for moving jobs The average worker thinks they will go through seven jobs by the time they retire – one every seven years, according to research. (Image: PinPep ) The average employee expects to switch roles seven times before retirement, equating to a new job roughly every seven years, a study has revealed. A survey of 2,000 workers highlighted that the pursuit of higher salaries (56%), improved work-life balance (42%), and career advancement opportunities (26%) are key motivators for job changes. Additional factors such as enhanced workplace perks (26%) and leaving behind negative work environments (24%) also significantly influence career moves. Moreover, the allure of a stable 9 to 5 schedule is strong, with 95% of those surveyed valuing this traditional work structure. The research also found that 76% believe younger employees are more inclined to switch careers frequently compared to their older counterparts. This trend is reflected in the data, with 39% of respondents across all age brackets open to job changes—65% of these are from Generation Z and 32% from Generation X. While nearly half (46%) of Generation Z workers report job-hopping every few years for progression, 60% of baby boomers tend to remain in one position for the long haul. Across all demographics, 44% have ventured into different industries multiple times. Alexander Allen, managing director and chief customer officer at Funding Circle, an SME finance platform, commented: "Our research shows that people value passion over money when pursuing a job." He added: "It's been interesting to find out how perceptions compare between different generations when it comes to changing jobs or starting a completely new career. "Although there are many job opportunities, it's great to see that culture is highly valued with a combined 50% look to move jobs due to a toxic work environment and better benefits. Yes, money is always going to be a huge draw, but a working schedule that suits the individual and their life outside work, is almost as valuable for some. Knowing what support small businesses need comes through years of experience, and making sure they have the right tools available to succeed is crucial." Article continues below Small business owner, Laura Daly, from Essex, used Funding Circle to help grow her bridal shop business (Image: PinPep ) Essex-based small business owner Laura Daly, who utilised Funding Circle to expand her bridal shop venture, Bellissima Weddings, has had a diverse career history including stints as a professional singer, dancer, and model, as well as supermarket work in her early years. Laura reflected positively on her varied early employment experiences, crediting them with imparting valuable lessons she now applies in her enterprise. She remarked: "When I worked in a supermarket, my task was to engage customers and promote whatever offers there were each day. I learned very quickly that if you engage people in conversation and let them tell you something about themselves first, you can sell something to them much easier than if you jump straight into a sales pitch. In my 20s I was dancing – and I loved every minute of it. The self-discipline and ability to take personal criticism without being offended were lessons that have stuck with me for life." With the backing of Funding Circle, known for supporting small enterprises with the necessary finance to expand and develop, Laura was able to grow her business. She explained: "I knew what we wanted, and realised it would take a huge lump of money to do what we wanted to do. We had got to the point where we desperately needed to refurbish the whole shop. "I started to look at where we could borrow and I loved the minute we started looking at Funding Circle. I said to my husband Michael if we're going to take money from anyone, it's going to be them. I never felt like I'd sold my soul to the bank. It was a completely different way of thinking and it filled me with confidence into actually taking the money." Laura also gave advice to young jobseekers looking to enter a competitive employment market, telling them to 'choose a career path that gives you joy or feeds a passion'. (Image: PinPep ) Article continues below A study conducted by OnePoll revealed that 73% of Gen Z are willing to consider a brand-new career path, whereas only 33% of Boomers feel comfortable with such a change. Over a third (35%) of those aged between 60-78 reckon their generation values stability over change, in stark contrast to just 18% of 18-28 year olds. Meanwhile, 37% of the younger demographic view frequent job switches as 'normal' – a sentiment shared by a mere four per cent of Boomers. The survey also disclosed that 36% of those aged between 60 and 78 believe the job market is tougher for the younger generation now than when they began their careers. Additionally, 30% of respondents attribute this to the current economic climate, particularly affecting young people who are keen to switch career paths. Laura offered guidance to young individuals entering a challenging job market, advising them to "choose a career path that gives you joy or feeds a passion". She further commented: "It really is true that if you do a job that you love, it will never feel like work. Scope out organisations and companies that offer upward mobility and in-house training to get you there, there's never any shame in starting at the bottom - some of the best CEO's have done just that."
Daily Mirror
19-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Mirror
Survey claims Brits will have seven different jobs before retirement
A new survey has found the average worker thinks they will go through seven jobs by the time they retire - and they are likely to move on once every seven years UK workers reckon they'll rack up a tally of seven different roles before calling it a day on their careers, with job-hopping every seven years on average, research reveals. A survey involving 2,000 employees highlighted the lure of a better salary (56%), improved work-life balance (42%) and chances for advancement (26%) as top factors for a career move. Additional causes for jumping ship include superior workplace perks (26%) and escaping unhealthy office dynamics (24%). Moreover, the appeal of a snug 9 to 5 gig is undeniable, with 95% cherishing the predictability and stability it offers. The insights suggest that 76% of respondents believe millennials and younger are more prone to switch careers frequently than their older counterparts. This generational split is underlined by 39% of the entire poll willing to consider a job change – driven by an eager 65% from Generation Z and only 32% from Generation X. Almost half of Generation Z respondents confess to job-hopping every few years in search of progress, whereas a sturdy 60% of baby boomers tend to stick it out long-term with one employer. Spanning all age brackets, 44% have had experience working in various industries during their professional life. Speaking about the findings, Alexander Allen from Funding Circle mentioned: "Our research shows that people value passion over money when pursuing a job." He went on to say, "It's been interesting to find out how perceptions compare between different generations when it comes to changing jobs or starting a completely new career. It's heartening to note that amidst the numerous job openings, organisational culture is held in high regard, with 50% of respondents considering a job switch due to unsavoury work environments or better perks." He said that although monetary rewards will always be a significant draw, flexible working schedules allowing employees to have a better work-life balance hold almost equal value. Highlighting the importance of expert guidance, the spokesperson continued, "Knowing what support small businesses need comes through years of experience, and making sure they have the right tools available to succeed is crucial." Laura Daly, a thriving small business owner from Essex, attributed the success of her bridal shop, Bellissima Weddings, to the vital assistance provided by Funding Circle. Her enterprising spirit, honed by diverse roles such as being a professional singer, dancer, and model, eventually led her to start her business alongside her husband Michael over two decades ago. Laura's early years of employment played a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for the business skills she employs today. The engaging entrepreneur shared: "When I worked in a supermarket, my task was to engage customers and promote whatever offers there were each day. I learned very quickly that if you engage people in conversation and let them tell you something about themselves first, you can sell something to them much easier than if you jump straight into a sales pitch." "In my 20s I was dancing – and I loved every minute of it. The self-discipline and ability to take personal criticism without being offended were lessons that have stuck with me for life." Thanks to Funding Circle's support, which provides small businesses with the finance they need to expand and enhance their enterprises, Laura has successfully grown her business. She explained: "I knew what we wanted, and realised it would take a huge lump of money to do what we wanted to do. We had got to the point where we desperately needed to refurbish the whole shop. I started to look at where we could borrow and I loved the minute we started looking at Funding Circle. "I said to my husband Michael if we're going to take money from anyone, it's going to be them. I never felt like I'd sold my soul to the bank. It was a completely different way of thinking and it filled me with confidence into actually taking the money." The study, carried out by OnePoll, revealed that 73% of Generation Z are open to embarking on a radically new career - but only 33% of Baby Boomers feel the same. Over a third, or 35%, of those aged between 60-78 believe their generation values stability over change, contrary to just 18% of 18 to 28 year olds. Conversely, 37% of the younger demographic see frequent job swaps as 'normal' – this is in stark contrast to a mere four percent of Boomers. The survey has uncovered that 36% of those aged between 60 and 78 believe the job market is tougher for the younger generation now than it was when they began their careers. A total of 30% of respondents attribute this to the current economic climate, particularly affecting young individuals who are keen to switch career paths. Laura offered pearls of wisdom to youthful job hunters braving the competitive job scene, urging them to "choose a career path that gives you joy or feeds a passion". She continued: "It really is true that if you do a job that you love, it will never feel like work. Scope out organisations and companies that offer upward mobility and in-house training to get you there, there's never any shame in starting at the bottom - some of the best CEO's have done just that."
Telegraph
30-04-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
How and why the UK's small businesses have thrived since the pandemic
Resilient, adaptable and optimistic – the UK's small businesses have responded to economic upheaval with verve and tenacity, new research from Funding Circle shows, with the majority anticipating further growth this year. Successfully navigating Covid five years ago has given them the tools and ability to adapt to any challenge, especially with the spectre of tariffs looming. Just ask award-winning chef and restaurateur Alexis Gauthier, who has emerged with a thriving brand five years after lockdown threatened his livelihood. As the UK battened down the hatches in 2020, his restaurant Gauthier Soho shut its doors, unable to pay its staff while they were on furlough. But with the dynamism typical among the UK's 5.5 million small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the French chef switched to offering cook-at-home boxes, selling upwards of 500 a week at one time, allowing him to keep the entire team employed. This stronger presence has allowed Gauthier, who first created a forward-thinking plant-based menu in 1997 and has been a vegan since 2016, to switch his restaurants over to entirely plant-based products and he's since opened a new London venue, Studio Gauthier. Since the pandemic, more than six in 10 (64 per cent) SMEs have made significant changes to their strategies. Nearly six in 10 (58 per cent) reported being better prepared to navigate economic headwinds thanks to their pandemic experiences. A similar number feel better equipped to handle uncertainty, while nearly half feel able to weather the higher cost of living. An overwhelming nine in 10 (92 per cent) have continued with the new way of doing business, new research released this year by Funding Circle reveals. Most transformations have become long-term pivots as online retail has boomed and old business models have grown out of date. 'Five years on from lockdown, SME Britain has fundamentally changed,' says Lisa Jacobs, chief executive at Funding Circle. 'Short-term adaptations have become permanent, creating profitable shifts while technology now plays a more integral part in SMEs' businesses. These adaptations and resilience position them well to navigate ongoing macroeconomic challenges.' Many businesses (63 per cent) have changed how they run and plan their operation with nearly half (47 per cent) saying they're more likely to adopt new technology, and nearly four in ten are confident in taking difficult business decisions. Innovation drives success What does today's business landscape look like? Some 42 per cent of changes businesses made in response to the pandemic include adopting new technologies, while just over a third (36 per cent) involve launching new products or services, and 30 per cent involve finding new customers. This nimbleness is testament to the resourcefulness of British businesses, while the long-term value of these changes has become clear, with most of the adaptations becoming permanent. 'The digital-first mindset that emerged during Covid is now a permanent feature of SME strategy, positioning them for long-term success,' says Jacobs. And new approaches have borne fruit. Former wedding cake designer Anna Tyler and her fiancé Felix Harkness have more than doubled their turnover from 2020 to 2023 and hired another 10 staff after deciding to expand Anna Cake Couture, their Bristol cake shop and café business, to take online orders. Today the couple sell luxury cookies, macarons and more nationwide, and with the help of a Funding Circle loan, they have expanded their kitchen and premises. For business owner Vik Gubskis, who owns café and wine bar 8 Rocks Deli & Wine in Loughton, Essex, switching swiftly to online-ordered home delivery at the onset of lockdown not only kept the business going but prepared it for the future. 'We have new revenue streams and have grown our team since the pandemic,' he says. 'The lessons we learned have enabled us to adapt our approach to managing finances, meaning we are now more able to plan ahead and negotiate better deals with suppliers.' A cause for optimism Despite the current economic turbulence, owners are largely bullish about growth. The research found that two-thirds (65 per cent) of small businesses expect to grow in the year ahead, while nearly half (43 per cent) are more confident about the coming year compared to the last. Technology is playing a key role in driving growth, with nearly half (47 per cent) most likely to focus on digital expansion, compared to 31 per cent looking at physical growth. In the years since the pandemic, there has been a shakedown in business finance, with nearly half of owners (48 per cent) saying their finance needs have changed. Three-quarters (74 per cent) say they now have more appetite for short-term finance and are keeping reserves aside in case of cash flow squeezes and unforeseen expenses, while six in ten (61 per cent) say they have a greater need for business loans. National reach, local impact In all, direct finance from Funding Circle last year contributed £7.2 billion to the GDP and created more than 87,000 jobs with thousands more created by indirect investment. What's more, in 2024, lending through Funding Circle supported SMEs in all 650 UK parliamentary constituencies. The total average lent per constituency was £2.1 million. 'Small businesses are the backbone of the UK economy, and we provide the fuel to power SMEs up and down the country,' says Jacobs. 'This research highlights their enduring resilience, entrepreneurialism and determination to succeed.' Funding Circle, business finance that backs you Funding Circle knows that business owners thrive with the right backing. Since 2010, the UKs leading online platform for business finance has backed more than 110,000 UK small businesses with £14.6 billion in lending – and counting.
