Business loans interest rate - What is the interest rate on business loans?

Different types of interest

Fixed interest

Fixed rate, or tied rate, on business loans remains unchanged during the loan period - regardless of market fluctuations, you keep the same interest rate, making your financial planning more predictable.

Advantages: It offers a sense of security and simplicity in budgeting, as you know exactly how much you will pay each month.

Disadvantages: If the market interest rate drops, you miss the opportunity to pay less. In addition, sometimes the fixed rate can be higher from the start compared to the variable rate.

Variable interest rate

Variable interest rates on business loans change with the market, which can result in both lower and higher payments over the loan period, depending on market fluctuations.

Impact on payments: This means that your monthly costs can vary, which can be an advantage when interest rates fall. On the other hand, when interest rates rise, your costs also increase, which of course can affect your operating cash flow.

Amortization and interest

Amortization is about how you repay the loan - either with equal repayment (equal amount each time) or annuity (same total amount including interest with each payment).

Equal repayment or annuity - which is right for you? Equal repayment may suit businesses that prefer a reduction in debt over time, while annuity suits those who want an equal total cost. The choice between these depends on your business cash flow and how you want to manage your payments.

Loan with interest rate cap

Are you looking for an option that mixes a bit of fixed and variable? Then it may be advantageous for your business to consider an interest rate cap loan - this means that you, together with the bank or lender, set a maximum interest rate for your variable rate. So that your interest rate will never exceed a certain limit, which can make it easier for you if you want to plan your variable rate expenses more effectively.

Effective and nominal interest rates - what's the difference?

Related to understanding what interest rates on business loans are, it is equally important to understand the difference between effective and nominal interest rates, as they offer different perspectives on the cost of your business loan.

Nominal interest rate is the base rate for your loan, not including any additional fees or charges. It represents the basic cost of the loan and is expressed as an annual percentage rate.

Effective interest, on the other hand, offers a more complete picture. It includes not only the nominal interest rate, but also all additional costs associated with the loan - such as start-up costs, administrative fees and other administrative fees. Effective interest is calculated on an annual basis and provides a more accurate picture of the total cost of the loan.

For small business owners, it is important to look at both nominal and effective interest rates when considering a business loan. While the nominal interest rate can give an initial impression of the loan cost, it is the effective interest rate that really shows what you will actually pay.

Average interest rates on business loans

In general, the average annual interest rate is between 4-9%. Larger banks can offer lower interest rates, thanks to lower borrowing costs, for example, between 4-6%. Digital banks and new lenders typically have interest rates starting around 5-8% annually.

In addition, as a small business owner, you need to think about the monthly fees that come with a business loan. These can range between 1-4% per month, representing an annual interest rate of between 12-48%. It is important to remember that these figures may be lower in practice, as many business loans are repaid early. Comparing interest rates is crucial to get an overview of the best options on the market, as interest rates can vary significantly. So remember to carefully evaluate all your options before deciding which loan is the best fit for your business.

What factors affect your business loan interest rate?

Creditworthiness

Your credit rating acts as an assessment of your financial reliability. What are your company's revenues and turnover? Are there any arrears, or debts with the National Bank of Belgium? A higher credit rating can lead to lower interest rates because it means lower risk for the lender.

Improvement Tips: To improve your credit rating, make sure you pay bills on time, reduce debt and avoid frequent credit checks.

Loan amount and term

Larger loan amounts and longer maturities can often carry higher interest rates because of the increased risk to the lender.

Find the right balance: Choose a loan amount and term that fit your company's needs and ability to pay. A well-balanced strategy minimizes your costs while meeting your capital needs.

Security and personal deposit

Offering collateral, such as real estate or inventory, can lower your interest rate because it reduces the lender's risk. A personal guarantor also increases your chances of lower interest rates.

Alternatives to limited collateral: If your business does not have sufficient collateral, consider improving other factors such as creditworthiness, or find alternative forms of financing that do not require traditional collateral.

Tips to get favorable interest rates on business loans

Securing an attractive interest rate on your business loan can be crucial to the success of your business. Here are some tips to make this work to your advantage:

Compare your offers

Use online tools and comparison sites to compare interest rates. These platforms provide an overview of the different options on the market and help you make an informed decision.

Build a strong business plan

A compelling business plan can be your best friend at the negotiating table. It shows lenders that you have a solid plan to grow and manage the loan effectively. Lenders usually look for clarity, realism, and potential in your business plan - they want to see a thoughtful strategy, realistic financial projections, and a clear understanding of the market.

Apply for a loan from Qeld

For a business loan with lower fees, choose Qeld! The only cost for your loan with Qeld is a fixed monthly fee, which is determined based on the size of the loan and the creditworthiness of the business. Qeld offers business loans from €1,000 to as much as €500,000, which can help you invest in new equipment, increase your marketing or expand your business. We have no hidden fees or binding time on your loan - with a simple one-minute application process, you can access capital quickly and easily. If everything looks good, you can even get the money in your account the same day!

Sure to get the right interest rate for your business loan

With practical tips and the right information, you'll be ready to find the best loan for your business. By creating a strong business plan, navigating between fixed or variable interest rates, and improving your company's creditworthiness, you can now make more informed decisions that benefit the financial health and growth of your business. Moving forward, with this knowledge in your baggage, you will be better equipped to navigate the world of business lending and give your business the best opportunity for success. Good luck in business!

Questions and answers about interest on business loan

Which bank is best for business loan?

The best bank for business loan varies depending on your company's needs and financial situation. Therefore, it is important to compare different banks and their offers to find the most advantageous solution for your business.

How much does a business loan cost?

The cost of a business loan depends on factors such as the loan amount, interest rate, term and any additional fees. Average interest rates typically range between 4-8.85% per year, depending on the lender.

Which bank offers the best interest rates on loans?

The bank with the best interest rates on loans can vary depending on market conditions and the specific situation of your business. It is therefore important to make a thorough comparison of the interest rates and terms of different banks.

How does a business loan work?‍

A business loan works by borrowing an amount of money from a bank or lender, which must then be repaid with interest over an agreed period of time. The loan can be used for various business-related purposes, such as expansion, investment or to improve cash flow during a difficult period.