Q1 2017 Asset-Based Finance Index Indicates “Historically Strong” Credit Quality

October 3, 2017

Commercial Finance Association Research Suggests Business Continues to Grow

New York, October 22, 2017 – Businesses in the United States are growing, as reflected by increased borrowing during the second quarter of the year, the Commercial Finance Association announced today.  According to the Commercial Finance Association's latest Quarterly Asset-Based Lending (ABL) Index, total committed credit lines increased 5% over 1Q2017. Total Borrowings increased 3% quarter over quarter and 12% compared to the same period the prior year.

This data seems to indicate borrowers have an increased need to support expanding levels of inventory and accounts receivable, which is a positive sign for the economy.

Portfolio performance continues to improve and remains strong with nonaccruals remaining steady at 40bps as compared to last quarter. Gross write-offs were at 34 bps for the quarter down from 73 bps in the same quarter prior year and are now at historically low levels.

“The increase in overall commitments coupled with strong portfolio credit quality is good news for both the industry and the economy,” said David Grende, Chair of Commercial Finance Association's Data Subcommittee and President & CEO of Siena Lending Group.

 “Commercial Finance Association's Quarterly Asset-Based Lending Index provides our stakeholders with vital data they need to understand key marketplace trends. It also demonstrates the important role secured lending plays in the economy,” said Richard D. Gumbrecht, Commercial Finance Association CEO.

Commercial Finance Association's Quarterly Asset-Based Lending Index is conducted by Westat, an independent market research firm. Commercial Finance Association has tracked secured lending activity and published the Quarterly Asset-Based Lending Index since March 2008 to provide insight on national commercial lending trends.

Media contact:

Michele Ocejo, Director of Communications
Commercial Finance Association
mocejo@sfnet.com  212-792-9396

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