We are hosting the LSB’s inaugural Business Emerging Risk Forum online on Wednesday 23 March between 2pm and 3pm. We are keen to hear a wide range of views from firms within business banking, from those with relationship management responsibility to those in credit, risk, or compliance.
The Forum is an opportunity to meet and learn from colleagues across the industry in a Chatham House rules environment. Below is a summary of the topics we will cover on the day. If you are interested in attending, please check availability by contacting us at insight@lstdb.org.uk
Covid support loans – collections & fraud
We are interested in understanding firms’ experiences of collecting on the Government support loans provided during the pandemic. Are customers in a position to repay, how are those interactions going, and are there any concerns or risks in this area that require further discussion? We are also interested in whether firms have identified instances of fraud within this segment of loans and how are they treating suspected cases.
Cost of living crisis
Are firms taking any proactive steps or action in relation to the cost of living crisis and what this may mean for business customers? For example, are rising energy costs impacting customers to the extent that action is needed to prevent difficulties or other challenges?
Alternative sources of lending
Alternative and primarily digital lenders are increasingly tailoring their consumer products to SME needs. Do firms see any risks posed by alternative and new sources of finance or areas where additional focus/regulation is needed?
Personal guarantee recovery sequencing
At what point are firms taking steps to collect against personal guarantees and what is the process for doing so? Do firms always seek to realise business assets before considering personal assets?
