In the latest episode of Finance Specialist, hosts Liam Garman and Trent Carter take a closer look at what the latest rate rise – and the likelihood of more to come – means for brokers and their SME clients.

With inflation still sticky across housing and energy, the discussion moves beyond the headline 25 basis point increase to the broader pressures building in the system. Carter explains how higher rates are compounding existing cost pressures for small businesses, from wages and rents to insurance and input costs, and why many owners are shifting from growth mode to capital preservation.

The episode also explores the changing nature of SME borrowing. Rather than funding expansion, more businesses are using finance defensively: refinancing, smoothing cash flow, or taking short-term facilities to manage stock and tax obligations.

Garman and Carter then discuss the growing role of non-bank and fintech lenders within that mix, arguing that brokers who focus on solutions, build industry expertise and position themselves as a steady hand during volatility will be better placed to support clients through the current cycle.