A sound manufacturer asks for a seven-year loan, interest-only for the first five, to buy equipment that will last five years.
THE IN-TRAY · CHAPTER 7 OF HOW BANKERS THINK
6 files on The Walk-Away Framework
The question this chapter answers: How does a banker reach a no they can defend, rather than declining on discomfort or proceeding on momentum?
Make a call on any file and every option opens with how far it sits from the senior banker’s read. There is no score.
A strong property developer, ten years with the bank, asks for a new project loan. The bank's property book is at its internal limit this quarter, and the regional market is turning.
Your move?
During negotiation a borrower's owner twice reopens agreed terms at the last minute and goes over your head to your manager. The credit itself is strong.
Your move?
A well-run mining services company wants a US$60m facility. Your bank's limit for one borrower is US$25m and it has no mining specialists. The broker mentions that three banks have looked already.
Your move?
It is Thursday. A borrower needs an answer by Friday or will go elsewhere. Your notes say 'cash flow unclear'. Your manager says, 'We can't lose this one.'
What do you do?
A fast-growing borrower now needs export finance, currency hedging and a syndicated loan. You are a relationship manager at a regional bank that does none of them well.
What is the honest question?
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