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diverse-pricing-models-for-working-capital-finance
May 13, 2022
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10
min read
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Written by: 
Nikolaus Hilgenfeldt
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Category:
Finance

Exploring Diverse Pricing Models for Working Capital Finance: A Guide to Informed Research

As an ecommerce entrepreneur, finding the perfect finance provider for your online business can be quite daunting. 

However, as an online retailer, you often need extra funds to prevent stock shortages, expand your product line, or give your advertising campaigns a significant boost. 

The good news is that many companies are offering potential solutions to meet your financial needs.

Our guide offers a complete breakdown of pricing models in ecommerce financing, providing you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

We aim to clarify the importance of working capital and its pricing structures by exploring the intricate details of the available options.

Let's dive in and closely examine the various pricing models used for working capital finance!

I Overview of Working Capital Finance

To truly understand the potential of diverse pricing models for working capital finance, it is imperative to lay a strong foundation by starting with the basics

So, let's take a moment to delve into the most crucial aspects you need to know about working capital finance.

1. Working Capital Significance for Businesses

Working capital constitutes a pivotal and indispensable concept for businesses, holding substantial sway over their financial well-being and day-to-day activities

It represents the difference between a company's current assets and liabilities, indicating the financial resources available to meet short-term obligations and maintain uninterrupted operational continuity.

working-capital

2. Role of Working Capital Finance in Funding Day-to-Day Operations

Let’s explore the essential roles of working capital finance in funding day-to-day operations:

💼Managing Short-term Obligations — Working capital finance ensures prompt payment of suppliers, employees, and bills, avoiding disruptions caused by insufficient cash flow for short-term commitments.

📦 Inventory Management — Optimizes inventory levels by providing funds for maintaining an appropriate stock, preventing excessive tying up of company resources.

💧 Cash Flow Smoothing — Bridges cash flow gaps during irregular payment cycles, ensuring steady funds to cover daily expenses, especially during lean periods.

🚀 Opportunity for Growth — Allows businesses to seize growth opportunities, such as discounted inventory purchases or market expansion, without interruptions.

🆘 Emergency Funds — Acts as an emergency fund, safeguarding businesses against unexpected expenses or economic downturns.

💳 Dealing with Credit Terms — Helps businesses manage delayed cash inflows resulting from credit sales, ensuring smooth operations despite deferred payments.

💵 Supporting Accounts Receivable — Provides necessary funds until customers settle outstanding invoices.

3. Key Factors Influencing Working Capital Requirements

Several key factors influence a company's working capital requirements. Here are some of the most significant factors:

1. Industry and Business Cycle

Different industries have varying working capital requirements

For example, businesses in the retail sector may require higher working capital due to their need for large inventories, while service-oriented businesses may have lower working capital needs.

four-phases-of-an-economic-cycle

2. Seasonality

Seasonal businesses experience fluctuations in demand and revenue throughout the year

They may need more working capital during peak seasons to finance increased inventories and other operational needs.

seasonality-example

3. Sales and Revenue Growth

Rapidly growing companies may require additional working capital to finance increased production, sales, and operational expenses.

growth-rate-formula

4. Inventory Management

The efficiency of inventory management plays a critical role in determining working capital needs. 

Companies with effective inventory control systems can reduce the amount of capital tied up in stock.

inventory-management

5. Accounts Receivable and Payable Management

The time it takes for a company to collect payments from customers (accounts receivable) and the time it takes to pay suppliers (accounts payable) impact working capital requirements. Lengthy accounts receivable collection periods can increase the need for working capital.

accounting-process

6. Cash Flow Cycle

The length of time between cash outflows and inflows can significantly affect working capital. 

If a company has a long cash flow cycle (e.g., slow-paying customers and high upfront expenses), it will need more working capital to bridge the gap.

cash-conversion-cycle

7. Credit Policies

The credit terms offered to customers influence accounts receivable and, in turn, working capital needs. 

More lenient credit policies may lead to higher working capital requirements.

credit-policy-meaning

8. Supplier Relationships

The credit terms obtained from suppliers affect the company's accounts payable and can impact working capital. 

Longer credit terms from suppliers can reduce the immediate need for working capital.

customer-supplier-relationship

9. Operating Efficiency

Efficient utilization of resources, production processes, and cost control can positively impact working capital needs.

operating-efficiency-formula

10. Debt and Equity Structure

The proportion of debt and equity financing used by a company affects its interest expenses and dividend payments, both of which can impact working capital availability.

debt-and-equity-structure

11. Economic Conditions

Overall economic conditions can influence a company's sales, expenses, and cash flow, directly affecting its working capital requirements.

economic-cycle

12. Government Regulations

Industry-specific regulations and government policies can impact the working capital needs of a company.

government-regulations

Let's now go over the various working capital financing pricing models that are used today.

II Traditional Pricing Models for Working Capital Finance

Traditional working capital finance pricing models are the tried-and-true methods used to determine how much businesses need to finance their working capital needs. 

These models stick to more conventional financial metrics and historical data to set working capital interest rates and loan terms. 

They often consider the weighted average cost of capital (WACC), short-term and long-term debt costs, and what companies expect to earn from their equity

Here are some well-known types of traditional pricing models:

1. Fixed Interest Rate Models

Fixed interest rate models are financial models used to determine the cost of working capital when the interest rate is fixed for a specific period.

The primary purpose of such models is to estimate the total interest expense that a company will incur over a specific period when borrowing money at a fixed interest rate.

fixed-interest-rate-models-example

In this example, the company employs a Fixed Interest Rate Model for loans, offering borrowers a steady and unchanging interest rate throughout the loan term

This model ensures predictable monthly installments, making it ideal for borrowers seeking stability and avoiding interest rate fluctuations over time.

2. Collateral-Based Pricing Models

Collateral-based pricing models for working capital finance involve securing the loan with valuable assets, such as property or equipment. 

The interest rate is typically lower as the lender has the assurance of collateral, reducing the risk. 

However, defaulting on the loan could lead to the loss of the pledged assets.

collateral-based-pricing-model

In this example, the company utilizes a Collateral-Based Pricing Model for loans, determining interest rates based on the value of the collateral provided by borrowers. 

The model offers a dynamic interest rate adjustment for varying collateral values, providing greater security for the lender and potentially granting more favorable rates to borrowers with higher-value collateral.

3. Variable Interest Rate Models

Variable interest rate models in working capital finance have interest rates that fluctuate based on prevailing market conditions. 

While they may start with a lower rate, borrowers face uncertainty as the rates can increase, potentially raising the overall borrowing cost. 

It is suitable for businesses anticipating falling interest rates in the market.

variable-interest-rate-models-example

In this example, the company employs a Variable Interest Rate Model for loans, featuring an initial fixed rate and a flexible variable rate that adjusts periodically.

Borrowers benefit from a combination of fixed and adjustable rates, offering adaptability to changing market conditions and economic environments.

4. Credit Score-Based Pricing Models

Credit score-based pricing models assess the borrower's creditworthiness to determine the interest rate

If a business has a higher credit score, it has a better chance of getting a loan at a lower interest rate. 

On the other hand, due to perceived credit risks, companies with lower credit scores might be required to pay higher interest rates.

Maintaining a strong credit profile is crucial for obtaining favorable loan terms.

credit-score-based-pricing-model-example

In this example, the company utilizes a Credit Score-Based Pricing Model to determine interest rates for customer loans or credit lines.

By evaluating individual credit scores, the company offers more competitive rates to customers with higher credit scores while also managing risk for those with lower credit scores.

III Innovative Pricing Models in Working Capital Finance

Some exciting and creative pricing models in working capital finance leverage modern technology and smart strategies to optimize business funding solutions. 

These innovative pricing models aim to make managing day-to-day cash flow needs easier, more transparent, and more efficient for businesses. 

As fintech keeps evolving, we expect more imaginative pricing models to emerge to cater to different financing needs. 

Let's take a look at some innovative pricing model examples:

1. Dynamic Discounting

A dynamic discount pricing model is a pricing strategy where discounts or pricing tiers change based on various factors, such as quantity purchased, time of purchase, customer segment, or any other relevant variables.

This model often encourages larger purchases, rewards loyal customers, or drives sales during specific periods. 

dynamic-discounting-example

In this example, the more units a customer purchases, the higher the discount they receive on each unit. 

This encourages customers to buy in larger quantities, increasing overall sales and customer loyalty.

2. Supply Chain Finance Programs

Supply chain finance programs provide a collaborative financing solution between buyers, suppliers, and financial institutions.

It allows suppliers to receive early payments for their invoices while buyers can extend their payment terms.

This program enhances working capital efficiency for both parties and strengthens the overall supply chain.

supply-chain-finance-program-example

In this example, a company participates in a supply chain finance program, enabling its suppliers to receive early payments in exchange for offering discounts. 

The program involves various financing providers (Bank A, Financial Company, and Fintech Firm) to facilitate early payments and improve cash flow for both the company and its suppliers.

3. Pay-As-You-Go Models

Pay-as-you-go models offer a flexible payment option where customers only pay for the services or products they use.

It is particularly common in subscription-based businesses or utility services, allowing customers to manage their cash flow and working capital more effectively.

pay-as-you-go-models-example

In this example, a company adopts a Pay-As-You-Go Model, where costs are determined by actual usage. 

The total monthly expense amounts to $695, accounting for various services like cloud storage, software licenses, internet data, and phone calls.

4. Revenue-Sharing Arrangements

Revenue-sharing arrangements involve a partnership between two parties where profits or revenues are shared based on pre-agreed terms.

This model is often used in joint ventures or collaborations, helping businesses mitigate financial risks and manage working capital by distributing costs and benefits.

revenue-sharing-arrangement-example

In this example, a company collaborates with partners through a revenue-sharing arrangement for four products/services, generating a total monthly revenue of $145,000. 

The partners receive their agreed-upon percentages of the revenue for each product/service, fostering transparency and cooperation in distributing earnings.

III Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Pricing Model

Traditional and innovative working capital pricing models take different approaches when assessing the cost of financing and the factors considered in the calculation.

Traditional models have been around for a long time and are pretty straightforward. 

They rely on well-established financial metrics and don't use advanced techniques or data analysis.

In contrast, innovative models use modern technology and sophisticated data analysis to provide a more comprehensive and dynamic view of working capital financing costs.

While traditional models are more straightforward and use historical data, innovative models leverage advanced technologies and real-time data analysis for a more customized and nuanced approach. 

Businesses can choose the model that best fits their needs based on their risk tolerance, data availability, and analytical capabilities.

Here's a comparison of the two:

advantages-and-disadvantages-of-each-pricing-model

IV The Difference Between Monthly Interest and Fees

As you browse financing websites, you will often see prices displayed as a percentage, either per month or as a one-time fee. It is important to pay close attention to the terms "interest" and "fee" when comparing offers, as they have different implications. 

Make sure to understand the differences between them.

While interest is calculated on the respective outstanding credit volume at a given time, fees are based on the total initial credit amount.

So what does that mean for you as an online seller looking to increase liquidity? 

The following table illustrates how a hypothetical price of 1% per month can lead to two very different outcomes within these models:

difference-between-monthly-interest-and-fees

Let's further explore these differences.

Differences Between Interest and Fee Model — Myos Example Of a 6-Month Loan

Did you notice how in the interest model, your effective monthly payment actually decreases with the duration of the project?

As you repay the loan, the interest calculation base decreases, leading to reduced interest payments (assuming linear repayment). 

This model is commonly used for lines of credit, such as from your house bank.

However, asset-based financiers like Myos have recently enhanced this model with flexible repayments

For instance, if you decide to repay the total loan after just one month, you'll only pay interest for that specific period.

myos-example-of-a-financing-process

On the other hand, the fee model - offered mainly by fine traders and revenue-based financers - continuously calculates the monthly or one-time fee based on the total initial credit amount, resulting in a fixed fee stable over time. 

Therefore, if you discover that a company offers prices starting at 0.7% per month using a fixed fee on the total amount, be aware that this is equivalent to ~1.2% effective monthly interest!

effective-monthly-interest

The same applies to the one-time fixed fee model for most revenue-based loans.

If you pay a one-time fee of 6% and repay the loan over 6 months, your actual effective monthly interest is ~1.69% (or 20.29% annually!)

effective-monthly-interest-revenue-based

One significant drawback with fine traders is the requirement to initiate loan repayments from the very first month. 

This means that while your ordered goods are likely still in transit and not monetized yet, you must start making payments. 

Moreover, fine traders typically provide you with a lesser loan amount for the entire term due to the early repayment obligation. 

This could result in an effective interest rate of at least 15-20% per annum when calculated annually.

effective-monthly-interest-fine-trades

Furthermore, the repayment process continues relentlessly, obliging you to pay back strictly every month. 

Essentially, this means you have access to the full loan amount for only half the time, or you receive only half the loan amount for the full term

To provide a clearer picture, the following information table illustrates the diverse pricing approaches using a simple example.

Illustrative Cost Breakdown: Key Pricing Models in the Working Capital Finance Market

key-pricing-models-myos

Evaluating and Selecting Pricing Models for Working Capital Finance

Picking the perfect pricing model for your working capital finance is an absolute game-changer for your business! 

The information you got here will help you understand working capital, which factors it involves, and your options for various pricing models.

When you add to it understanding the differences between interest and fee pricing models, you are empowered to navigate potential offers effectively. 

To make an informed decision, it is crucial that we take into account several best practices (that, honestly, have become obvious by now):

✅ Conduct a thorough research and analyze available options

✅ Seek expert advice

✅ Negotiate favorable terms with lenders

While fine traders and revenue-based financiers usually follow a fee-based model, asset-based financiers opt for an interest-based approach, making it the ideal choice for strategic growth and success in your ecommerce venture.

So, why not start with Myos? 

What Does Myos Offer?

Myos is an asset based company, offering tailored solutions to empower sellers in achieving their business goals. 

With our support, you can confidently expand your product inventory, launch exciting new offerings, and invest in effective marketing strategies to enhance your sales and maximize profits.

Here are the advantages of working with Myos:

🏢 Loan Amount Flexibility — Borrow anywhere between £100,000 to £2,500,000 for your business needs.

🤖 AI-Driven Insights — Our advanced artificial intelligence analyzes your product data, empowering you with valuable insights.

📈 Tailored Interest Rates — Benefit from monthly interest rates tailored to match your specific borrowed amount.

🌱 Startup-Friendly — We support businesses as young as two months old, fostering growth from the early stages.

💰 No Turnover Threshold — No minimum monthly turnover requirement, ensuring accessibility for businesses of all sizes.

Time-Limited Funding — Funding period limited to a maximum of 24 months, allowing for strategic planning.

💻 Hassle-Free Application — Our simple online application process ensures quick and easy funding within 72 hours.

🔒 Transparent and Secure — Enjoy peace of mind with no personal guarantees or hidden fees.

🔍 Free Eligibility Assessment — Get started with a complimentary funding eligibility assessment, tailored to your needs.

Application Conditions for Myos Funding?

To apply for our funding, please ensure that your company meets the following conditions:

✔️ Registered Office — Your company must have a registered office located in Germany, Austria, Cyprus, or the United Kingdom (UK), and should not be a shell or shelf company.

✔️ Minimum Business Duration — Your company should have been in business for a minimum of 6 months.

✔️ E-commerce Presence — Your products should have a track record of being sold in e-commerce for at least 50 days, on platforms like Amazon, eBay, online shops, etc.

Ready to take the first step towards financial growth with Myos?

Calculate your monthly interest directly on our website to discover the comprehensive benefits we offer. 

For a personalized, non-binding free offer tailored to your unique needs, reach out to us today. Our team is eager to support you on your growth journey. 💼

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