In 2024, the performance of the world’s stock exchanges has varied significantly. For example, it was a strong year for the NASDAQ, boosted by the growth of technology stocks. This increase has been largely attributed to major advancements in artificial intelligence and cloud computing, both of which took off in 2024.
However, in the UK, the situation has been more subdued for London’s FTSE. This is largely due to its higher exposure to commodity and financial stocks, which have been impacted by fluctuating global demand and geopolitical tensions. Listing activity has also been low.
However, looking to the year ahead, many anticipate much more ‘growth parity’ across exchanges as economic optimism returns to both sides of the Atlantic. However growing interest in cryptocurrencies, especially Bitcoin, given its increasing value, may cause many high-net-worth individuals to focus more of their scarce investment attention on digital currencies, as well as the traditional trading exchanges.
Either way, what remains true is that high-net-worth individuals need access to liquidity to fund property purchases, investments, new commercial ventures, and lifestyle needs. In such circumstances, many may initially consider selling some of their assets, but this invariably creates unnecessary disruption and tax implications. This makes it a less-than-ideal solution. Additionally, you risk forgoing any future potential gains in the value of your assets. Many who sold their Bitcoin holdings early have regretted that decision since it passed the $100k barrier.
Security-backed loans offer an alternative that many are yet to fully discover. They allow you to leverage your investment portfolio or other high-value securities to raise funds for immediate use. This type of lending is designed for clients who want to maintain ownership of their assets while freeing up funds. Clients often just need short-term liquidity, sometimes to capture opportunities as they arise. Alternatively, they may require substantial financing for larger opportunities, such as supporting the strategic purchase of a high-value super prime property. Either way, this form of finance can provide versatility to those with wealth tied up in securities.
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Liquidity for High Net Worth Clients
Liquidity challenges are common for individuals who have wealth tied up in investments or illiquid assets. These assets normally represent significant value, both today and in the future. However, it can cost time and effort, as well as arguably create a financial setback, to convert them to cash. Security-backed lending can overcome these challenges. It can therefore help provide liquidity for high-net-worth individuals to avoid short-term asset disposal.
For many, the appeal of this form of finance also lies in its flexibility. Borrowers don’t need to sell assets or restructure their portfolios to access funds because security-backed loans are based on the value of their securities. This approach helps you not only preserve your investments' growth potential but also gain the liquidity to act on immediate opportunities or address financial needs.
Flexible Financing Without Selling Assets
Security-backed loans offer a unique blend of liquidity and financial preservation. The process can be efficient and avoids the complexities often associated with other forms of borrowing. Lenders assess the value of your eligible securities—stocks, bonds, and other marketable assets. Then they determine the amount of financing they can make available to you.
Loan terms are typically flexible but dependent on the amount sought, and the client’s circumstances are usually bespoke. They can provide competitive interest rates, and their repayment structures are also frequently tailored for high-net-worth individuals. In return, you gain immediate liquidity once the loan process has been completed, and you continue to benefit from any appreciation or dividends by keeping your assets intact. This makes security-backed loans a popular choice for those seeking both investment stability and cash flow.
Strategic Uses of Security-Backed Loans
The versatility of these loans is another advantage. They can be used to fund diverse financial goals. Opportunities range from business ventures to luxury purchases or bridging cash flow gaps. In our experience, entrepreneurs turn to security-backed loans to fund new projects so they don’t have to pull equity from their companies or sell shares.
Investors may also leverage these loans to explore new opportunities. For instance, you could use the liquidity to invest in promising markets, purchase real estate, or meet other financial obligations. Security-backed loans give you access to the necessary funds without the stress of asset liquidation and without disrupting your existing portfolios.
Preserving Wealth While Accessing Funds
Preserving long-term wealth is paramount for high-net-worth individuals. Security-backed loans allow you to maintain ownership of your assets, rather than disposing of them to raise funds, helping support your future financial security. Traditional loans from mainstream banks may require detailed financial disclosures or extensive approval processes. These loans, on the other hand, offer tailored solutions based on your portfolio's current value.
Additionally, lenders often structure repayment terms to align with your financial situation. This provides even more flexibility. Do you need liquidity for just a few months? Or are you looking for a longer-term arrangement? This financing model supports your goals without disrupting your overall wealth strategy.
Navigating International Opportunities
Security-backed loans are especially useful for clients with global assets or interests. These loans can provide liquidity for high-net-worth individuals to pursue international opportunities like real estate investments or cross-border business ventures. When you have the right guidance, you can access funds efficiently and position yourself to act on opportunities worldwide.
International financing requires working with a team of professionals with expertise in high-value finance. They can ensure that the process is smooth and tailored to your unique requirements and, given the complexity of deals in this space, help avoid delays or challenges that those without experience may face.
Tailored Solutions for High-Net-Worth Clients
In recent years security-backed lending has grown in popularity but is arguably still a niche offering for many institutions. As a result, navigating this market can be time-consuming and challenging, especially as many providers aren’t easily findable. The best results generally come from partnering with a broker who understands the unique needs of high-net-worth individuals and has access to the entire market.
Brokers with experience in security-backed loans can simplify the process, but also retrieve the best terms based on your specific needs and circumstances. Their expertise can often result in clients being able to access funds more quickly and without unnecessary complications. They’ll assess your assets, identify the best lending options, and guide you through every step of the loan process.
At Enness Global we have been assisting with security-backed lending services for many years and pride ourselves on securing the most favourable terms for our clients. As well as offering a hyper-personalised service with discretion, we have access to competitive interest rates and repayment schedules that can be aligned with your circumstances and financial plans. We’ll also ensure that your loan is structured to maximise liquidity and support your long-term wealth goals.
Speak to one of our brokers who has experience in international finance for high-net-worth individuals, business owners, and companies today.
Our Services: Security-Backed Lending & Crypto Finance
The views and opinions expressed in this piece are those of the author and do not constitute advice or a recommendation. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Enness and are not intended to indicate any market or industry viewpoints, or those of other industry professionals