Market Overview
The Fed cut rates twice in recent months, first by 0.50% in September, then by 0.25% on October 29th to 3.75%-4.00%, but Chair Powell signaled that December's cut "isn't a foregone conclusion," creating uncertainty. Small business confidence dipped for the first time in three months to 98.8 in September, though still above the historical average, while the uncertainty index surged to 100, the fourth-highest reading in 51 years. Despite headwinds, businesses remain resilient with average monthly earnings at $105,100.
The Numbers
Current Rates (November 2025)
Federal Funds Rate: 3.75% - 4.00% (cut 0.25% on Oct 29, 2025)
Prime Rate: 7.5%
Credit Card Stacking: 16.5% - 29.7%
Conventional Term Loans: 6.7% - 11.5%
SBA 7(a) Loans: 10.25% - 15.25%
SBA 504 Loans: ~5.98% - 7.68% (varies by term)
Alternative Lenders: 12% - 30%+
Typical Credit Requirements
Credit Card Stacking: 680+ (700+ for best limits $50K-150K)
Conventional Loans: 700+ required (720+ preferred)
SBA 7(a): 650+ minimum (680+ for better rates)
SBA 504: 660+ typical
Alternative Lenders: 600+ (higher rates below 650)
Processing Times (Current Averages)
Credit Card Stacking: 48-72 hours
Alternative Lenders: 2-4 days
Conventional Term Loans: 14-30 days
SBA 504: ~18 days median
SBA 7(a): 23-45 days (straightforward to complex deals)
Quick Tips
Tactical tip: Highlight industry trends when submitting lender packages. Healthcare and construction are outperforming other sectors in lending approvals.
Heads up: SBA and traditional loan processing are taking longer this fall; prep documents early to avoid delays.
Opportunity: Alternative lender approvals remain highest; consider non-bank options for faster funding, especially in tight credit environments.
Ready to help clients grow their business by finding the funding of their dreams?
Watch how you can help clients fund their business & their dreams by joining the Funding Machine community
The Funding Report Newsletter
Sources:
Biz2Credit Lending Index
FOMC Statements (Sept 18th & Oct 29th)
Fed Reserve Interest Rates
Bankrate, NerdWallet
SBA Processing
SBA Industry Lending