What is SCF? Definition, 6-Step Process, and its Benefits

In 2015, McKinsey reported that supply chain finance (SCF) is a growing market. The consulting firm states that the financial practice has a potential global revenue of $20 billion.

Moving ahead six years later, the evidence of that growth is still present. Allied Market Research valued the SCF market at $6 billion in 2021. They even predict that it will reach $13.4 billion within this decade.

Many businesses have grown to accept this financial service which drove supply chain financing’s growth. Despite hiccups in 2020, the demand for SCF grew as companies preferred it for their supply chain security.

So, what is a supply chain finance?

In simple terms, supply chain financing eases suppliers to receive funding. A third party does the backing on your behalf.

If you want to know more about supply chain financing, continue reading this article. We will explain SCF in detail and its importance for your business performance. You will also understand ways to implement SCF successfully.

Definition of SCF

Supply chain finance (SCF) is a strategy that helps companies cut costs. SCF improves efficiency for everyone involved in a transaction — minimizing supply chain disruptions.

Think of it as a win-win solution.

With the buyer’s approval, suppliers receive early payment via a financier. Funding could be from a bank or other financial institution. This strategy provides short-term credit that boosts working capital and liquidity for all.

Supply chain finance is different from other types of financing. We compare it with a traditional bank loan and factoring.

Unlike a bank loan, supply chain financing bases its credit score on the supply chain. Banks only base the credit score on the borrower.

Suppliers, buyers, and financiers collaborate to optimize the supply chain’s financial performance. Compared to a loan, there is a shared risk for all parties. In a traditional loan, the transaction is between the borrower and the bank.

Let us move on to its differences with factoring. Factoring is selling accounts receivables to a factor for cash at a discount. Factoring can improve a company’s short-term cash needs.

Factoring sells accounts receivable, while SCF finances transactions between buyers and suppliers. Factoring suits businesses with weaker credit as the factor assumes the risk. Factoring does not require an ongoing relationship between a company and its suppliers.

Supply chain financing in 6 steps

All supply chain financing programs are different. However, its platform and external financiers are involved. The process flow typically involves the following six steps:

• Purchase order: The buyer initiates an order with the supplier for the goods and services.

• Order fulfillment: The supplier makes delivery per the purchase order. The supplier also invoices the buyer.

• Invoice approval: The buyer reviews and approves the invoice. They then send it to the financier for processing.

• Supplier sells: The supplier “sells” the invoice to the financier, who pays the supplier a discounted value of the invoice amount.

• Supplier receives funds: The supplier gets the discounted value of the invoice from the financier. This markdown helps them manage their cash flow and working capital.

• Buyer pays intermediary: On the invoice’s due date, the buyer pays the full invoice amount to the financier instead of the supplier, thereby settling the obligation.

Different types of supply chain financing

There are various types of supply chain finance that you need to know about. Each technique provides services that cater to different markets. We have compiled five of them for you.

Reverse factoring

We mentioned earlier that SCF differs from factoring. However, when you reverse it, the company arranges a financial institution to pay suppliers earlier.

The financial institution pays the company on the due date of the invoices. Reverse factoring allows the business to extend payment terms so suppliers can get paid earlier.

This method allows companies to use their good credit rating to help their suppliers improve their cash flow.

Dynamic discounting

This financing strategy is when you offer suppliers an early payment for a discount on their invoices. The “dynamic” in dynamic discounting refers to the flexibility to adjust rates on payment dates to suppliers.

The company bases the markdown on the time value of money and the supplier’s cost of capital. The earlier the supplier accepts payment, the higher the discount they receive.

Dynamic discounting helps companies improve cash flow by paying suppliers earlier and decreasing the amount of money owed to suppliers.

Inventory financing

This type of financing allows a company to use its inventory as collateral. The lender evaluates the estimated sales value of your inventory and offers a loan amount based on that assessment. The interest rate may also depend on your credit score.

They will hold your inventory and return it once you make full payment. However, if you fail to meet your obligations, the lender will sell your merchandise to recover funds.

Trade credit insurance (TCI)

TCI is a method that helps protect businesses from non-payment. This method is not a traditional form of supply chain financing. However, it does play an essential role in mitigating the risks involved.

When you get non-payment protection, you can offer better terms to suppliers. Your capital and cash flow are more stabilized. TCI can also help you secure better financing terms from banks. Your credit score will increase as there is confidence in the payment of accounts receivable.

Purchase order financing

This financing method provides funding to pay suppliers to fulfill customer orders. PO financing is helpful for small businesses that do not have enough inventory or cash to fulfill orders.

A lender provides funding based on a purchase order value. The business uses this to pay its suppliers. The customer pays the company directly upon order fulfillment to repay the lender.

Benefits of supply chain financing

Supply chain finance offers various gains to those involved. Below are some benefits for the buyers, suppliers, and financiers.

For the buyers

• Better cash flow management: Supply chain financing enables buyers to take advantage of extended payment periods. This extension enhances their ability to improve their cash conversion cycle.

• Less supply chain disruptions: Buyers can reduce risks in the supply chain as there is more visibility and control. You can better monitor your supplier’s financial health more closely. You can proactively identify potential issues early for mitigation.

• Better overall relationship: By aiding your supplier’s working capital, you can build a better relationship with them.

Read more: What is SRM? Definition, Benefits, & 3 Implementation Steps

For the suppliers

• Faster payment: Suppliers receive faster payments under supply chain financing. This cash enables suppliers to access quick cash and improve their cash flow.

• Lower-cost funding: The costs involved in an SCF are typically lower than other funding sources, such as factoring. The credit score of the buyer forms the basis of supply chain finance. This financing scheme enables suppliers to save more money.

• Better forecasting: With increased certainty for payments, suppliers enhance their ability to forecast cash flow. They can make better-informed business decisions.

Read more: What is a Supplier? Their role & 6 criteria to look out for

For the financiers

• Lower risk: The financier bases financing on the buyer’s credit rating, which can reduce the risk of default. Supply chain financing also makes the investment more appealing to risk-averse financiers seeking a stable return on their investment.

• Portfolio diversification: These finance programs offer backers the chance to invest in diverse industries.

• Predictable cash flow: The parties involved typically make payments regularly in supply chain finance. Financiers can plan investments better as a result of this.

Why are some businesses still hesitant about SCF?

While there are some benefits that supply chain finance provides, some businesses are hesitant to implement it. Here are some reasons why.

Complexity

Supply chain finance can be challenging to employ. It can be tough to implement without an understanding of how it works.

SCF involves tech-based processes that not all organizations are ready for. They must invest in technology platforms to handle transaction volumes and provide real-time data visibility.

Both suppliers and buyers must undergo an onboarding process to understand the processes. Training can take time and delay implementation.

Limited access

Not many companies have the option to participate in supply chain financing. Top-tier suppliers with significant transactions and established credit histories can access SCF programs.

Companies with poor credit scores may not qualify for supply chain financing. Financial institutions might consider them high-risk borrowers.

Smaller-sized organizations may face challenges due to their resources. They might not meet the requirements set by banks and other financiers. Some now offer programs for smaller suppliers.

Strained supplier relationship

Buyers may worry that requesting extended payment terms through SCF could affect their ties with suppliers. Supply chain finance involves third-party involvement, and suppliers may feel pressured to accept the rates given. Such situations can create tensions in the buyer-supplier relationship.

Buyers could also exploit the program to make late payments. This action can harm the supplier’s cash flow and ability to operate effectively. Buyers that abuse supply chain financing can undermine the supplier’s trust.

Industry-specific restrictions

Legal or governing restrictions can limit some industries from engaging in supply chain financing. Certain countries may limit SCF program availability due to financial instrument usage restrictions.

Legal or contract-related issues may need to be addressed, even if an industry permits supply chain financing. Contract limitations can affect SCF program feasibility, such as not allowing receivables sale or limiting payment terms.

Supply chain finance best practices

Businesses realize the significance of managing working capital in tough times and seek ways to free up trapped cash within the financial supply chain. Supply chain finance has become the most preferred choice for improved cash flow. Companies must consider the following factors to benefit from supply chain financing.

Choose the right financier

Different financial institutions may have different types of supply chain finance programs. Identifying and researching which financial providers best suit your business requirements is vital. Consider the financing type, fees, reputation, and transaction volume handling ability.

Choosing the wrong financier can cause SCF to fail. When your backer does not align with your business goals, it can lead to inefficient processes and unnecessary costs.

Involve the right stakeholders

Everyone in your company should work closely together to ensure a successful financing. These key stakeholders may include internal departments such as procurement, accounting, and IT.

Each department should align its objectives and KPIs. When everyone strives for the same goals, the program will run smoothly. There will be minimal conflicts and misunderstandings.

Transparency with suppliers

Transparency is critical in any business relationship and applies to supply chain finance. Be transparent with suppliers about the financing terms to avoid misunderstandings or conflicts.

Lack of transparency in supply chain finance can lead to a damaged relationship with your suppliers. Their trust in you will reduce, and they may hesitate about future collaborations.

Ensure compliance

All parties involved in supply chain financing should adhere to the applicable policies. Compliance means following rules to prevent fraud, bribery, corruption, and breaking trade sanctions.

Failing to comply with these regulations can have severe legal and reputation consequences. Everyone involved must implement appropriate measures to mitigate these activities. There should be regular audits of the program.

Utilize technology

With technology, you can reduce manual processing and increase efficiency. Manual input is labor intensive, increasing the overall cost of supply chain financing.

ERP platforms, like Impact, can provide real-time visibility into transactions. Its accounting module allows you to see invoice, payment, and request statuses instantly. It also reduces human errors with its automated processes.

Potential future trends in SCF

Supply chain finance emerged from the pandemic stronger than ever. It is now a piece of better equipment to challenge supply chain disruptions.

Further down the line, SCF will be a lucrative option for businesses of all sizes. Here are some potential trends to watch out for in this industry.

Integration of AI and blockchain

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology has the potential to transform SCF. Businesses can use AI to analyze data and identify risks. Blockchain, on the other hand, can improve the security and transparency of transactions.

Increased adoption by SMEs

As technology improves, SCF becomes a more accessible financial solution. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will likely adopt supply chain financing even more. They can access better financing and improve their supply chain operations.

Multiple finance options

In the future, relying solely on one finance provider may not be popular. Instead, programs will utilize a variety of financing options.

Right now, invoice financing is the primary focus of supply chain finance. However, there is a growing interest in expanding the range of financing options available – inventory and purchase order financing.

A broader approach to supply chain finance allows companies to optimize cash flow and manage risk effectively.

More collaboration between banks and fintech

We will likely see more collaboration between traditional banks and fintech companies as the industry evolves. This union aids innovation, reduces costs, and improves financing access.

These partnerships can leverage the strengths of both for better supply chain financing. Fintechs are known for their agility, innovation, and technology expertise. Traditional banks have deep experience in financial regulations, risk management, and financing operations.

Conclusion

Supply chain finance is a strategy that has been growing steadily in recent years. As a financing option that benefits all involved parties, SCF is very lucrative.

Extended payment periods in supply chain finance benefit buyers and suppliers while creating investment opportunities for financiers. Using SCF, many companies have cut costs, improved efficiency, and minimized supply chain disruptions.

Supply chain finance can be adapted to meet the changing needs of businesses as the business landscape evolves. Its evolution creates new opportunities for companies of all sizes to optimize operations and secure supply chains.