Unlocking SME Value: A Comparative Analysis of Equity Financing and Bank Loans
Authors
Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Guru Gobind sing college of Engineering and research centre, Nashik (India)
Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, MVP’S K.B.T.College of Engineering, Nashik (India)
Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Applications, Sandip Foundation’s Sandip Institute of Engineering and Management, Nashik (India)
Article Information
DOI: 10.51584/IJRIAS.2025.101100098
Subject Category: FINANCE
Volume/Issue: 10/11 | Page No: 1060-1070
Publication Timeline
Submitted: 2025-11-08
Accepted: 2025-11-14
Published: 2025-12-22
Abstract
This research paper investigates the comparative effectiveness of equity financing and bank loans in unlocking the value of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). By examining the structural differences, risk profiles, and financial implications of these two financing methods, the study aims to determine which option is more conducive to SME growth and performance. Through a comprehensive literature review and empirical analysis, the paper explores factors such as financial flexibility, valuation, and industry-specific considerations that influence SME financing decisions. The findings suggest that while both equity financing and bank loans have their merits, equity financing can offer certain advantages in terms of long-term growth potential and valuation. However, the optimal choice for an SME depends on its specific circumstances, including its stage of development, risk tolerance, and strategic objectives.
Keywords
Equity Financing, Bank Loans, Small and Medium-sized
Downloads
References
1. Muritala, T. A., Awolaja, A. M., & Bako, Y. A. (2012). Small and medium enterprises and economic growth in Nigeria. Acta Universitatis Danubius. Oeconomica, 8(3). [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
2. Njeru, W. G. (2013). Market orientation, marketing practices, firm characteristics, external environment and performance of tour firms in Kenya. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
3. Howorth, C. A. (2001). Small firms' demand for finance: A research note. International Small Business Journal, 19(4), 78-86. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
4. Mac an Bhaird, C., & Lucey, B. (2010). Determinants of capital structure in Irish SMEs. Small business economics, 35(3), 357-375. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
5. Eliane, B., Angelo, P. J., Ana, L. P. and Ricardo, A. K. (2005). Delay of ripening of ‘Pedro Sato’ guava with1-methyl cyclopropane. Postharvest Biology and Technology (35) 303–308 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
6. Annrita Esther Nasimiyu.(2024) Cashflow Management Practices and Financial Performance of Small and Medium Business Enterprises in Kenya. African Journal of Commercial studies. 4(3) (2024) 252-263 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
7. Dr. Fong Chun Cheong, Equity Financing and Debt Financing, Steve, School of Business, Macao Polytechnic Institute [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
8. What is Equity Finance? Definition of Equity Finance, Equity Finance Meaning - The Economic Times. (n.d.). The Economic Times. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/definition/equity-finance [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
9. Purnima Raoa, Satish Kumarb , Vinodh Madhavan. A study on factors driving the capital structure decisions of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in India. (2018) [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
10. A Sarbah, I Quaye .Effects of globalization on small medium-sized enterprise development in Ghana. African Journal of Business Management, 2021 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
11. Yanhui Wang, Zhuang Yan-Qing. Correlation study between capital structure, stock equity structure, debt structure and corporation governance .Jun 2009 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
12. Rascher, D. A. (2021). Debt and Equity Financing (pp. 220–243). routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429316746-9 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
13. Shim, H., & Kang, C. (2012). Beating Earnings Benchmarks Between Equity-Financing and Debt-Financing Firms. Korea International Accounting Review, null(42), 123–142. https://doi.org/10.21073/kiar.2012..42.006 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
14. Weian Wang, Audong Jiao, Shanshan Huang. Bank's Credit Strategy for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises.( Nov 2020). [Google Scholar] [Crossref]
Metrics
Views & Downloads
Similar Articles
- Financial Technology (Fintech): Current Research at The Cutting Edge
- Reforming Corporate Governance in Malaysia to Address Fraudulent Financial Reporting Cases
- Stock Market Efficiency and Economic Diversification in Nigeria and South Africa
- Financial Stability and Financial Performance of Small and Medium Tiered Deposit Taking Savings and Credit Cooperatives in Kenya.
- Regulator Sandboxes for DeFi: A Comparative Analysis of Policy Effectiveness in the EU, US, and Asia Pacific