10/09/2026
The Bank of England is currently holding the Base Rate at 3.75%, with its next decision due on 17 September.
Whilst many businesses have become accustomed to a higher interest rate environment, hopes of rapid rate cuts have faded. In fact, wholesale funding costs and swap rates have been moving upwards in recent weeks, suggesting lenders may not see materially cheaper funding in the near term.
Why does this matter?
Interest rate movements can have a significant impact on:
• Commercial mortgage pricing
• Development finance costs
• Business loan affordability
• Refinancing opportunities
• Investment and acquisition plans
Many borrowers have spent the last 12 months waiting for rates to fall before refinancing or pressing ahead with growth plans. However, lending costs are influenced by far more than the Bank of England's Base Rate, and waiting for cheaper borrowing doesn't always deliver the outcome businesses expect.
That doesn't mean rushing into new debt. It does mean having a clear funding strategy rather than trying to perfectly time the market.
Whether you're approaching a refinance, funding an acquisition, investing in property, or supporting future growth, understanding your options now can put you in a stronger position regardless of where rates move next.
Our view remains simple: make funding decisions based on your business objectives, not on the assumption that rates will be significantly lower in a few months' time.
Are you waiting for rates to fall before making your next move, or is the right opportunity worth pursuing today?