Laskumarkkinoilla

Laskumarkkinoilla, literally translating to "invoice markets" or "factoring markets" in English, refers to the financial marketplace where companies sell their outstanding invoices (accounts receivable) to a third party, known as a factor, at a discount. This practice is a form of short-term financing that allows businesses to access cash immediately instead of waiting for their customers to pay.

Companies, often small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), utilize laskumarkkinoilla to improve their cash flow, bridge payment gaps, and fund ongoing operations or growth initiatives. The factor purchases the invoices and then collects the payment directly from the company's customers. The discount offered to the factor is typically a percentage of the invoice's face value, compensating the factor for the risk they assume and the services they provide.

The process generally involves the business submitting a batch of invoices to the factoring company. The factor then verifies the invoices and the creditworthiness of the customers. Upon approval, the factor advances a significant portion of the invoice value, often 70-90%, to the business. Once the customer pays the invoice in full to the factor, the factor deducts their fees and the remaining balance is remitted to the business. Laskumarkkinoilla can be structured in different ways, including recourse factoring, where the business retains liability if the customer defaults, and non-recourse factoring, where the factor assumes the credit risk. This financial tool can be particularly beneficial for businesses with long payment terms or those experiencing rapid growth.