When managing a business, you'll often encounter "Fund-Based" and "Non-Fund-Based" credit. Cash Credit (CC) and Overdraft (OD) actually put money in your hands, whereas a Bank Guarantee (BG) is a promise the bank makes to a third party on your behalf.
This is the most common form of working capital for businesses (especially manufacturers and traders). It is a revolving credit line specifically designed to fund day-to-day operations.
How it works: The bank sets a limit based on your "Drawing Power" (calculated from your current stock and debtors). You can withdraw and repay as often as you like within that limit.
Collateral: Usually secured by a "hypothecation" of inventory (stock) and receivables (debtors).
Interest: Charged only on the amount you actually use, not the total sanctioned limit.
Best for Businesses with heavy inventory cycles and consistent daily cash needs.
An Overdraft facility allows you to withdraw more money than you have in your current account, up to a pre-approved limit.
How it works: It’s an extension of your existing bank account. If your balance is zero, the bank lets you "overdraw" to pay bills or employees.
Collateral: Can be Secured (against Fixed Deposits, property, or shares) or Unsecured (based on your credit history and relationship with the bank).
Interest: Similar to CC, interest is only paid on the daily overdrawn balance.
Best for Handling sudden, short-term cash flow gaps or emergency expenses.
Unlike CC and OD, a Bank Guarantee is non-fund based. No money changes hands unless things go wrong.
How it works: The bank acts as a "guarantor." If you fail to fulfill a contract or make a payment to a vendor, the bank steps in and pays them on your behalf.
Types:
Financial Guarantee: The bank guarantees you will pay a specific debt.
Performance Guarantee: The bank guarantees you will complete a specific job (common in construction or tenders).
& many mores.
Cost: You don't pay interest; instead, you pay a commission fee (usually a percentage of the guarantee amount per year).
Best for Bidding on government tenders, securing large supply contracts, or importing goods.