# Will The Fed's Rate Hike Squeeze Small Business Financing?

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/grey-journal-daily-news-podcast-6927761/will-the-fed-s-rate-hike-squeeze-small-business-financing
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/grey-journal-daily-news-podcast-6927761/will-the-fed-s-rate-hike-squeeze-small-business-financing.md
Podcast: [GREY Journal Daily News Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/grey-journal-daily-news-podcast-6927761)
Published: 2026-09-17T17:47:01+00:00
Episode link: https://greyjournal.net/news/
Audio file: https://sphinx.acast.com/p/open/s/665dda1b3ce6480013459039/e/6aac2793fa2bb1bafe2f8b62/media.mp3
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Duration seconds: 72

## Resource

The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate, the first increase since 2023, signaling tighter financial conditions for businesses. The change typically pushes banks to lift the prime rate, increasing costs for variable rate credit lines, equipment loans, and credit cards. SBA 7(a) loans priced over prime and SBA 504 loans tied to Treasury yields are set to become more expensive. Startups using venture debt will face higher all-in rates and potentially tighter covenants, while higher discount rates may weigh on late-stage valuations. Elevated short-term yields improve returns on cash, but overall borrowing costs rise, affecting project plans and hiring. Founders are advised to stress test interest assumptions, revisit debt structures, and strengthen banking relationships while monitoring key inflation and labor data. Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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