Despite Strong Business Financial Resilience for Small and Medium Enterprises in India, Women-Led Businesses face Persistent Challenges
(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
BusinessWire India – New Delhi, Oct 9
The Financial Resilience Institute, a global authority on business health, just released its latest study on the financial strength of India’s small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs). The report shows that while many Indian SMEs report strong financial health, they still face gaps in support—especially women‑owned and women‑led firms.
### Key take‑aways
* More than 90 % of Indian SMEs want to learn how to boost their financial resilience.
* Almost three‑quarters (73 %) keep enough liquid cash or retained earnings to cover six months of operating costs.
* Women‑owned SMEs encounter added barriers: 76 % report at least three difficulties accessing business banking products in the last two years, compared with 68 % of men‑owned firms.
* Natural disasters such as heatwaves, floods and fires hurt 42 % of SMEs, with women‑owned and agricultural businesses suffering the most.
* 92 % of SMEs rate their primary bank highly for resilience support, yet they feel banks can do more. The report lists specific products and services that could close this gap.
* Financial institutions that invest in tools to help SMEs grow their resilience stand to gain significant business benefits—cost reductions, deeper client loyalty and higher loan performance.
The study is based on an online survey of 409 SMEs with annual sales between $100,000 and $2 million, conducted in June 2025 and funded by Standard Chartered. The findings are framed with a gender‑disaggregated lens, offering fresh indicators that can apply to markets beyond India.
“The report demonstrates the strengths Indian SMEs already possess and highlights critical opportunities for banks and other partners,” said Eloise Duncan, CEO and founder of the Financial Resilience Institute. “By improving access to tailored financial solutions, we can help small businesses build lasting resilience and boost national prosperity.”
The full report and a condensed summary are available here:
(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by BusinessWire India. will not be responsible for the accuracy of the content.)
Source: aninews
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