When applying for a business loan, one of the most important decisions SME owners must make is choosing between a fixed or variable (floating) interest rate. This choice can significantly impact your monthly repayments, total interest paid, and your ability to manage cash flow, especially in a fluctuating economic environment.
In this article, we break down the differences between fixed and variable interest rates, their pros and cons, and how to decide which is right for your SME.
What Is a Fixed Interest Rate?
A fixed interest rate remains constant throughout the loan tenure or for a specified lock-in period. This means your monthly repayments stay the same, regardless of market fluctuations.
Example: If you take a 3-year SME loan at a fixed rate of 4% per annum, your interest rate and monthly repayment amount will not change during that period.
Pros
- Predictable monthly payments
- Easier budgeting and cash flow planning
- Protection against rising interest rates
Cons
- May be higher than initial variable rates
- Less flexibility if market rates fall
What Is a Variable (Floating) Interest Rate?
A variable interest rate fluctuates based on market benchmarks, such as the Singapore Overnight Rate Average (SORA) or other reference rates. Your monthly repayments may increase or decrease depending on interest rate movements.
Example: A loan with a variable rate of “SORA + 2%” means your rate will adjust as SORA changes.
Pros
- Potential for lower initial rates
- Benefit from falling interest rates
Cons
- Unpredictable monthly payments
- Higher risk if rates rise
- Harder to plan long-term cash flow
How Interest Rates Are Calculated in Singapore
According to MoneySense Singapore, interest rates can be calculated using:
- Flat Rate
Based on the original loan amount; interest remains constant.
- Monthly Rest
Based on the outstanding balance; interest reduces as you repay.
- Effective Interest Rate (EIR)
Reflects the true cost of borrowing, including fees and compounding effects.
Always compare loans using the EIR, not just the advertised rate.
Which Option Is Right for Your SME?
| Criteria | Fixed Rate | Variable Rate |
|---|---|---|
|
Cash Flow Stability |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
|
Initial Cost |
❌ May be higher |
✅ Often lower |
|
Risk Tolerance |
✅ Low-risk |
❌ Higher-risk |
|
Market Outlook |
✅ Good if rates are rising |
✅ Good if rates are falling |
Choose a fixed rate if:
- You prefer predictable payments
- You’re operating on tight margins
- You expect interest rates to rise
Choose a variable rate if:
- You can tolerate some risk
- You expect rates to fall or stay low
- You want to minimize initial costs
Conclusion: Choose Based on Strategy, Not Just Cost
The right interest rate structure depends on your business’s financial health, cash flow predictability, and risk appetite. By understanding the differences between fixed and variable rates, you can make a more informed decision that supports your SME’s long-term growth and stability.
