Credit union Trends

Private credit refers to the asset class of privately negotiated loans and debt financing from non-bank lenders. It includes loans to small businesses and consumers, as well as lending to middle-market companies that are not publicly traded or issued. Private credit provides a way for businesses to raise capital, with investors lending money to companies in exchange for interest payments and the ability to impose covenants and collateralization on the loan. Despite its categorization as an illiquid asset class, private credit has the potential to deliver higher returns than other fixed-income instruments, with lower default and loss rates. It can enhance returns, reduce volatility, and improve the income potential of traditional investment portfolios. However, investing in private credit carries risks, and it may not be suitable for risk-averse individuals or those in need of immediate access to their capital. Overall, private credit offers a potentially powerful complement to traditional fixed income strategies, offering incremental income generation and potential resilience.