In an economy where micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) make up 99.5% of all registered businesses and contribute 62.6% of the total employment, the significance of supporting these enterprises cannot be overstated. The backbone of the Philippine economy, MSMEs drive job creation, stimulate local economies, and foster innovation. Yet, despite their critical role, many MSMEs struggle with accessing the financial resources necessary for growth and sustainability. This is where Asialink Finance Corporation steps in—a beacon of hope for Filipino entrepreneurs and a key player in bolstering the national economy.
Founded 27 years ago, Asialink Finance Corporation has made it its mission to bridge the financial gap for MSMEs. Unlike traditional banks, which often impose stringent lending requirements that small businesses find difficult to meet, Asialink offers tailored financial solutions that are accessible, flexible, and designed with the unique needs of MSMEs in mind. This commitment is evident in the company’s steady growth and the positive impact it has had on the lives of thousands of Filipino entrepreneurs.
Bridging the Financing Gap
The Philippines is home to over 1 million MSMEs, yet a significant number of these businesses remain unbanked or underbanked, limiting their ability to scale operations, hire more workers, or invest in new technology. According to the Department of Trade and Industry, access to finance is one of the top three challenges faced by MSMEs in the country. Asialink Finance Corporation has addressed this challenge by providing over PHP 8.5 billion in loans in the first half of 2024 alone. This remarkable figure underscores the company’s dedication to ensuring that MSMEs have the financial backing they need to thrive.
In its latest strategic move, Asialink issued PHP 2 billion in fixed-rate corporate notes, its first foray into the capital markets. This diversification of funding sources allows the company to extend more loans to MSMEs, ensuring that even more Filipino entrepreneurs have access to the capital they need to grow their businesses. As CEO Roberto Jordan aptly put it, “These companies need funds to grow. They are the backbone of our economy, and their growth is everybody’s growth. Asialink is their link, and we will continue to raise the funds they need. That is our mission.”
Driving Employment and Economic Growth
Beyond providing financial support, Asialink Finance Corporation’s impact on the Philippine economy is profound. By empowering MSMEs, the company is directly contributing to job creation—an essential driver of economic development. As MSMEs expand, they create more employment opportunities, thereby reducing the unemployment rate and helping lift families out of poverty. With over 4,879 sales partners and nearly 200 branches nationwide, Asialink is not only a financial partner but also a significant employer in its own right, further underscoring its role in national development.
Earlier this year, Asialink forged several strategic partnerships, proudly signing agreements with Automart.ph, Cathay United Bank, Creador, DashcarrPro, and Hana Bank. They are honoured to collaborate with these esteemed companies, who share their commitment to achieving mutual goals. These collaborations are not just about financial transactions; they represent a shared commitment to uplifting the Philippine economy by supporting the very businesses that fuel it.
A Vision for the Future
Asialink Finance Corporation’s vision goes beyond short-term financial gains. It is about building a sustainable future where MSMEs are not just surviving but thriving, contributing to a strong and resilient economy. By 2033, Asialink aims to be at the forefront of the financing industry, providing inclusive financial access not just in the Philippines but across Asia. This ambitious goal reflects the company’s belief in the potential of MSMEs to transform economies and its dedication to playing a pivotal role in that transformation.
In conclusion, Asialink Finance Corporation’s unwavering commitment to supporting Filipino MSMEs is not just a business strategy—it is a national imperative. By empowering small businesses, Asialink is helping to create jobs, drive economic growth, and build a brighter future for the Philippines. As the company continues to grow and innovate, it remains steadfast in its mission to be the financial link that connects Filipino entrepreneurs to the opportunities they need to succeed.
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