In their efforts to grow and succeed, many companies eventually reach the edge of a precipice. Across the divide lies a big step forward — perhaps the acquisition of a competitor or the purchase of a new property — but, financially, there is no way across. The money is just not there.

One way to bridge that divide is with a mezzanine loan. These instruments (also known as junior liens and second liens) can bridge financing shortfalls — so long as you meet certain qualifications and can accept possible risks.

Debt/equity hybrid

Mezzanine financing works by layering a junior loan on top of a senior (or primary) loan. It combines aspects of senior secured debt from a bank and equity obtained from direct investors. Sources of mezzanine financing can include private equity groups, mutual funds, insurance companies, and buyout firms.

Unlike bank loans, mezzanine debt typically is unsecured by the borrower’s assets or has liens subordinate to other lenders. Therefore, the cost of obtaining financing is higher than that of a senior loan.

The cost generally is lower than what is required to acquire funding purely from equity investment, and most mezzanine instruments do enable the lender to participate in the borrowing company’s success or failure. Generally, the lower your interest rate, the more equity you must offer. Importantly, mezzanine debt may even convert to equity if the borrower does not repay it on time.

Advantages & drawbacks

The primary advantage of mezzanine financing is it can provide capital when you cannot obtain it elsewhere or cannot qualify for the amount you are looking for. This is why it is often referred to as a ‘bridge’ to undertaking ambitious objectives such as a business acquisition or desirable piece of commercial property. Mezzanine loans are not, however, necessarily an option of last resort. Many companies prefer the flexibility of these loans when it comes to negotiating terms.

Naturally, mezzanine loans have drawbacks to consider. In addition to having higher interest rates, mezzanine financing has a few other potential disadvantages. Loan covenants can be restrictive. And though some lenders are relatively hands-off, they may retain the right to a significant say in company operations; particularly if you do not repay the loan in a timely manner.

Mezzanine financing also can also make a mergers and acquisitions deal more complicated. It introduces an extra interested party to the negotiation table and can make an already tricky deal that much harder.

Best financing decisions

If your company qualifies for mezzanine financing, it might help you close a deal that you otherwise could not. There are other options to consider, and we can help you make the best financing decisions.