What is a Commercial Lender? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

A commercial lender is an organization primarily focused on providing loans and financing services. To qualify as a commercial lender, the entity must have a loan portfolio exceeding $100,000,000, with no more than 50 percent of that amount allocated to loans for borrowers in the commercial fishing industry. This definition is established under federal law.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A bank that specializes in providing loans to businesses, with a total loan portfolio of $150 million, qualifies as a commercial lender.

Example 2: A credit union that offers financing to various industries, including commercial fishing, but has less than 50 percent of its loans allocated to that sector, is also considered a commercial lender.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Commercial lender An entity that provides loans, primarily for business purposes. Focuses on larger loan portfolios and specific industry restrictions.
Consumer lender An entity that provides loans to individuals for personal use. Typically involves smaller loan amounts and personal financing.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering obtaining a loan from a commercial lender, it's essential to understand the terms and conditions of the loan. Users can explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist in preparing necessary documents. If your situation is complex, seeking advice from a legal professional may be beneficial.

Quick facts

  • Typical loan portfolio: Over $100 million
  • Industry focus: Must not exceed 50 percent in commercial fishing loans
  • Legal reference: 46 USCS § 31322

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The primary function is to provide loans and financing to businesses and commercial entities.