
Red Flags: How to Spot High-Risk Borrowers in Commercial Lending
In commercial lending, identifying high-risk borrowers early can save banks millions. Based on 15+ years of underwriting experience across Asia and North America, we’ve compiled 36 warning signs that signal financial instability, fraud potential, or mismanagement. Whether you’re a lender, investor, or credit analyst, these red flags are critical for risk assessment. Top 10 High-Risk Borrower Traits (Condensed from 36 indicators for actionable insights) 1. Suspicious Financial Behavior 🔴 Irregular Cash Flows: Unexplained large transfers, hidden bank accounts, or inconsistent revenue patterns.🔴 Discrepancies in Books: Inventory/AR doesn’t match transactions; accounting staff frequently replaced.🔴 Personal & Business Funds Mixed: Loans used for personal interest payments (embezzlement risk). 2. Questionable Management Practices 🔴 “Ghost” CEO: Rarely onsite, unresponsive to calls (“Only he contacts you”).🔴 Chaotic Operations: Fancy titles but no systems;...