WASHINGTON, DC: The Federal Reserve on Monday launched its latest life raft for US businesses hurt by the coronavirus pandemic.
Administered by the Boston Fed, the Main Street Lending Programme will offer up to US$600 billion in loans through participating lenders to small and medium-sized businesses that were in strong financial shape before the crisis.Here is an overview of the programme and how it varies from other aid available for small businesses:The biggest difference between the Main Street Lending Programme and the Paycheck Protection Programme is that Main Street loans cannot be forgiven.
PPP loans can be converted to grants if businesses meet certain requirements, but Main Street loans must be repaid.The Main Street program is open to US businesses with up to 15,000 employees or with revenues up to US$5 billion. PPP loans are only available to businesses with fewer than 500 employees.Businesses that receive PPP loans or economic injury disaster loans can still apply for funding through the Main Street programme.
The Fed will then purchase 95 per cent of the loan. Banks can set their own underwriting standards and may set additional requirements beyond those set by the Fed.HOW QUICKLY DO LOANS HAVE TO BE REPAID? Main Street loans have terms of five years, and no payments on principal or interest will be due during the first two years. There is also no penalty for businesses that pay their loans off early.