Supply Chain Finance and Trade Finance: A Practical Guide to Their Differences
Supply chain finance and trade finance are two vital components of modern business operations, especially for companies engaged in global commerce . Although they both support the movement of goods and payments, they function in different ways and serve other financial needs. Understanding these distinctions helps companies better manage working capital, reduce risk, and strengthen their commercial relationships. Understanding the Concepts Supply chain finance (SCF) improves cash flow by enabling suppliers to receive early payments on approved invoices. Instead of waiting for extended payment terms, suppliers gain quicker access to funds. Buyers benefit as well, as SCF enables them to maintain longer payment cycles without harming their suppliers’ financ ial stability. This mutually beneficial structure strengthens the overall supply ecosystem. Trade finance, on the other hand, is a broader category that includes financial tools designed to facilitate international buying and selling. ...