In the latest in our ‘meet the lender’ series, we caught up with Luke Flanagan at TFG Capital to hear what he has to say about speed, certainty and what really matters when placing deals.
What trends are you currently seeing in the market
We’re seeing continued demand for speed and certainty of execution, particularly in the bridging space. Brokers are placing more value on lenders who can make clear credit decisions quickly, rather than chasing headline rates.
What advice would you give to businesses seeking financing for the first time?
Work with experienced brokers who understand how to position your case properly – this can be the difference between a quick approval and a declined deal. Transparency is also key; the more upfront you are, the smoother the process will be.
Do you foresee the lending landscape changing in the next few years and how will this impact finance?
Yes, I think we’ll continue to see a clear divide between lenders who can genuinely deliver and those who can’t. For brokers and borrowers, this will make relationships and track record even more important when placing deals.
What motivates you personally in your work as a lender?
For me, it’s about getting deals done where others can’t. Every case is different, and I enjoy structuring solutions that work for both the borrower and the lender. There’s also real satisfaction in building long-term relationships with brokers who know they can rely on us to deliver.
How long have you been working with Evolve Business Finance, and how has the partnership benefited your business?
We’ve been working with Evolve for a while now, and it’s been a very positive relationship. They bring well-packaged, considered deals, which makes the process efficient on both sides. Having a broker who understands how we lend allows us to move quickly and maintain a high level of certainty for clients.
Can you share something about yourself that people might be surprised to learn?
Outside of work, I still play football regularly and have done since I was young. I’ve also been captain of my team for several years, which I really enjoy – especially the leadership side and keeping a team motivated.
What makes TFG Capital different from other lenders?
At TFG Capital, our focus is simple: clarity, speed and delivery. We’re not trying to be everything to everyone – we focus on deals where we know we can perform. Our criteria can flex depending on the deal and funding position, but our approach is consistent: clear communication, quick decisions and doing what we say we’ll do.