What Makes a Financial Model Bankable?
What Makes a Financial Model Bankable
A financial model is only as strong as the confidence it inspires. In project finance, M&A, commercial real estate, and trade finance, the term “bankable” means that lenders and investors can rely on the outputs to make real capital commitments. A bankable model does more than forecast cash flows: it ties to audited accounts, references credible sources, and withstands downside scenarios. If the numbers can’t be traced or stress-tested, the model will not survive credit committee.
The Core Benchmarks of a Bankable Model
There are four pillars that separate a working spreadsheet from a bankable financial model. Each one matters equally, because committees and underwriters are trained to spot weak links:
Why Sources Matter
Bankers and investors do not take numbers at face value. They want to know where every assumption comes from. A bankable model should include footnotes or a separate tab citing sources such as:
- Audited financial statements – to anchor historical data.
- Market research and broker reports – for commodity prices, cap rates, or market growth rates.
- Technical or engineering studies – for mining, energy, or infrastructure projects.
- Signed contracts and term sheets – for offtake, supply, or debt terms.
- Management accounts and operational KPIs – to support short-term forecasts.
Without sources, numbers look like guesses. With sources, they become evidence. A model that cites its foundations speeds up due diligence and builds trust with committees.
What Credit and Investment Committees Look For
Industry-Specific Expectations
Every sector has its own tests of bankability. A one-size-fits-all model will not pass. For example:
- Project Finance: Completion tests, DSRA rules, long-term debt sculpting, and offtake linkage.
- Commercial Real Estate: Cap rate assumptions, DSCR thresholds, lease-up schedules, and lender stress models.
- M&A: Purchase accounting, working capital adjustments, acquisition financing covenants, and debt paydown paths.
- Trade Finance: Shipment schedules, credit terms, FX sensitivity, warehouse receipts, and LC confirmation costs.
Make Your Model Bankable
Send us your financial model or draft forecast. We will benchmark it against bankable standards, check sources, and return a clear path to credit approval.
Request Investor-Ready MaterialsFinancely provides advisory and placement services. We are not a lender or issuer. Any financing is subject to independent credit approval, KYC/AML checks, sanctions screening, and executed documentation. Bankability criteria vary by lender, jurisdiction, and asset type.
Get Started With Us
Submit Your Deal & Receive a Proposal Within 1-3 Working Days
Submit your deal using our secure intake form, and receive a quote within 1-3 business days. Existing clients can connect with their relationship manager through our secure web portal.
All submissions are
promptly reviewed, and all communications are conducted through the intake form or the client portal for a seamless and secure process.
Thank you for considering working with us. A nominal fee of US$500 is required upon completion of each form. This fee covers the time and effort we invest in reviewing your submission and crafting a thorough proposal. We receive numerous inquiries and prioritize those that carry this fee, ensuring serious applicants receive prompt attention.
Trade Finance
Tap into solutions like letters of credit, bank guarantees, and payment facilitation. We address the challenge of global transaction risk through structured strategies that foster cross-border growth. Complete the form to unlock streamlined funding aligned with your commercial objectives.
Submit a RequestProject Finance
Access non-recourse funding for infrastructure, renewable energy, or other capital-intensive ventures. We mitigate capital constraints by isolating project assets and focusing on risk management. Provide your details to receive a structure that drives growth and maximizes returns.
Submit a RequestAcquisitions
Secure financing for business or real estate acquisitions. We ease transaction hurdles by reviewing cash flow, synergy opportunities, and exit plans. Complete the form for a customized proposal that supports your strategic investment objectives.
Submit a RequestFor Banks
Financely assists banks facing Basel III pressures by distributing trade finance deals and providing collateral for letters of credit. We reduce capital burdens while preserving client relationships and fostering service expansion. Submit your request to optimize your trade finance offerings.
Submit a RequestOnce we receive your submission, our team will review your information to determine feasibility. If eligible, you will receive a proposal or term sheet within 1–3 business days. Visit our FAQ and Procedure pages for more information.
Disclaimer: Financely provides financing based on due diligence and feasibility. Approval is not guaranteed, and past performance does not predict future outcomes. All terms are subject to review. Financely primarily assists with structuring and distribution. Qualified parties carry out the project if the client approves the proposal.
