A Closer Look into Bank Lending Behavior toward Family Firms

Abstract

Family businesses are considered the backbone of the Belgian economy, with the vast majority of active companies in Belgium falling into this category. Consequently, the growth of family businesses is closely linked to overall economic growth. Family businesses need to make investments to stimulate this growth, which requires financial resources. Bank financing has proven to be one of the primary sources of funding to realize these investments. This doctoral dissertation explores this funding source, focusing specifically on family businesses.