Corporate cards popular as working capital solution
Euromoney, is part of the Delinian Group, Delinian Limited, 4 Bouverie Street, London, EC4Y 8AX, Registered in England & Wales, Company number 00954730
Copyright © Delinian Limited and its affiliated companies 2024
Accessibility | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Modern Slavery Statement
Treasury

Corporate cards popular as working capital solution

The use of corporate and virtual cards as part of a working capital management solution has become a defined strategy for some treasurers, who are also seeing the benefits of having an additional level of data.

Treasurers looking to optimize their working capital are exploring adding corporate cards to their arsenal, thanks to the extended payment terms and increased efficiencies they offer.

When clients are looking to start a card programme, Steve Robson, head of commercial cards EMEA, at Citi, explains that the bank wants to be clear about what it is they are trying to achieve. Clients now also have the choice between physical cards or virtual cards.

Steve Robson-160x186

Steve Robson, Citi

Robson says: “When speaking to clients about cards, we ask what their aim is. Is it to optimize their P2P [procure to pay] process and improve the efficiency of payment and procurement? Or is it simply to replace payment mechanisms and improve working capital? Or is it both?”

The spend on corporate cards is significant. Citi found the average transaction value on its virtual cards to be $4,727. It also found that 9% of payments are paid immediately when cards are used, and 37% paid within 10 days of receiving the invoice.

Robson explains that having the flexibility to pay the bank at a later date can expedite the payment of suppliers.

Gift this article