New Equifax data shows large businesses borrowing more while SMEs pull back hard. New Equifax data shows large businesses borrowing more while SMEs pull back hard. A Widening Credit GapLarge services businesses increased business loan applications by 11.8 percent year-on-year and asset finance by 17.1 percent. Large businesses in the sector grew business loan demand by 16.4 percent and asset finance by 13.9 percent. SMEs in transport saw a modest 1.7 percent rise in asset finance demand alongside a 0.8 percent dip in loans.