Description:
With most economies seeking to tap on MSMEs to navigate beyond the devastating impact of Covid-19, this paper seeks to create an understanding of the MSMEs demand-side credit perspectives. Using 279 MSMEs from the KBA Inuka Enterprise program, we anchor our analysis on a three-step probit model with sample selection to examine the choices on the utilization of business versus personal accounts among MSMEs. The results reveals that the level of MSMEs turnover affect the choice to borrow, who to borrow from and the type of loan to pursue (between personal and business loan). However, the tendency of MSMEs with turnovers of over Ksh 500,000 leaning more towards the utilization of personal over business accounts remains a puzzle. Further, the age of enterprise is important for the decision to take a bank loan or other loans, with the implication that MSMEs need to have a long-term view over their businesses to be attractive to long-term funders (banks). Heterogeneity across the industry is evident and it influences MSMEs credit choices. The gender of MSME owner influences the use of a business or personal account for loans, as the results indicate men use their business accounts more than women. Lastly, registration status of MSMEs matters in accessing business loans. From the policy perspective, discussions around lessening the credit accessibility constraints imposed by turnover levels, the age of enterprise, industry of operation, gender and registration status of enterprises are key.