This study analyzes the effect of the reputation SMEs get in a relationship lending on the cost of next loans. A unique dataset of 734 Spanish SMEs' relationship lending provides information on a loan-by-loan basis about the ex post previous loan performance, which measures reputation. No prior...

The current collapse of credit markets has left small and medium enterprises (SMEs) facing severe credit rationing. The practice of screening borrowers by risk level has become a paramount consideration for both lenders and firms. This paper represents the first empirical test of the screening...