Leading alternative lender: Experian’s Full-Year 2025 M&A Review

Experian’s MarketIQ Full-Year 2025 M&A Review confirms that UK deal activity remained resilient, with the UK continuing to rank among the most active and competitive M&A markets globally.

Within the lending market, 138 transactions were funded through bank or alternative debt during the year. Against this backdrop, ThinCats completed 36 transactions, ranking 2nd nationally by deal volume, behind HSBC, and retaining its position as the leading alternative debt provider by volume.

This performance reflects:

• Strong support from advisers and private equity sponsors
• The strength of our regional origination model delivering national coverage
• Disciplined and consistent credit execution
• A continued focus on supporting high-quality UK SMEs

While overall market volumes moderated year-on-year, demand for flexible and responsive funding remains strong. ThinCats continues to play a prominent role in the UK funding landscape, supporting ambitious mid-market businesses as they pursue growth and transformation.

We look forward to building on this momentum in the year ahead.

Source: Experian MarketIQ, Full-Year 2025