Debt Structure Determines Survival: The Architecture of Modern Business Growth Growth does not fail because of ambition. It fails because of structure . In 2026, small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) are discovering a harsh reality: how debt is layered matters significantly more than the total amount of capital raised. Emphasizing strategic capital architecture can foster confidence in your financial stability and resilience. The strongest operators are no longer just "borrowing" to fill gaps. They are building a financial foundation that withstands market volatility while fueling aggressive expansion. Capital Stacking as a Strategic Discipline Every form of debt serves a specific purpose, and systemic problems arise when those purposes blur. In a healthy capital stack, different financial instruments work in harmony, much like the structural components of a skyscraper. Short-term working capital: Designed to smooth out cash flow timing gaps and seasonal dips. Term loans: ...