What challenge is Alex facing in securing a loan for his new business?

Securing a loan is often significantly affected by an individual's credit score, as lenders use this metric to assess the risk of lending money. A low credit score can indicate to lenders that the borrower has a history of not managing debt responsibly, making them less likely to approve a loan application. Lenders typically favor applicants whose credit scores reflect a strong history of managing financial obligations, as this suggests a higher likelihood of repayment.

In the context of Alex's situation, a low credit score suggests that he may have faced financial difficulties in the past, which could lead to concerns about his ability to repay the loan for his new business. This particular challenge is crucial because, without a good credit score, Alex may find it difficult to secure the necessary funding, even if other aspects of his business plan are solid.

While other factors, such as having an underdeveloped business plan, lacking a guarantor, or not seeking enough funding, can also influence loan approval, the implications of a low credit score are often more significant, generally leading to immediate disqualification from loan options.