Close Brothers Group, PLC is a UK-based financial services company founded in 1878, employing approximately 3,000 individuals. The company operates primarily in the finance and banking sectors, providing various financial solutions. A notable publication from Close Brothers is the "2024-25 SME State of Play report," which addresses the challenges and opportunities facing small and medium-sized (SME) home builders. This report highlights the ongoing difficulties that SME builders encounter, including supply chain delays, rising costs, and changes in building regulations, which have been exacerbated by recent geopolitical events and the changing mortgage landscape. The report emphasizes the importance of supporting SME builders to meet housing supply targets and discusses the broader economic implications of their success. It reflects Close Brothers' commitment to understanding and addressing the unique challenges within the housing market, particularly as they relate to SMEs. The company’s focus on analytical reporting and insights into the financial landscape underscores its expertise in providing tailored financial services to meet the needs of its clients.