The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word REPOS
R
E
P
O
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "deals similar to loans" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case deals similar to loans = repos.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does REPOS mean?
REPOS noun- Repossession
- A repurchase agreement: a type of derivative which allows a borrower to use a financial security as collateral for a cash loan at a fixed interest rate
- A repository usually containing software, in either source code or precompiled form.
- Repossess