The diocese, however, can provide low-interest short-term loans and if needed longer-term loans similar to mortgages.

But it's very difficult, if not impossible, to hedge against longer-term loans, such as 30-year fixed loans.

Granted, mortgage experts say they're still seeing plenty of consumers who are more interested in the upfront savings associated with longer-term loans.

Analysts attribute the sharp rise to the easier credit and longer-term loans made available in recent years.

Bridge loans may be used as temporary financing pending a longer-term loan.

Russia is expected to press creditors to replace short-term loans with longer-term loans.

The World Bank makes longer-term loans to finance large projects in poorer lands.

"Not only do additional loans look necessary next year but longer-term loans may eventually need to be made available on more generous terms," he said.

The next types of investment is longer-term loans to government, such as 3-year bonds.

The groups said the aid, including longer-term loans of up to $500,000, would be provided at below-market interest rates over the next three years.