Small businesses said card transaction sales have not appeared in their bank accounts for the past week after HSBC Bermuda merchant deposits failed to be processed on time.

Peter Richold, of All Wrapped Up in Washington Mall, said none of his customers' credit card transactions had been processed since November 19.

Kristi Grayston, chairman of the retail division of the Chamber of Commerce and owner of Pulp & Circumstance, said she had not had her fees credited since November 18, adding that retailers impacted still had bills and wages to pay despite the potential drying up of cash flow.

A Bank of Bermuda spokeswoman said the bank hoped to have the problem resolved by today.

"HSBC Bermuda merchant deposits were not processed following a delay in the delivery of daily files sent from FDR, overseas credit card clearing house," she said.

"HSBC Bermuda is aware of the delay and has posted an update on their business internet banking website and are assisting merchants through the recovery of the funds owed to them. It is estimated FDR will have the processing delay rectified by tomorrow."