Comprehend that a business segment has to take large loans first (5)

I believe the answer is:

smell

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But I can't explain it at all! Could you help me understand?

(Other definitions for smell that I've seen before include "Sniff" , "Unpleasant odour" , "Aroma" , "Scent" , "Nasal sense" .)

I've seen this clue in The Hindu.

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