Innovation in asset finance: Ian Robertson joins AFC’s European Podcast

The episode offers a detailed look into the evolving asset finance landscape across Europe and beyond.

A broad and informed perspective

Ian Robertson brings years of experience across the asset finance ecosystem. At Invigors, he leads a team focused on lessors, OEMs, software vendors, and investors, helping clients navigate operational challenges and identify opportunities in a rapidly evolving market. His international background, including leadership roles at Siemens Financial Services and DLL, provides a wide European lens to his insights.

Highlights from the discussion:

Industry trends from the AFC Amsterdam Summit: Ian reflects on the Asset Finance Connect Leaders’ Summit in Amsterdam, noting its strong mix of networking opportunities and high-quality content. Topics such as artificial intelligence, vendor finance strategy, and changing ownership structures were explored in depth. He emphasises the value of open and honest discussion at events of this calibre.

The role of artificial intelligence: The conversation explores the growing attention AI is receiving in asset finance. Ian acknowledges its practical applications, particularly in areas like intelligent document processing and agentic models. However, the continued importance of human relationships, especially in mid-to-large market transactions, remains a core theme.

Alternative asset managers and new funding models: Ian discusses increased activity from non-traditional players, including private credit funds and alternative asset managers. He shares how new entrants are actively seeking under-served niches, such as sale and leaseback deals and transition assets. Technologies like green methanol fuel cells and asset-as-a-service models are also creating new funding challenges and opportunities, often requiring specialised support and risk assessment.

The next generation of industry talent: Drawing on his involvement with Lease Europe’s Futures Group, Ian provides an optimistic view of the incoming talent pool. Young professionals are bringing diverse backgrounds and fresh thinking into the industry, particularly around AI and sustainability. Several new ideas being developed by the Futures Group demonstrate a high level of strategic and technical maturity.

Advice for early career professionals: The episode concludes with career insights for those entering the industry. Ian encourages openness, curiosity, and confidence in taking on new challenges. A key takeaway is the importance of listening and learning, especially in a field as dynamic and customer focused as asset finance.

An industry in motion

This episode offers a compelling overview of the innovation and transformation happening across the asset finance sector. From AI integration to new asset classes and investor types, the conversation reinforces that the industry is not static — it is expanding, modernising, and full of opportunity for both existing players and new entrants.

Listen now to Episode 7 of the Asset Finance Connect European Equipment Finance Podcast. And look out for upcoming episodes as AFC continues to explore key themes from the 2025 Asset Finance Connect European Leaders’ Summit.