Neil Pein: equipment investment demands greater flexibility

Faster technological change and pressure on capital are prompting European businesses to reconsider how they invest in equipment, writes Neil Pein, CEO of BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions, in the AFE50 Report 2026.

Neil Pein’s feature, “Rethinking equipment investment in an age of uncertainty”, explores the balance between ownership, flexibility and the need to remain competitive.

Drawing on research among more than 1,000 senior decision-makers across eleven European markets, Pein examines how equipment obsolescence, capital commitments and lifecycle responsibilities are influencing investment decisions.

The research found that 95% of business leaders believe equipment becomes obsolete faster than it did five years ago. That creates challenges for businesses seeking a return on investment while retaining the ability to adopt newer technologies.

Ownership remains important, but companies are becoming more selective about when it delivers value and when alternative approaches better meet their needs.

For finance providers, the implications extend beyond funding an acquisition. Pein considers customers’ growing expectations for sector knowledge, digital capability and support throughout the asset lifecycle.

His contribution forms part of the tenth edition of the AFE50, published by Finance Connect in association with Asset Finance Policy and sponsored by Alfa.