The Asset Finance Connect (AFC) recently hosted the Leaders’ Summit Europe in Brussels, bringing together over 100 of Europe’s most prominent industry leaders. The event, held on 16th April, provided a platform for senior industry figures to engage in networking, panel discussions, and roundtable sessions focused on the key issues impacting the equipment and auto finance markets in Europe.
The highly successful inaugural Leaders’ Summit Europe featured Alfa as the headline sponsor, with the event being sold out and attended by top industry players from across Europe.
The summit commenced with an insightful address by Richard Knubben, Director General at Leaseurope, who provided an overview of the regulatory landscape within the European Commission. Knubben highlighted the challenges posed by conflicting regulations across European markets and the impact of sustainability goals on commercial operations. Additionally, he discussed the political shift towards the right in response to the rising costs driven by eco-friendly measures, projecting this trend to continue into the upcoming parliamentary elections in June.
Another key highlight of the event was the briefing by Benedikt Middendorf, Director of Automotive Mobility at Deloitte, who emphasised the importance of identifying sustainable and commercially viable business models within an uncertain regulatory framework. A particular focus was placed on the implications of the Battery Regulation on the industry.
The event also featured a leaders’ panel discussion on the commercial opportunities arising from sustainability and the potential for technology to drive profit margins in the industry. The panel agreed on the increasing influence of green regulations and the growing importance of ESG compliance. However, they also acknowledged the challenges posed by evolving regulations, rising costs, and an uncertain market environment, underscoring the significant role of technology in navigating these complexities.
Subsequent sessions at the summit delved into critical topics such as the impact of battery regulation on residual values, the financial implications of transitioning to eco-friendly assets, and the opportunities presented by Greenhouse Gas Reporting and Taxonomy.
An important insight shared at the event was presented by Bill Stephenson, Global CEO of PEAC Solutions, who highlighted the need for asset finance businesses to adapt to changing market conditions. He stressed the importance of recognising the shifting dynamics within the industry and the imperative of aligning sales strategies with higher-margin business models.
The summit also provided a platform for in-depth discussions on the role of technology in driving transformation and enhancing margins within the asset finance sector. Leaders and industry experts deliberated on the need for clear technological strategies to address the challenges of managing margins and embracing new business models.
The summit concluded with afternoon roundtable sessions where leaders engaged in discussions on the role of asset finance companies in sustainability, the entry of Chinese BEVs into European markets, and the potential for circular economy initiatives in the industry.
The event concluded with networking opportunities at a drinks reception and dinner, sponsored by prominent industry players.
The Leaders’ Summit Europe in Brussels proved to be a significant gathering of industry leaders, providing valuable insights and fostering dialogue on the future of asset finance in Europe. The event’s success underlines the importance of such forums for driving innovation and collaboration within the industry.