The leasing landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Driven by factors like hybrid work, economic uncertainty, and technological advancements, CFOs are re-evaluating their leasing strategies to optimize costs, manage risks, and drive operational efficiency.
FinQuery’s 2025 CFO Benchmark Report for Strategic Leasing provides valuable insights into these evolving trends, drawing on a massive database of real-world lease data. Here are some key takeaways:
The Rise of Short-Term Leasing
Flexibility is the name of the game in today’s uncertain economic climate. CFOs are increasingly opting for shorter lease terms, especially for equipment, to avoid getting locked into long-term commitments. This allows them to adapt quickly to changing business needs and market conditions.
*Key stat: Short-term equipment leasing has surged by 33.7% annually since 2019.
The Evolving Office Space
The shift towards hybrid work models has significantly impacted commercial real estate. Demand for large, traditional office spaces is declining, while smaller, more flexible workspaces are gaining popularity. This reflects the changing needs of businesses as they adapt to a more distributed workforce.
*Key stat: High-value office lease liabilities ($1 million–$2 million) have decreased by -9.7% CAGR.
The Growth of Equipment and Vehicle Leasing
As companies seek to scale their operations and invest in new technologies, equipment and vehicle leasing are becoming increasingly attractive options. This allows businesses to access the latest assets without the upfront capital expenditure, preserving cash flow and providing greater financial flexibility.
*Key stat: The global commercial vehicle rental and leasing market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7% through 2029.
The Shift Toward Sustainable Transportation
The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is also impacting the leasing landscape. As companies prioritize sustainability and seek to reduce their carbon footprint, EV leasing is becoming increasingly popular, particularly for fleet vehicles.
*Key stat: The global EV leasing market is projected to reach $76.3 billion by 2030.
The Importance of Strategic Planning
In this dynamic environment, CFOs need to adopt a strategic approach to leasing. This involves carefully analyzing their needs, assessing market conditions, and leveraging data-driven insights to make informed decisions that align with their business objectives.
FinQuery’s 2025 CFO Benchmark Report provides valuable data and insights to help CFOs navigate these trends and optimize their leasing strategies. The report includes visual comparisons, regional breakdowns, and real-world case studies to guide CFOs in making informed decisions that drive efficiency, reduce risk, and support long-term growth.
Click here to download the full report.
