FILED IN: CFLA 2024, INSIGHTS IN EQUIPMENT FINANCE, CANADIAN EQUIPMENT FINANCE MARKET, TAREQ HADHAD, EQUIPMENT FINANCE TRENDS, ASSET FINANCE, LTI TECHNOLOGY FINANCE, DIGITAL TECH, OMAHA, NE FINANCE, WOMEN IN EQUIPMENT FINANCE
25 SEPTEMBER 2024 | by Jen Martin, SVP/Chief Product Officer, LTi Technology Solutions
The Canadian Finance & Leasing Association (CFLA) 2024 Annual Conference held September 10-12th at the St. John’s Convention Centre in Newfoundland delivered a powerful experience, reflecting the conference’s theme, “A New World of Opportunities.” As a participant and advocate for innovation in the equipment finance sector, I found the diverse lineup of keynotes, workshops, and networking events particularly impactful to arm us as together we shape the future of our industry.
A Keynote that Resounded: Tareq Hadhad’s Message of Resilience
One of the standout moments was the keynote from Tareq Hadhad, founder of Peace by Chocolate. His story, rooted in themes of family, community, and the immigrant experience, struck a chord with everyone in attendance. Tareq’s message centered around resilience and gratitude, principles that are as vital to personal success as they are to professional growth in the equipment finance industry.
His ability to weave the journey of his family’s chocolate business with deeper conversations about identity and tradition reminded me of the core values we strive to embed in our organization at LTi: adaptability and a people-first approach. For 35 years, LTi’s laser focus on customer service and a client driven approach has been a key differentiator and a pillar of #TheLTiDifference. In times of market uncertainty, it’s the resilience we build, both as individuals and as a collective industry, that defines our growth trajectory.
Exploring Industry Challenges and Innovations
The conference’s wide-ranging sessions tackled the pressing challenges facing our sector. From discussions centered on anti-money laundering (AML) compliance, the integration of automation and AI into asset finance, and the latest innovations in auto finance, the conference provided a roadmap for navigating the complexities of today’s financial landscape.
The session on AI in asset finance was a major highlight showcasing how artificial intelligence as a tool is poised to enhance operational efficiency, streamline underwriting processes, and provide predictive insights to better manage assets. As technology leaders, it’s clear that adopting and integrating these emerging tools will be critical for staying ahead in this competitive market.
Empowering Women Leaders in Equipment Finance
Another critical topic that the CFLA showcased was the importance of women in leadership. The dedicated panel on women leaders in the equipment finance industry offered valuable insights into the evolving role of female executives, stressing the need for diversity in leadership. As we continue to foster innovation in finance, ensuring representation and equal opportunity remains essential for a balanced and forward-thinking sector.
Networking: Building Connections for Future Growth
Beyond the keynotes and educational sessions, the CFLA’s networking events provided an environment conducive to both meaningful discussions and casual conversations. In these exchanges, creative ideas were sparked, partnerships formed, and the seeds for future collaboration were planted. The opportunity to connect with peers, share knowledge, and engage in thoughtful dialogue is always one of the most valuable aspects of industry events like this.
Looking Forward: The Road Ahead for Equipment Finance
The CFLA 2024 Annual Conference served as a reminder that the world of equipment finance is evolving, and with evolution comes unprecedented opportunities. Whether it’s embracing AI, navigating regulatory changes, or championing diversity, the future is bright for those willing to adapt, collaborate, and innovate.
The key takeaway is clear: staying agile and forward-focused will be a key to unlocking success in the years ahead. As we continue to navigate this rapidly changing landscape in equipment finance, events like CFLA serve as both a beacon and a catalyst for growth.
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