Investec marks 20 years of asset finance as AI reshapes broker demand

Investec Asset Finance has marked its 20th anniversary with an event for more than 80 UK broker principals and directors, focused on how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies could reshape the asset finance market.

The event examined how AI, automation and data-led business models may influence the types of assets businesses need to fund, as well as how brokers support clients making investment decisions.

Investec Asset Finance has grown its broker network from 50 brokers in 2006 to 260 today. The business works with specialist commercial finance brokers to provide asset finance to UK mid-market businesses, corporates and professional practices, including transactions up to £10m.

The discussion centred on the possibility that AI will create demand for new asset classes beyond traditional vehicles, machinery and equipment. These include robotics, automation platforms, AI-enabled healthcare diagnostics, smart manufacturing systems, battery infrastructure, intelligent logistics networks and AI-powered agricultural equipment.

That shift could affect how asset finance brokers assess client needs. Many technology-led assets may not fit neatly into existing funding frameworks, particularly where value is linked to usage, output, data or performance rather than outright ownership.

Wes Harfield, Head of AFG Sales at Investec Asset Finance, said AI is becoming an asset finance issue because it is creating new categories of assets and changing how businesses think about value.

Investec said brokers will have an important role in helping clients understand, fund and adopt assets needed in a more automated and data-led economy.

The anniversary also reflects the continued importance of broker-led distribution in the UK asset finance market. Specialist brokers remain central to connecting mid-market businesses with lenders that can structure facilities around equipment, seasonal payments, VAT deferrals and cross-border requirements.

As client investment needs change, asset finance providers are likely to face growing demand for flexibility around valuation, risk assessment and repayment structures.