BEST COMPANIES

WELCOME TO MONITOR’S ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE: THE BEST COMPANIES ISSUE.

As we kick off the year, we are at a crossroads where “invisible” infrastructure and human-centric values are becoming primary drivers of success. This issue examines what sets industry-leading companies apart, focusing on the pillars of innovation, culture, leadership, inclusion and community impact. Market volatility and rapid digital acceleration have become the norm in today’s market. Being the “best” is no longer limited to volume; it depends upon agility, leadership and purpose.

The Best Companies section is the heart of this issue. We feature detailed profiles of this year’s honorees that provide a roadmap for how the industry’s top firms are building trust, unlocking diverse perspectives and proving that social stewardship and commercial success are two sides of the same coin. Whether through intentional leadership development or people-first cultures, these organizations demonstrate what it takes to thrive in a shifting environment.

To understand how these leaders navigate a complex global landscape, David Wiener of The Alta Group provides a deep dive into the strategic importance of buy desk origination. He reminds us that entering this market requires not only capital but a solid proof of concept and the ability to build long-term credibility with syndication partners. Understanding these market dynamics is equally vital when managing collateral. Joe Santora of Irontrax sat down with me to break down the diverging realities of today’s equipment market. He explores why asset values remain “sticky” for specialized equipment such as cranes, while the transportation sector continues to search for a bottom.

Technology also continues to be a great accelerator. Simon Harrsen of CHG Meridian explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and IT equipment finance, discussing how capital constraints are driving companies toward more flexible, intelligent solutions. We also look toward the horizon with our 2026 Market Outlooks, examining the sectors that define our portfolios: trucking, construction, IT and technology services, industrial manufacturing and agriculture.

We also introduce a new column, Ask the Monitor, in which we will call upon our stable of industry experts to answer your questions. In the first edition, Bill Bosco clarifies the nuances of lease structures and residual values under current accounting and IRS rules. And in The Collector Chronicles, Ty Schwamberger of Elevex Capital offers a compelling look at the psychology of collections, helping us differentiate between those who truly cannot pay and those who simply won’t — a distinction that can save both time and collateral.

To keep these conversations going, I invite you to join us at our upcoming events. In March, our virtual Converge: Reimagine the Future of Credit & Risk event will tackle the challenges of rising fraud and talent shortages. In Philadelphia in June, our LeadHer Women’s Leadership Summit will challenge us to redefine the possible; be sure to take advantage of Early Bird pricing before February 27.

Stay tuned for our Mar/Apr issue, which will focus on funding sources and our Top 30 Private Independents ranking.