Letter from the Editor — 2026 Top Private Independents and Funding Source Directory

As we step into 2026, the equipment finance landscape is undergoing a profound shift from a period of “wait-and-see” to a new era of discipline.

After a year in which tariff policy uncertainty and fluctuating interest rates sidelined deals, we are seeing a strategic return to the table. Monitor’s annual Top Private Independents and Funding Source issue features stories and data from the companies navigating this more optimistic, yet highly calculated, economic environment.

Our cover story by James Jackson of The Alta Group dives deep into why M&A activity is poised for a modest increase this year. While 2025 was marked by hesitation, Jackson explores how shifting economic conditions and a resurgence of strategic buyer interest are signaling a steady comeback for dealmakers.

A central theme of this issue is the resilience of the independent spirit. Despite a slower growth rate than in previous years, the top private independent finance firms reported a collective 7.6% increase in new business volume for 2025. In our Top Private Independents Roundtable, top executives discuss why specialized expertise and a “talent-first” culture remain the ultimate tools in an increasingly consolidated market. We also profile several firms making their mark: Capteris, Insight Capital Solutions, Mobilease, RESIDCO and Targeted Lending Co.

Growth in 2026 requires more than just volume; it requires precision. In our Funding Source Roundtable, leaders discuss the “calibration” of credit. As credit quality takes center stage, these experts weigh in on how to balance rigorous underwriting amid the rise of high-tech assets and new legislative shifts.

We also take a critical look at the tools we use. Ty Schwamberger explores the potential pitfalls of over-automation in collections, arguing that scripts and auto-dialers can often backfire by eroding the human judgment necessary to save a deal. 

From Jeffry Elliott’s 20-year evolution of independent leasing to Broadleaf Financial’s emergence as a Fortune 1000 lender, this issue is packed with stories of foundational strength and tech transparency.

___________________________________________________________________

Join Us in Philadelphia: Redefine the Possible

As we navigate this new era of equipment finance, I am excited to invite you to the LeadHer Women’s Leadership Summit in Philadelphia. This is not your typical conference; it is an intentional space designed for women at every level of equipment finance to unlearn limits and unlock leadership.

LeadHer is grounded in what’s next for our industry, focusing on business impact and leading boldly through a distinctly women-led lens. Join us for “real talk,” strategic networking and the opportunity to connect with industry trailblazers. Seating is limited, so I encourage you to register today at monitordaily.com/monitor-womens-leadership-summit-2026 to secure your spot and create lasting career momentum.

___________________________________________________________________

Stay tuned for our upcoming May/June issue, which will feature our seventh annual NextGen profiles and our 2026 Vendor Top 40 ranking report.