Ivan Jauković, the President of ALCS’s Supervisory Board, stressed the pivotal role leasing plays in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), entrepreneurs and farmers, particularly in the early stages of business growth.
He pointed out that according to data from the European Investment Bank (EIB), these enterprises constitute a significant majority of business entities in Europe and contribute to three-quarters of the job market.
Jauković elucidated that leasing’s uniqueness lies in its dual function as both a financing tool and collateral, making it highly advantageous for the most crucial segment of both the European and domestic economies: micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.
He noted that leasing’s innovation is evident in its ability to finance a wide array of assets, facilitating the achievement of companies’ sustainability goals while also catering to various needs of individuals.
Jauković observed that compared to the previous decade, and even just a few years ago, the demands of both legal entities and individuals have undergone significant transformations.
He highlighted that many businesses now base their operations on sustainability goals, with leasing providing crucial support by financing diverse assets. Electric and hybrid vehicles, alongside other “green” items like electric vehicle chargers and solar panels, are now commonplace in leasing agreements. Notably, even the first electric buses, utilized by private urban transport companies, are financed through leasing arrangements.
ALCS representatives emphasized the substantial role of digitization in the current year, aiming to streamline processes for clients and within leasing companies.
Bojan Erak, ALCS’s Vice President of the Supervisory Board, explained that the adoption of modern technologies and digitalization in business operations has enabled financing approvals within minutes, contributing to time and resource savings while also promoting environmental sustainability. They aim to transition fully to paperless contracts in the near future, aligning with ESG principles.
Boris Stević, a member of ALCS’s Supervisory Board, underscored the potential benefits of abolishing VAT on interest, making leasing more appealing for acquiring new and used passenger vehicles. Such a move would enable more citizens and businesses to access newer vehicles, positively impacting pollution levels and improving the average age of vehicles in Serbia.
ALCS representatives remain optimistic about the future growth prospects of leasing as a financial product, citing its innovative nature as a key driver of stability in the coming years.
