“Leasing is a financing method where a leasing company purchases equipment on behalf of a client and makes it available in exchange for periodic payments,” explains Isabelle Roussel.
The principle is straightforward: a company uses equipment without buying it upfront. During the contract term, the leasing company remains the owner, while the client uses the asset operationally. At the end of the contract, the client can purchase the asset, extend the lease, or return it. Another strong advantage is that leasing often covers the full investment. Additional costs such as installation or software can also be included, making it a powerful tool for managing cash flow.
Leasing goes far beyond traditional applications. “Companies can finance a wide range of assets: from industrial machinery and transport equipment to IT infrastructure, medical equipment, renewable energy assets, and even real estate in certain structures,” says Isabelle Roussel.
The key requirement? The asset must retain sufficient economic value to serve as collateral. This is precisely why leasing is particularly well suited for innovative investments and growth projects.
For many companies, this is one of the biggest advantages. “Depending on the structure, leasing may remain off the balance sheet, which can have a positive impact on financial ratios and borrowing capacity,” emphasizes Isabelle Roussel. In addition, costs are spread over the duration of the lease, ensuring better alignment between costs and revenues and avoiding heavy upfront investments.
“Leasing can also offer tax advantages, such as accelerated cost deductions in the first year under certain conditions,” adds Xavier Brems.
From a VAT perspective, the key benefit lies in cash management.
“The company does not have to pay the full amount of VAT up front. It is the leasing company that pays it to the supplier. The customer then repays it in instalments through their regular lease payments,” explains Xavier Brems.
This is particularly advantageous for companies that need to wait for VAT refunds or cannot fully recover VAT. The result: less pressure on working capital and no need for peak financing when investing.
In collaboration with their accountant or advisor, companies can determine which structure best fits their specific situation, based on:
“Leasing enables companies to invest without putting pressure on their liquidity,” says Isabelle Roussel.
This keeps financial resources available for operational growth. Companies gain speed and flexibility:
This makes leasing particularly suitable for companies in a growth phase or with ambitious investment plans.
"},"title":"Investing without slowing down growth"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Today, leasing is much more than a financing method. It is a strategic tool that helps businesses grow without disrupting their financial balance.
By making investments more accessible, supporting cash flow, and optimizing the balance sheet, leasing clearly adds value in an environment where flexibility is key.
Combined with strong advice from accountants and financial experts, leasing becomes a true growth accelerator.
| In short |
|---|
|
"},"title":"Conclusion: a smart choice for sustainable growth"},{"componentType":"cta","textLink":{"text":"Your online leasing in just a few clicks","url":"https://ebanking.ing.be/banking/instant-lease"}}]},"hasMacro":false,"id":"95c4cd36-418c-4df0-93c8-b61f7a01942e","localeString":"en-GB","mainHeaderZone":{"backLink":{"textLink":{"text":"Financing: leasing & credit","url":"/en/business/financing"}},"componentType":"editorialHeader","coreHeader":{"body":"Many companies instinctively associate leasing with cars. In reality, it is a much broader financing tool, with a direct impact on growth and financial flexibility. Today, businesses need to keep investing while maintaining control over their resources. Leasing helps strike that balance. \r\n\r\nTo make this more tangible, we spoke with Isabelle Roussel, Senior Zone Manager at ING Lease Belgium, and Xavier Brems, Tax Manager at ING Lease Belgium.","title":"Using leasing smartly for strong performance and sustainable growth!"},"date":"2026-05-19","readingTime":5},"publishDate":"2026-06-19T16:59:01.514+02:00"}}