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Keynote

Capital on the Road: Financing Canada’s Commercial Fleets

calendar_today February 10, 2026

Effective fleet financing for small operators requires a departure from one-size-fits-all lending models toward a more nuanced, data-driven assessment of risk. As market volatility fluctuates, the ability to accurately price risk for mid-sized portfolios has become a critical skill set for modern commercial lenders. This session dives into how industry leaders are moving beyond traditional credit scores to look at the actual operational health of a business. By prioritizing fleet financing for small operators through the lens of real-time performance, institutions can provide the necessary capital for expansion even during challenging economic cycles.

The technical core of the discussion centers on how multi-vehicle facilities are structured and the specific role that telematics and maintenance data play in modern underwriting. For those managing fleet financing for small operators, the integration of portfolio analytics allows for a granular view of asset utilization and depreciation. This transparency is vital when regional conditions or sudden economic shifts threaten to impact a borrower’s repayment capacity. Understanding these sophisticated tools ensures that fleet financing for small operators remains sustainable, allowing lenders to support their customers through both rapid growth and inevitable downturns. By mastering these underwriting nuances, financial institutions can keep their capital deployed efficiently while minimizing the threat of default. Experts in fleet financing for small operators emphasize that the future of the sector lies in this intersection of technology and tailored financial structures.

  • Analysis of how telematics and real-time maintenance data are replacing traditional static audits in the risk assessment process.
  • Insights into structuring multi-vehicle credit facilities that provide flexibility for fleet expansion while protecting lender interests.
  • Evaluation of the impact of regional economic cycles on the creditworthiness and operational resilience of mid-sized fleet businesses.

Watch the full panel discussion above to gain professional insights into optimizing fleet financing for small operators in today’s competitive market.


Speakers
  • Danielle Butler Partner, Financial Services Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP Moderator
  • Heather Heggie Managing Director Volvo Financial Services Speaker
  • Goetz Johanning CEO Daimler Truck Financial Services Canada Speaker
  • Heath Valkenburg EVP & CFO Element Fleet Management Speaker