Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often lack access to the digital tools that larger companies use to transform their operations. With constrained budgets, they face challenges in acquiring, integrating, and managing new software, hardware, and technologies.
Without the right tools, SMEs struggle to digitise workflows, collect and analyse customer data, and automate repetitive tasks. This blocker hampers their ability to keep up with the rapid pace of digital change and innovation in their industries.
However, with digital transformation comes a different set of challenges, particularly regarding its environmental footprint. According to the World Economic Forum, “if [e-waste management] is left unchecked, [its impact] could undermine the worldwide efforts to contain global temperature rise within 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2050.” With the increasing volume of e-waste, both imported and domestic, there is a growing demand for effective e-waste management to support a sustainable transition to digital technologies.
There is a pressing need for a solution that can offset the costs of keeping outdated or trading in new technologies while minimising the environmental damage brought by digital transformation. For the SMEs side, staying on top of the competition while achieving sustainable success is essential, and there is a massive opportunity for a robust solution that can balance both.
Tech leasing as a solution for SMEs
Tech leasing solutions can significantly benefit SMEs in Singapore by providing access to the latest innovations and driving digital transformation while also supporting sustainability efforts. With limited capital allocations available, leasing offers a cost-effective alternative, allowing businesses to acquire cutting-edge tools without the hefty upfront costs. This enables SMEs to enhance productivity and streamline operations tailored to their specific requirements.
Apart from its accessibility, leasing provides flexibility, allowing SMEs to upgrade to newer, more efficient technologies as they become available. This adaptability ensures that businesses can continually leverage the latest advancements, fostering innovation and growth.
Moreover, leasing agreements often include maintenance and support, reducing the operational burdens on SMEs and ensuring optimal performance of the leased equipment.
From a sustainability perspective, leasing promotes the responsible use of resources. Instead of discarding outdated equipment, leasing encourages a circular economy where technology can be refurbished, reused, or recycled. This helps reduce electronic waste and the environmental impact of constant technology upgrades.
Additionally, newer leased technologies are typically more energy-efficient, contributing to lower energy consumption and carbon footprints. In Singapore’s push for sustainability and digital innovation, leasing offers SMEs a pathway to growth while aligning with environmental goals.
Speaking with Lionel Chiong, Head of GB NXT, he underscores their commitment that “Beyond performance, a commitment to sustainability is integral. We offer leasing solutions that align with environmentally responsible practices.”
Also read: GB Helios: Empowering SMEs with tailored and innovative financial solutions
Discover GB Helios’ tailored tech leasing solutions
To successfully provide the right tech leasing solutions, a deep understanding of Singapore’s local business needs and challenges is crucial. As a Singaporean company, GB Helios’ is able to craft tailored leasing solutions, as they believe in building a sustainability partnership with their stakeholders.
This balanced approach—leveraging innovation while prioritising sustainability—supports businesses in achieving their objectives while contributing positively to the broader community and environment. Drawing on over four decades of experience in distribution and leasing, GB Helios’ expertise is reflected in its design to address unique operational goals.
Through GB NXT, one of their flagship initiatives, companies are able to capitalise on three types of tech leasing solutions.
Finance Lease
This finance lease solution offers a comprehensive 100% financing structure, encompassing not just the equipment but also soft costs like software, services, and installation.
Its holistic approach ensures that SMEs will have everything they need to operate efficiently without the financial strain of full upfront payment. At the end of the lease term, there is the flexibility to either return the equipment or opt for purchase, allowing these organisations to make decisions that best suit their evolving needs.
Fair Market Value Lease
The Fair Market Value lease plan is designed for businesses seeking lower monthly repayments. Under this arrangement, GB NXT retains ownership of the equipment, while businesses enjoy the right to use these assets. This plan is particularly advantageous for companies looking to balance their budget without compromising on technology quality. At the end of the lease, companies may return the assets or continue to pay for their use, providing significant flexibility in managing technology resources.
Sell & Leaseback
This program is ideal for businesses with substantial asset acquisitions, offering unique opportunities for owners to improve their cash flow.
Owners can opt to sell their technology to GB NXT, who would eventually lease the assets back. Essentially, SMEs can convert their owned resources into liquid capital while retaining their use.
This is an effective strategy to remove depreciating assets from the balance sheet, which in turn, enhances company’s financial flexibility. With GB NXT, businesses are able to reallocate resources more effectively and focus on core operations.
How GB NXT’s sell & leaseback solution empowers businesses
Financing solutions are available for different types of equipment across a varied set of industries. GB NXT can cater to standard IT equipment, audio and visual equipment, state-of-the-art fitness equipment, medical equipment, diagnostic tools, treatment devices, and other categories that would suit specific requirements and budgets.
Customers and partners alike cite flexibility and accessibility as game-changers that boost sales significantly. Go Circular, a manufacturer and supplier of food waste composting machines, has partnered with GB NXT to help clients access high-quality equipment without the financial burden of full upfront payment.
Benjamin Tan of Go Circular claims that “GB NXT’s seamless process ensures quick approvals and smooth payment terms, making it easier for us to close deals and build long-term relationships with customers.” He adds, “This partnership has opened new doors, allowing us to cater to a broader audience and scale our business in a competitive market. The ability to offer various options has truly given our customers the financial flexibility they need to make informed purchasing decisions.”
Beyond the financial advantages, GB NXT’s tech leasing solutions align with broader sustainability goals, making them an attractive choice for businesses committed to environmental responsibility. Clients like Go Circular not only benefit from enhanced cash flow and sales growth but also take pride in supporting the circular economy. By offering flexible leasing options, GB NXT enables businesses to extend the lifecycle of high-value equipment, reduce digital and electronic waste, and contribute to a more sustainable business ecosystem.
This partnership model underscores the growing demand for financing solutions that go beyond transactions—helping companies scale while reinforcing their commitment to responsible and sustainable business practices.
Also read: Tech SMEs play key role in fuelling Asia’s digital economy boom
Getting started with technology leasing in Singapore
Armed with an understanding of the realities of the Singaporean business landscape, GB NXT believes in empowering local businesses to access cutting-edge technology—tools that help them remain competitive in a fast-evolving marketplace. With their leasing solutions, SMEs are able to limit their digital transformation waste and adopt sustainable growth practices without compromising financial health.
As a result, diverse local businesses are able to support Singapore’s long term digital transformation and sustainability initiatives, ensuring a more positive future.
To find out how GB Helios and GB NXT can help your business, email talktous@gbhelios.com.sg today.
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This article is produced by e27, sponsored by GB Helios.
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Image credit: GB Helios
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About GB Helios
A one-stop financial institution providing not only traditional financing solutions but also innovative enterprise loans in Singapore, all customisable to specific business needs. Today, it is one of the leading non-bank financial institutions to offer one-stop financial solutions – from Factoring, Term Loans, and Business Property Loans to customisable alternative financing solutions such as Embedded Financing, Venture Debt, and Revenue-based Financing. Visit the GB Helios website for more information.
About GB NXT
GB NXT provides flexible and innovative technology leasing solutions designed to help businesses access the latest equipment while optimizing cash flow and sustainability. With tailored financing options, including Finance Lease, Fair Market Value Lease, and Sell & Leaseback, GB NXT empowers companies across various industries to stay competitive without the financial burden of full upfront payments. Visit the GB NXT website for more information.
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