Unconfirmed, But from Reliable Source
Any Direct Comments Will Be Appreciated

“SLR Equipment Finance laid off the majority of their employees this week. 18 total were affected including executives. After announcing a new CEO the next day, they slashed the workforce. Employees were told this was due to a significant restructuring and reorganization of the business. Killed all approvals and not funding signed contracts.”

www.slrequipmentfinance.com

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New Hires/Promotions in the Leasing Business
and Related Industries

Christopher Gouskos was hired as Senior Vice President, Business Development, Gibraltar Business Capital, Chicago, Illinois. He is located in Atlanta, Georgia. Previously, he was Managing Director, Originations Partner, White Oak Commercial Finance (September, 2015 - April, 2025).
Full Bio:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-gouskos-9819b65/details/experience/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-gouskos-9819b65/  

John Heist, Jr. hired as Vice President Syndications, Dext Capital,  Lake Oswego, Oregon.  He is located in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Previously, he was Senior Director, Gordon Brothers (October, 2023 - November, 2024); National Syndication Senior Manager for Productions and Solutions, Toyota Industries Commercial Finance (March, 2021 - June, 2023); Director of Capital Markets, Equify, LLC (September, 2019 - August, 2020); Vice President, Syndications, Summit Funding Group, Inc. (September, 2011 - September, 2019). Full Bio:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnheist/details/experience/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnheist/

Marty Klees, Senior Vice President, Risk & Operations, is now retired from GreatAmerica Financial Services, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. "I'm happy to share that I'm retiring after an incredible 30 years with GreatAmerica Financial Services.” Full Bio:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marty-klees-9b19208/details/experience/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marty-klees-9b19208

Scott Lipka was hired as Senior Vice President, Credit and Syndications, One Point Capital, West Chester, Pennsylvania, where he is located. Previously, he was Senior Business Development Manager, Trio Capital (December, 2024 - April, 2025). Full Bio:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-lipka-86923912/details/experience/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-lipka-86923912/

Kayla Perlinger, CLFP, was hired as Vice President, Syndications,  AP Equipment Finance,  Bend, Oregon. Previously she was at Oakmont Capital Services, starting May, 2018 as Syndication Manager, promoted Vice President, Syndications (July, 2009 - March 2025); Stearns Bank, N.A.,  starting October, 2011, Credit Analyst, promoted October, 2014, Senior Syndication Analyst/Lead Credit Analyst, promoted Broker Relations Supervisor/Sales Analyst (December, 2017 - April, 2018).
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-perlinger/

Heather Sterling was hired as AVP-Collections, North Mill Equipment Finance LLC, Norwalk, Connecticut.  She is located in Windsor, Colorado. Previously, she was Accounts Receivable Manager, Pawnee Leasing Corporation (May, 2008 - April, 2025 - 17 Years).
https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-s-12a58821a/

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Targeted Lending Expands Senior Credit Facility
With Wells Fargo Capital Finance to $75 Million

Targeted Lending Co., LLC, a leading force in the equipment finance industry, is pleased to announce the expansion of its senior credit facility with Wells Fargo Capital Finance to $75 million.

Michael Philbin, CFO of Targeted Lending Co., LLC., said, "This increase, along with our strong capital structure, reflects Targeted Lending's financial stability and ambitious growth trajectory.

Stewart Hayes, Managing Director at Wells Fargo Capital Finance said, "We value our relationship with Targeted Lending, and are pleased to support them with the additional capital they need as they continue to grow."

Targeted Lending Co., LLC specializes in equipment financing solutions, offering loans of up to $250,000 for essential business equipment and vehicles. Through its Originator-centric model, the company provides a commonsense credit strategy and a suite of advanced tools, enabling Originators to maintain full control over their transactions.

Brian Gallo, CEO of Targeted Lending Co., LLC, said, "We appreciate Wells Fargo's continued support as we capitalize on the industry's gap in strategic funding for small-ticket equipment loans. This expansion strengthens our commitment to helping businesses access the capital they need to grow."

For more information, interested parties and Originators can contact Targeted Lending Co., LLC at rhazard@targetedlending.com

Owners Bank and One Team Capital
Partner to Benefit Small Businesses

Middletown, Connecticut, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Owners Bank,  a division of Liberty Bank, a $8 billion asset-sized mutual bank headquartered in Middletown, Connecticut announced today a strategic partnership with OneTeam Capital, based in New Jersey.  This partnership aims to provide small businesses with seamless and affordable access to business working capital through a dedicated digital platform.   

Owners Bank launched its lending product suite in July 2023 to cater specifically to the evolving needs of small business owners. The bank offers a range of business focused financial products including term loans, lines of credit, and small business credit cards featuring a rewards program. Owners Bank also offers competitive high-rate business checking and savings accounts and small business specific tools like electronic invoicing and expense itemization to help any small business succeed.

Erik Nilsen, SVP Digital Strategic Partnerships of Owners Bank, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with OneTeam Capital, stating, “The partnership with OneTeam Capital aligns perfectly with Owners Bank's mission to support and empower small businesses. As business owners juggle multiple responsibilities, we aim to simplify the loan process and offer competitive rates and lending products to fuel their growth.

"OneTeam Capital has a wide, growing network of providers that need help getting their clients financing. Through our partnership, we will provide that to the OneTeam Capital customer base.”

"Our partnership with Owners Bank has strengthened our product portfolio by enhancing our bank-level offerings to our strategic partner network. The transparency, fast decision-making, competitive APR, and overall synergy these products provide are invaluable. We are particularly excited to share this with partners in the equipment financing space, as the Owners product suite is a versatile complement to traditional secured financing options," said Matthew Sapnar, President of OneTeam Capital.

Both organizations share a strong commitment to helping SMBs secure the most effective lending solutions.  "This is a welcome alternative to the Merchant Cash Advance (MCA) lending," Matthew continued. "Owners Bank's product diversification and dedication to exceptional customer service aligns perfectly with our mission."   

About Owners Bank
Owners Bank is all business, no BS. A new digital bank launched by Liberty Bank, one of the most established and innovative banks in the country, Owners Bank was created specifically to provide digital banking services tailored to the unique needs of small business owners. It is designed to bring a high-tech, high-touch approach to small business banking through a suite of digital apps and banking services including deposit accounts, credit cards, and lending. The company’s U.S.-based Business Banking Agents are specialists in small business banking and are available to offer solid advice via phone, email, or chat on our website or mobile app. Owners Bank is currently available to businesses in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. Owners Bank is a division of Liberty Bank. Member FDIC. To learn more, visit www.ownersbank.com.

About OneTeam Capital
OneTeam Capital is committed to supporting small businesses by offering access to premier financing solutions.  As an industry-leading marketplace, OneTeam Capital specializes in connecting our clients, affiliates, centers of influence (COIs), and independent sales organizations (ISOs) across the country with high-quality financial products. Mathew Sapnar, matthew.sapnar@oneteamcapital.com.

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Balboa Capital Available Position
Program Manager II- Equipment Broker Sales

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Cash Reserves are the Number One Solution
for Main Street Financial Challenges
by Bob Coleman
Coleman Report

One of the best small business Trend and Outlook reports is produced by the Federal Reserve Consortium of 12 Banks. This year’s report is no different and contains a number of insightful statistics to help you understand the current economic environment for small businesses.

The report is included in full and I will highlight significant trends over the course of the next month.

Today’s focus is on the breakdown of how Main Street businesses respond to financial challenges.

The top responses were to draw cash from personal resources and cash reserves:

• Used personal funds: 55%
• Used cash reserves: 51%
• Raised prices: 48%
• Borrowed money: 38%
• Cut staff hours and expenses: 36%
• Made a late payment or did not pay debt: 24%

The demand argument in small business lending:

59% of small businesses on Main Street sought some type of financing in the last 12 months.

Use of proceeds:

• Working capital: 56%
• Expansion or business acquisition: 46%
• Borrowing money for future credit needs: 40%
• Equipment: 27%
• Debt refinance: 27%

Download Federal Reserve Banks' Report

https://colemanreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2025-Report-on-Employer-Firms-1.pdf

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Rinaldi Advisory Services Strengthens Team with the addition of
Edward Castagna, ASA, CEA, InPlace Auction LLC, as a Strategic Alliance Partner

Houston, TX.– Rinaldi Advisory Services® (“RAS®”) is proud to announce Edward Castagna, ASA, CEA, President of InPlace Auction LLC, as its newest Strategic Alliance Partner. With over 30 years of industry experience, Castagna brings unparalleled expertise in asset management, remarketing, and recovery services to further enhance RAS’s capabilities in supporting equipment finance companies.
In an ever-evolving industry, efficient asset management and liquidation strategies are critical for maximizing portfolio performance and mitigating risk. Through this strategic partnership, RAS® and InPlace Auction LLC will offer equipment finance professionals a streamlined, data-driven approach to equipment disposition, valuation, and recovery solutions.

Bob Rinaldi, CLFP, President of RAS,  said, “The ability to effectively manage, value, and liquidate assets is a crucial component of risk management in equipment finance.

“Edward’s deep experience and high impact approach bring tremendous value to our clients, ensuring they optimize their asset recovery strategies & portfolio performance.”

Delivering Value-Driven Asset Solutions for Equipment Finance Firms
This partnership will provide RAS clients with:

• Expert Asset Valuation & Remarketing – Access to cutting-edge auction and remarketing strategies for maximum asset recovery.
• End-to-End Asset Disposition Services – A seamless process for liquidating repossessed or off-lease equipment.
• Industry-Leading Auction Technology – Innovative online auction solutions tailored for equipment finance companies.
• Customized Strategies – Tailored solutions to help financial institutions, independent lessors, and OEMs improve recovery rates and minimize asset disposition costs.

Edward Castagna, President of InPlace Auction LLC, said, “Joining forces with RAS allows us to extend our expertise in asset remarketing and auctions to a broader network of equipment finance professionals.

“Together, we will provide the tools, knowledge, and execution strategies that help lenders and lessors achieve stronger financial outcomes.”

About InPlace Auction LLC
InPlace Auction LLC is a premier provider of asset remarketing, valuation, and auction services, specializing in commercial and industrial equipment. With a reputation for innovative auction strategies and transparent processes, InPlace Auction LLC helps financial institutions, lessors, and businesses efficiently liquidate assets while maximizing returns.

About Rinaldi Advisory Services Rinaldi Advisory Services® (RAS) is the leading advisory firm dedicated to independent leasing companies, OEMs, and financial institutions. With decades of industry experience, RAS provides strategic guidance, market insights, and business development solutions that help clients navigate complex industry challenges and achieve sustained success.
For more information about this partnership and how it can benefit your organization, visit www.RinaldiAdvisory.com or contact Liz@RinaldiAdvisory.com

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Leasing 101 Added To
Financial and Sales Training List

Leasing 101 is led by Bill Bosco, a consultant with 50 years’ experience specializing in the equipment leasing industry with lessors, lessees, trade associations, lawyers and software firms as clients. Bill is a CPA and CFP, both inactive. He is a frequent speaker and author of articles on leasing issues.

These individuals act as a consultant in 75% or more of their main business, actually training staff or individuals of a leasing company. These are not schools or franchisors, which can be viewed by clicking here.

Several hold classes, and most will travel to their client's premise.

Many of the associations also have financial and sales training classes for their members and non-members with a higher fee: http://leasingnews.org/associations.htm

Second Column: YCS - Year Company Started | YELB - Years in equipment Leasing Business

News Briefs

Shoppers may need to buy these items
    quickly before Trump’s tariffs kick in
https://nypost.com/2025/04/03/business/shoppers-may-need-to-buy-these-items-quickly-before-trumps-tariffs-kick-in/

Stocks plunge as Trump’s tariffs
    spark global trade war
https://www.cnn.com/politics/live-news/trump-tariffs-news-04-03-25/index.html

Equipment stocks drop
    as tariff woes shake industry
https://equipmentfinancenews.com/news/dealer-operations/equipment-stocks-drop-as-tariff-woes-shake-industry/

Apple Plunges 9%
    Leading a Tech Sell-Off
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/03/business/economy/apple-stock-tech-selloff.html

Mortgage rates tick lower
    for second week in a row
https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/mortgage-rates-4-3-25

Death toll rises as devastating spring storms
    batter the South and Midwest
https://www.npr.org/2025/04/03/g-s1-58088/deadly-spring-storms-continue-to-batter-the-south-and-midwest

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Steve Jobs’s billionaire widow is making waves
 in the real estate market;  she has single-handedly bought    
   more homes than the Apple co-founder did in his entire life
https://luxurylaunches.com/celebrities/laurene-powell-jobs-making-waves-in-luxury-real-estate-04032025.php 

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Sports Briefs

The A's opener in Sacramento was an absolute disaster
https://www.sfgate.com/athletics/article/as-opener-sacramento-complete-utter-disaster-20252911.php

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California News Briefs

The most expensive house in America just
     hit the market again
https://www.sfgate.com/la/article/most-expensive-house-listing-hits-market-again-20253245.php

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Gimme that Wine

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJnQoi8DSE8

How a rare pink wine grape found a home in Napa Valley
https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/napa/kazumi-wines-koshu-napa/

How Costco's Kirkland Signature Brand Became a    
   Powerhouse   - Wall Street Journal, paywall
https://www.wsj.com/business/retail/how-costcos-kirkland-signature-brand-became-a-powerhouse-29a8132d

Celebrating 50 years of the Napa Valley Grapegrowers - To demonstrate this commitment, NVG and the Napa Valley
 vintners offer the annual Afternoon in the Vineyards,
     to be held on Saturday, April 12, from 1:00 to 3:00pm.
https://www.winebusiness.com/news/article/300195

Castle Rock 2022 Columbia Valley Merlot Featured with
   91 Point Rating  in James Suckling's Washington 2025
     Tasting Report: Winemaking Without Compromise
https://www.winebusiness.com/news/article/300211

Yountville Art, Sip & Stroll - Yountville Arts presents the 13th  Annual Art,   Sip & Stroll, on Saturday, May 17, 2025,
      from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
https://www.winebusiness.com/news/article/300197