Digital Contracting Adoption Decreased Slightly From Previous Quarter Most Likely Driven By Business Uncertainty in Today’s Markets

New York, NY, April 29, 2025 — Wolters Kluwer, a global leader in professional information, software solutions and services, announced today new first quarter analysis from its Equipment Lease Finance Digital Transformation Index, a key resource that tracks the rate at which equipment lessors and service providers are seeing growth in the evolution from paper-based finance back-office processes to digital. Click here to see the full data report. 

According to the Index, the rate of adoption for digital contracting in Q1 decreased 4.5% compared to the fourth quarter of 2024. The Index increased 7.3% compared to Q1 2024, and it is also important to note that the moving, four-year trend continues to show digital adoption growth at 25.5% dating back to Q1 of 2021. 

The slight quarterly decrease is most likely reflective of the current uncertain business climate. Kiplinger reported that surveys of business uncertainty spiked to record or near-record levels in February and that the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Uncertainty Index rose to its second-highest level ever, behind only last October’s reading. This uncertainty has had the effect of dampening the business outlook and turning businesses to be more cautious about plans to expand, hire or invest in new capital equipment. 

"In light of the recent decline in business confidence due to market uncertainties, it is more important than ever to continue digitizing back-office workflows and processes,” said Eric Capehart, Associate Director of Market Strategy for Wolters Kluwer’s Digital Lending Solutions. “Despite the market challenges, digitization remains a key driver for operational efficiency, cost reduction, and enhanced decision-making. Even with uncertainty in the market, businesses must remain committed to investing in their future operations. By adopting digital transformation, companies can better manage uncertainties and set themselves up for long-term success." 

To learn more and to access additional data insights from the Wolters Kluwer Equipment Lease Finance Digital Transformation Index, click here. 

About Wolters Kluwer 

Wolters Kluwer (EURONEXT: WKL) is a global leader in information, software solutions and services for professionals in healthcare; tax and accounting; financial and corporate compliance; legal and regulatory; corporate performance and ESG. We help our customers make critical decisions every day by providing expert solutionsthat combine deep domain knowledge with technology and services. 

Wolters Kluwer reported 2024 annual revenues of €5.9 billion. The group serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries, and employs approximately 21,600 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands.  

For more information, visit www.wolterskluwer.com, follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram. 

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