In CIMA F3, finance leases are analysed as a form of debt financing and are compared directly with bank loans when evaluating long-term funding options. The syllabus (under Financing Decisions and Leasing vs Buying) explains that a finance lease is economically similar to borrowing to purchase an asset, because the lessee assumes substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership.
Option B is correct because one key advantage of a finance lease over a bank loan is that the lessor retains legal ownership of the asset, which provides strong security for the lender. As a result, the lessor’s risk is lower than that of a bank providing an unsecured or partially secured loan. CIMA F3 study guidance highlights that this reduced risk can allow the lessor to offer more favourable interest rates or financing terms than a conventional bank loan.
The other options are incorrect under current accounting and financial strategy principles:
A is incorrect because finance leases are not off-balance sheet. Under IFRS 16 (examined in F3), finance leases must be recognised on the statement of financial position, increasing both assets and liabilities and therefore affecting gearing.
C is incorrect because tax depreciation (capital allowances) normally remain with the legal owner, the lessor. These benefits are not “passed on” directly, although they may be reflected indirectly in lease pricing.
D is incorrect because maintenance is a feature of operating leases, not finance leases. In a finance lease, the lessee is responsible for maintenance and insurance.
