Business owners seeking financing solutions often come across both “Direct Capital” and “CIT” names in connection with equipment loans, working capital, and other funding options. If you’ve wondered, “Is Direct Capital now CIT?”—this article offers a clear explanation of the history, merger details, and what this means for existing and prospective clients in 2025.
Understanding the background and integration of these two financial entities can help you make informed decisions when applying for commercial financing.
What Was Direct Capital?
Direct Capital was founded in 1993 as an online equipment financing company focused on simplifying the loan process for small and midsize businesses. Known for its digital-first approach, Direct Capital utilized proprietary technology to speed up loan approvals and funding, carving a niche as a convenient financing alternative to banks.
Over nearly two decades, Direct Capital developed a reputation for:
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Quick and flexible equipment financing
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User-friendly online loan application platform
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Serving a diverse range of industries with tailored loan products
What Is CIT Group?
CIT Group Inc., established in 1908, has long been a major player in the commercial finance and banking space. Operating in asset-based lending, equipment financing, and factoring, CIT is a publicly traded company listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CIT). The group has a strong financial backing and vast experience in serving small to mid-sized business markets.
The Acquisition: Direct Capital Joins CIT
In 2014, CIT Group acquired Direct Capital for $640 million in a strategic move to enhance its small business financing portfolio and leverage Direct Capital’s advanced digital lending platform, LendEdge.
The merger brought the best of both worlds: CIT’s financial stability and diversified product range combined with Direct Capital’s modern online lending technology.
What Does “Is Direct Capital Now CIT?” Really Mean?
Post-acquisition, Direct Capital ceased operating as a completely independent brand and was integrated under the CIT Group umbrella. However, instead of dissolving the Direct Capital identity entirely, the company maintained it as a division, commonly referred to as CIT Direct Capital or CIT Bank Direct Capital.
The “Direct Capital” name still appears for branding continuity but reflects CIT’s ownership and joint services.
How Has This Merger Benefited Clients?
1. Expanded Product Offerings
The merger allowed CIT to broaden its suite of financing products to small and medium enterprises, including:
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Equipment financing
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Working capital loans
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Franchise financing
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Vendor financing
Clients gain access to a wider range of competitive financing solutions aligned with their unique business needs.
2. Enhanced Digital Lending Technology
Clients of CIT Direct Capital benefit from the LendEdge platform, an intuitive online system for loan application, approval, and management. This digital-first approach reduces paperwork and accelerates funding timelines.
3. Stronger Financial Backing
Operating under CIT Group offers borrowers the assurance that their lender is financially sound and regulated by banking authorities. CIT’s sizable capital resources mean that more loan requests can be accommodated reliably.
4. Continued Customer Service Excellence
While leveraging CIT’s resources, CIT Direct Capital maintains a customer-centric approach, providing dedicated support to businesses throughout their financing lifecycle.
Read More: CIT Bank Direct Capital Financing Options: Compare Rates and Terms in 2025
Final Thoughts: Navigating Financing with CIT Direct Capital
With the acquisition complete, Direct Capital’s legacy lives on as an integral part of CIT’s comprehensive business financing services. This union combines cutting-edge technology with institutional strength, aiming to help businesses access capital faster and more efficiently than traditional lenders.
For small and medium-sized business owners exploring loan options, understanding this merger ensures clarity when engaging with CIT Direct Capital and CIT Bank Direct Capital for funding.
