The following question and answer by Sheikh Yusuf Talal DeLorenzo attendees of the Dow Jones University Courses on Islamic Investement.
Question:: I would like to know if it is halal to lease from a kufar financialinstitution?
Answer: If a lease can be structured in a way that conforms with Shari`ah principles (as in an ijarah contract), it will be lawful, regardless of whether the lease originates from a conventional financial institution or otherwise. Many Islamic banks, investors, and financial institutions participate in leasing operations that comply with Shari`ah principles and yet involve conventional financial institutions.