Apple Introduces New Leasing Strategy with Klarna Partnership
Apple Inc (AAPL) is shifting its device financing strategy toward leasing, aiming to improve affordability as hardware costs rise. The new Apple Upgrade program, backed by Klarna Group plc (KLAR), allows customers to lease iPhones, Apple Watches, Macs, and iPads with options to upgrade or return devices at the end of the term. Counterpoint Research analyst Maurice Klaehne suggests this strategy could help maintain device sales volumes while encouraging users to opt for higher-priced models. The partnership also limits Apple's credit exposure by having Klarna manage financing relationships, reducing balance sheet risk as memory shortages and rising component prices push up product costs. The upcoming iPhone 18 cycle will be a key test of whether leasing can sustain demand amid potential price increases and reduced carrier promotions. Apple stock edged higher in premarket trading despite mixed performance among tech stocks.
Topics: Apple device financing Klarna leasing strategy