Apple’s next partnership could make its gadgets more affordable

By

apple store
Apple products could be more affordable with cheaper finance.
Photo: Apple

Cupertino is in talks with Goldman Sachs over a deal that could mean cheaper finance on Apple products, according to a new report. The investment bank already raised billions of dollars for Apple, but sources warn a deal remains far from complete.

Apple already has finance partners that help make even its most expensive products more affordable. Some of them charge zero interest, while others, such as Barclaycard, can charge as much as 28.24 percent. There could be another option soon.

Apple in talks with Goldman Sachs

Goldman Sachs wants to team with Apple as it looks to expand its consumer lending business. “The Wall Street firm is in talks to offer financing to shoppers buying phones, watches and other gadgets from Apple,” reports The Wall Street Journalciting people familiar with the matter.

“Customers purchasing a $1,000 iPhone X could take out a loan from Goldman instead of charging it to credit cards that often carry high interest rates.” However, “talks between the tech giant and the investment bank are continuing and could still fall apart,” the report warns.

With little to tell at this point, it’s unclear whether a Goldman Sachs deal would replace Apple’s existing finance partners, or if it could lead to an additional option for consumers. There is a suggestion, however, that the talks involve “some form of upgrade program.”

Apple already offers an iPhone Upgrade Program through a partnership with Citizens Financial Group. It allows customers to spread the cost of their new handset over 24 months and upgrade every without ever having to fork out a large upfront fee.

“It is unclear whether anything will change with the handling of the outstanding Citizens loans,” WSJ adds.

The deal could be good for Apple and Goldman Sachs

It’s clear why Apple and Goldman Sachs would make a good partnership. More affordable finance would surely lead to an increase in sales of Apple’s more expensive products, while Goldman could stand to make billions from its Apple loans.

And with the cost of Apple devices climbing every year, customers may need finance now more than ever. You’ll need at least $1,000 to get your hands on iPhone X, while the new iMac Pro starts at a whopping $5,000.

Newsletters

Daily round-ups or a weekly refresher, straight from Cult of Mac to your inbox.

  • The Weekender

    The week's best Apple news, reviews and how-tos from Cult of Mac, every Saturday morning. Our readers say: "Thank you guys for always posting cool stuff" -- Vaughn Nevins. "Very informative" -- Kenly Xavier.