Klarna strikes $6.5 billion loan deal with Elliott funds to boost US push

Core Insights - Klarna plans to sell up to $6.5 billion of loans to Elliott Investment Management over a two-year period to expand its buy-now-pay-later business in the U.S. [1][2] - The agreement allows Klarna to sell a portion of its existing Fair Financing portfolio and transfer newly originated receivables on a rolling basis starting in October [1][2] Group 1: Growth Strategy - Klarna's Chief Financial Officer stated that this agreement is a significant step in their U.S. growth journey, enabling them to reach more consumers seeking fairer payment options [2] - The facility is initially sized at $1 billion, with the potential to originate up to $6.5 billion of loans as repayments occur under a forward flow agreement [2] Group 2: Funding Efficiency - Forward flow agreements are described as a capital-efficient and scalable funding source, allowing Klarna to quickly capitalize on opportunities while expanding its merchant base [3] - Klarna will maintain all consumer-facing functions, including underwriting and servicing, despite the funding arrangement [3] Group 3: Product Popularity - The Fair Financing product allows customers to spread large purchases into fixed monthly installments over longer periods, gaining popularity in the U.S. with a gross merchandise value growth of 244%, compared to 139% global growth for Klarna [4] Group 4: Financial Performance - Klarna exceeded analysts' revenue expectations in its first quarterly report following a significant listing earlier this year [5]