Apple's total debt recently reached a five-year low of $119.1 billion in September 2024. The company's debt fluctuates based on its financial strategies, including investments, share repurchases, and dividend payments.
Understanding Apple's Debt Levels
While Apple is known for its substantial cash reserves, it strategically maintains a significant amount of debt. This debt is often used to fund shareholder returns (like dividends and stock buybacks) and investments, which can be more tax-efficient than repatriating overseas cash.
Looking at recent trends, Apple's total debt has shown fluctuations over the past few years:
- Median Debt: From fiscal years ending September 2020 to 2024, Apple's operated at a median total debt of $123.9 billion.
- Peak Debt: The company's total debt peaked in September 2021, reaching $136.5 billion.
- Current Trend: The latest data indicates a recent low point, with total debt hitting $119.1 billion in September 2024.
Key Debt Figures for Apple
The following table summarizes the key total debt figures for Apple Inc. over the last five years:
| Metric | Amount (in billions) | Period/Date |
|---|---|---|
| 5-Year Low | $119.1 | September 2024 |
| 5-Year Peak | $136.5 | September 2021 |
| Median (2020-2024) | $123.9 | Fiscal Years 2020-2024 |
These figures highlight the dynamic nature of Apple's financial structure and its approach to managing its balance sheet. Understanding these debt levels provides insight into the company's financial health and capital management strategies.
