Breaking Down SG&A Expenses: Apple Inc. vs SAP SE

A Tale of Two Giants: Apple Inc. vs SAP SE

In the ever-evolving landscape of global business, understanding the financial strategies of industry leaders is crucial. This analysis delves into the Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses of two titans: Apple Inc. and SAP SE, from 2014 to 2023. Over this decade, Apple Inc. has consistently outpaced SAP SE in SG&A spending, reflecting its aggressive market strategies and expansive retail operations. Notably, Apple's SG&A expenses surged by over 100% from 2014 to 2023, peaking at approximately $26 billion in 2024. In contrast, SAP SE's expenses grew by about 88% during the same period, reaching nearly $11 billion in 2022. This disparity highlights Apple's robust investment in marketing and administration, crucial for maintaining its competitive edge. However, SAP's strategic focus on efficiency and innovation is evident, as it manages to achieve significant growth with relatively lower SG&A costs.