Operational Costs Compared: SG&A Analysis of Fiserv, Inc. and Block, Inc.

A Decade of SG&A: Fiserv vs. Block

In the ever-evolving landscape of financial technology, operational efficiency is paramount. Over the past decade, Fiserv, Inc. and Block, Inc. have demonstrated contrasting trajectories in their Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses. From 2014 to 2023, Fiserv's SG&A expenses surged by approximately 575%, peaking in 2023. Meanwhile, Block, Inc. experienced a staggering increase of over 1,900% in the same period, reflecting its rapid expansion and aggressive market strategies.

Key Insights

• 2014-2018: Both companies maintained a steady growth in SG&A, with Fiserv consistently outspending Block by a factor of 4 to 5.
• 2019-2023: A pivotal shift occurred as Block's expenses accelerated, closing the gap with Fiserv. By 2023, Block's SG&A expenses reached 64% of Fiserv's, highlighting its significant operational scaling.

This analysis underscores the dynamic nature of fintech operations and the strategic decisions driving these industry giants.