What is the difference between CapEx and OpEx Models? What are the Pros and Cons of CapEx and OpEx Models? When to use Capex vs Opex? Examples of Opex

What are CapEx and OpEx Models and Which One Should Companies Use?

The capital expenditure (Capex) model and the operational expenditure (Opex) model are two types of financial models that companies use to decide how they fund their operations and capital expenditures. 


Video summary of the article:

What is the difference between CapEx and OpEx Models?

The Capex model is a more traditional technique in which a firm uses loans and equity financing to support its operations and capital expenditures. The Opex model is a more current concept in which a corporation uses operational cash flow to pay its operations and capital expenditures. Capex refers to money spent on long-term assets like land, buildings, or machinery, whereas Opex refers to money spent on day-to-day costs like labor, rent, and utilities.

What are the Pros and Cons of CapEx and OpEx Models?

Both funding types have advantages and disadvantages. Because it does not necessitate taking on debt or selling shares, capex is often regarded as a more solid option to finance expansion. This might be advantageous for businesses that are currently profitable and have a solid balance sheet. Capex can also be utilized to obtain tax deductions.

Opex, on the other hand, is regarded as a more adaptable method of financing expansion. Financing for Opex costs may be easier to get than funding for Capex expenses. Therefore, Opex requires less cash than Capex and can be used for more immediate demands.

Here are few examples of companies that use either the Capex or Opex model:

Examples of companies using the Capex Model:

  • Walmart: Walmart is one of the world’s largest retailers, with over 11,000 stores in 27 countries. They use a Capex model, investing in long-term assets such as property and distribution centers. This has allowed them to expand their operations and reach new markets.
  • Amazon: Amazon is a leading e-commerce company that has used Capex to finance its expansion. The company has invested heavily in warehouses, logistics, and technology.
  • Apple: Apple is a leading technology company that has used Capex to finance its growth. The company has invested heavily in research and development, as well as in manufacturing facilities.

Examples of Companies using the Opex Model:

  • Airbnb: Airbnb is a popular accommodation booking platform that uses an opex model. The company has raised billions of dollars in funding from investors to help grow its business. This has helped Airbnb become one of the leading platforms for booking vacation rentals and other types of accommodation.
  • Amazon: Amazon is one of the world’s largest online retailers. They use an Opex model, investing in short-term assets such as inventory and logistics. This has allowed them to scale their operations and reach new customers.
  • Uber: Uber is a popular ride-hailing service that uses an opex model. The company outsources the funding for its capital expenditure to venture capitalists and other investors. This has allowed Uber to grow quickly and become a leading player in the ride-hailing market.

Summary:

If you didn't pick it up, Amazon is listed in both the Capex and Opex models. This is to illustrate the point that a company is not limited to use one or the other. Depending on the segment and needs of the business, a company can use and switch between the two models.