Bloomberg Talks Klarna CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski Talks IPO Debut
Sep 10, 2025
Sebastian Siemiatkowski, CEO of Klarna, reveals the company's exciting transition into the public market with a successful IPO. He dives into how integrating generative AI has redefined success metrics and enhanced customer engagement. Siemiatkowski discusses the competitive landscape of 'buy now, pay later' services and how Klarna’s new banking license positions them against traditional banks. The conversation highlights the challenges and innovations shaping the future of retail banking.
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Investor Loved The Card
- Sebastian recalls an investor who only wanted Klarna's card after meeting him on the roadshow.
- That exchange showed strong product love and simple demand for a physical card.
Targeting Card-Averse Consumers
- Klarna targets "self-aware avoiders" who prefer debit and hate revolving credit card debt.
- The company sees this segment as 20% of U.S. households and is scaling with 26 million U.S. users.
IPO For Liquidity, Not Cash
- Go public when liquidity and efficiency for long-term private shareholders matter more than capital needs.
- Use public markets to onboard new long-term investors while keeping most insiders invested.