Supply chain disruptions
Geopolitical tensions and ongoing logistical challenges have disrupted global supply chains, limiting the availability of key components.
What’s happening: The surge in IT hardware prices
The worlds' supply of microchips and RAM is struggling to keep up with demand, causing IT hardware prices to rise sharply across global markets. Organisations with complex technology environments are seeing significant increases in the cost of servers, laptops, and other critical infrastructure. Major laptop brands have already publicly estimated price hikes of 15% to 30%.
This trend is expected to continue, with industry analysts forecasting further volatility and extended lead times for new equipment. Forecasts for 2026 indicate that average PC prices are expected to continue rising as these pressures persist.
Why are prices increasing?
Microchips and RAM are the backbone of modern IT infrastructure, powering everything from servers and laptops to cloud platforms and advanced analytics. Their critical role means that any disruption in supply or spike in demand has an immediate and significant impact on hardware availability and pricing. Currently, the cost of IT hardware is increasing due to:
Surging demand
The rapid adoption of AI and the increase in demand for AI data centre infrastructure has driven unprecedented demand for microchips and RAM.
Production constraints
Manufacturers have shifted their production to produce HBM high-bandwidth memory over DDR5 ram which are currently used in notebook and PCs, leading to shortages and higher costs for memory chips and processors.
The impact on businesses
Increased IT spend
Businesses are paying higher prices for technology, putting businesses at risk of overspend. The price increases are expected to continue in the future.
Budget uncertainty
Unpredictable hardware costs make it difficult for IT and finance leaders to plan and allocate resources.
Procurement delays
Longer lead times can disrupt project timelines and hinder innovation.
Rising hardware costs and supply delays are putting significant pressure on IT budgets and refresh timelines. We are supporting our customers by engaging early and securing hardware pricing now with their preferred suppliers to protect their budgets and refresh their technology as planned
Alex Terrone, Head of Corporate - Australia, CHG-MERIDIAN
How to protect the IT budget
To mitigate financial and operational risks, organisations need to take a long-term and strategic approach to acquiring and managing their technology. Leading businesses are already forecasting their future requirements and engaging an IT leasing partner to lock-in hardware prices. As price tags are only expected to increase over 2026, locking-in today’s price will protect their organisation from ongoing market volatility.
From a financial perspective, leasing also enables organisations to spread the cost of technology over the useful life of the asset, improving cash flow and budget management while avoiding large upfront investments. Fixed, predictable payments enhance financial planning for IT, finance, and procurement teams, helping them avoid unexpected cost spikes.
How do you achieve best practice? Leasing supported by an asset management system will enhances both cost and asset transparency. As a result, forecasting is easier and organisations are better equipped to make informed decisions about future technology requirements.
Experts featured in this article
Alex Terrone
Head of Corporate - Australia
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