Microsoft is lowering the threshold for US businesses wanting to borrow its cash to pay for software and hardware purchases.

Previously deals had to be worth more than $10,000 but that has now been lowered to just $3,000. US customers can get 36-month loans for some purchases - software, hardware and services - and can defer payment for 90 days.

Microsoft Finance says its research shows small businesses are "intensive credit card users" most prefer to use third-party finance for IT purchases which typically cost between $3,000 and $10,000.

It is not thought the company plans to extend similar largesse to its UK customers.

More details on Microsoft.com here. ®