Apple (AAPL)


Market Price (7/23/2026): $325.82 | Market Cap: $4.8 TrilInvestor Relations Sector: Information Technology | Industry: Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals

Apple (AAPL)


Market Price (7/23/2026): $325.82
Market Cap: $4.8 Tril
Sector: Information Technology
Industry: Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals

Investment Highlights Why It Matters Detailed financial logic regarding cash flow yields vs trend-riding momentum.

0

Attractive operating margins
Op Mgn LTMOperating Margin = Operating Income / Revenue Reflects profitability before taxes and before impact of capital structure (interest payments). is 33%

Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 31%, FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 29%, CFO LTM is 140 Bil, FCF LTM is 129 Bil

Stock buyback support
Stock Buyback 3Y Total is 261 Bil

Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 25%

Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Artificial Intelligence, Autonomous Technologies, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, Show more.

Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is -2.4%, Dist 3Y High is -2.4%

Key risks
AAPL key risks include [1] intense global antitrust scrutiny of its App Store ecosystem, Show more.

0 Attractive operating margins
Op Mgn LTMOperating Margin = Operating Income / Revenue Reflects profitability before taxes and before impact of capital structure (interest payments). is 33%
1 Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 31%, FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 29%, CFO LTM is 140 Bil, FCF LTM is 129 Bil
2 Stock buyback support
Stock Buyback 3Y Total is 261 Bil
3 Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 25%
4 Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Artificial Intelligence, Autonomous Technologies, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, Show more.
5 Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is -2.4%, Dist 3Y High is -2.4%
6 Key risks
AAPL key risks include [1] intense global antitrust scrutiny of its App Store ecosystem, Show more.

AAPL in ETFs

Weight = AAPL's share of each fund

SPY7.5%
VOO6.6%
IVV7.5%
VTI5.9%
ITOT6.7%
QQQ7.9%
QQQM7.9%
DIA3.8%
+46 more covered ETFs

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

AI Analysis | Feedback

Updated on 7/15/2026

Apple (AAPL) stock has gained about 30% since 3/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Exceptional Fiscal Q2 2026 Financial Performance and Optimistic Outlook.

Apple reported strong results for fiscal Q2 2026 (ending March 28, 2026), with revenue of $111.2 billion, up 17% year-over-year, exceeding Wall Street estimates. Diluted earnings per share (EPS) reached $2.01, a 22% increase year-over-year, also surpassing analysts' expectations. The company achieved March quarter records for total revenue, iPhone revenue, and EPS. Furthermore, Apple provided a robust outlook for fiscal Q3 2026, forecasting total company revenue growth of 14% to 17% year-over-year, which was above analysts' estimates.

2. Sustained Strong Demand for iPhone and Record Services Revenue.

The iPhone 17 lineup continued to drive significant sales, with iPhone revenue surging 22% year-over-year to $57 billion in fiscal Q2 2026. This strong demand contributed to Apple achieving a record global smartphone market share of 20% in calendar Q2 2026 (April-June). Concurrently, Apple's high-margin Services segment reached an all-time record revenue of $31 billion in fiscal Q2 2026, marking a 16% year-over-year increase. Analysts project Apple to reach a record smartphone market share of approximately 25% for the current fiscal year.

Show more
Updated on 7/15/2026

Apple (AAPL) stock has gained about 30% since 3/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Exceptional Fiscal Q2 2026 Financial Performance and Optimistic Outlook.

Apple reported strong results for fiscal Q2 2026 (ending March 28, 2026), with revenue of $111.2 billion, up 17% year-over-year, exceeding Wall Street estimates. Diluted earnings per share (EPS) reached $2.01, a 22% increase year-over-year, also surpassing analysts' expectations. The company achieved March quarter records for total revenue, iPhone revenue, and EPS. Furthermore, Apple provided a robust outlook for fiscal Q3 2026, forecasting total company revenue growth of 14% to 17% year-over-year, which was above analysts' estimates.

2. Sustained Strong Demand for iPhone and Record Services Revenue.

The iPhone 17 lineup continued to drive significant sales, with iPhone revenue surging 22% year-over-year to $57 billion in fiscal Q2 2026. This strong demand contributed to Apple achieving a record global smartphone market share of 20% in calendar Q2 2026 (April-June). Concurrently, Apple's high-margin Services segment reached an all-time record revenue of $31 billion in fiscal Q2 2026, marking a 16% year-over-year increase. Analysts project Apple to reach a record smartphone market share of approximately 25% for the current fiscal year.

3. Enhanced Capital Return Program.

Apple demonstrated confidence in its future financial performance by authorizing an additional $100 billion for share repurchases. Additionally, the company increased its quarterly cash dividend by 4% to $0.27 per share, payable in May 2026, marking the 14th consecutive year of dividend increases. These actions signal a strong commitment to returning value to shareholders.

4. Positive Analyst Sentiment and Upgraded Price Targets Driven by AI Integration.

Despite an initial mixed reaction to the introduction of "Siri AI" and "Apple Intelligence" features at WWDC 2026 in June, leading analysts responded with significant price target upgrades, signaling long-term optimism. For example, Citi raised its price target to $365 from $315 in mid-July, maintaining a "Buy" rating and citing Apple's robust fundamentals and pricing power. Wedbush reiterated an "Outperform" rating and a $400 price target after WWDC, suggesting that Apple's new AI strategy could add $75 to $100 per share to the stock over time. These revisions reflect expectations for substantial long-term growth and monetization potential from Apple's advancements in artificial intelligence, particularly its capacity to enhance high-margin services revenue.

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Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The 28.5% change in AAPL stock from 3/31/2026 to 7/22/2026 was primarily driven by a 22.9% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)33120267222026Change
Stock Price ($)253.56325.8928.5%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)435,617451,4423.6%
Net Income Margin (%)27.0%27.2%0.4%
P/E Multiple31.839.022.9%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)14,74814,6730.5%
Cumulative Contribution28.5%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

3/31/2026 to 7/22/2026
ReturnCorrelation
AAPL28.5% 
Market (SPY)14.9%26.9%
Sector (XLK)35.6%10.5%

Fundamental Drivers

The 20.1% change in AAPL stock from 12/31/2025 to 7/22/2026 was primarily driven by a 8.7% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)123120257222026Change
Stock Price ($)271.36325.8920.1%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)416,161451,4428.5%
Net Income Margin (%)26.9%27.2%0.9%
P/E Multiple35.939.08.7%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)14,81514,6731.0%
Cumulative Contribution20.1%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

12/31/2025 to 7/22/2026
ReturnCorrelation
AAPL20.1% 
Market (SPY)9.9%40.3%
Sector (XLK)25.4%23.6%

Fundamental Drivers

The 59.5% change in AAPL stock from 6/30/2025 to 7/22/2026 was primarily driven by a 23.9% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)63020257222026Change
Stock Price ($)204.36325.8959.5%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)400,366451,44212.8%
Net Income Margin (%)24.3%27.2%11.7%
P/E Multiple31.539.023.9%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)14,99414,6732.2%
Cumulative Contribution59.5%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

6/30/2025 to 7/22/2026
ReturnCorrelation
AAPL59.5% 
Market (SPY)22.0%43.7%
Sector (XLK)43.0%28.6%

Fundamental Drivers

The 70.4% change in AAPL stock from 6/30/2023 to 7/22/2026 was primarily driven by a 21.8% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)63020237222026Change
Stock Price ($)191.29325.8970.4%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)385,095451,44217.2%
Net Income Margin (%)24.5%27.2%10.9%
P/E Multiple32.039.021.8%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)15,78714,6737.6%
Cumulative Contribution70.4%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

6/30/2023 to 7/22/2026
ReturnCorrelation
AAPL70.4% 
Market (SPY)74.6%63.4%
Sector (XLK)111.3%56.3%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
AAPL Return35%-26%49%31%9%21%154%
Peers Return46%-34%62%32%14%48%246%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%10%100%

Monthly Win Rates [3]
AAPL Win Rate67%25%75%58%58%57% 
Peers Win Rate70%32%73%62%47%51% 
S&P 500 Win Rate75%42%67%75%67%57% 

Max Drawdowns [4]
AAPL Max Drawdown-19%-30%-15%-15%-31%-13% 
Peers Max Drawdown-13%-43%-18%-25%-32%-22% 
S&P 500 Max Drawdown-5%-25%-10%-8%-19%-9% 


[1] Cumulative total returns since the beginning of 2021
[2] Peers: MSFT, GOOGL, AMZN, DELL, HPQ. See AAPL Returns vs. Peers.
[3] Win Rate = % of calendar months in which monthly returns were positive
[4] Max drawdown represents maximum peak-to-trough decline within a year
[5] 2026 data is for the year up to 7/22/2026 (YTD)

How Low Can It Go

EventAAPLS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-29.6%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven42.0%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven164 days79 days
2024 Yen Carry Trade Unwind
  % Loss-11.1%-7.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven12.4%8.5%
  Time to Breakeven55 days18 days
Summer-Fall 2023 Five Percent Yield Shock
  % Loss-13.7%-9.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven15.9%10.5%
  Time to Breakeven40 days24 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-28.3%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven39.6%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven351 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-30.7%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven44.2%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven71 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-38.5%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven62.6%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven280 days105 days

Compare to MSFT, GOOGL, AMZN, DELL, HPQ

In The Past

Apple's stock fell -29.6% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 42.0% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

EventAAPLS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-29.6%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven42.0%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven164 days79 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-28.3%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven39.6%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven351 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-30.7%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven44.2%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven71 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-38.5%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven62.6%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven280 days105 days
2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis
  % Loss-60.7%-53.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven154.4%114.4%
  Time to Breakeven274 days1085 days

Compare to MSFT, GOOGL, AMZN, DELL, HPQ

In The Past

Apple's stock fell -29.6% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 42.0% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

About Apple (AAPL)

Apple Inc. (AAPL) is a global technology company that designs, manufactures, and markets a wide range of consumer electronics, software, and online services. The company's business model centers on creating an integrated ecosystem of hardware and software, providing users with premium smartphones, personal computers, tablets, and wearable devices.

Apple's main products include the iPhone (smartphones), Mac (personal computers), iPad (tablets), and popular wearables such as Apple Watch and AirPods. Complementing its hardware, Apple offers a robust suite of services, including the App Store for digital content and applications, Apple Music for streaming, Apple TV+ for original video content, Apple Pay for mobile payments, and AppleCare for support. It also provides cloud services and subscription offerings like Apple Arcade and Apple News+.

The company primarily serves a broad customer base, including individual consumers, small and mid-sized businesses, and sectors like education, enterprise, and government. Apple distributes its products globally through its own retail and online stores, direct sales force, and a network of third-party cellular network carriers, wholesalers, retailers, and resellers.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Here are 1-3 brief analogies to describe Apple (AAPL):

  • The Nike of personal technology.
  • Imagine if Tesla made your phone, computer, and watch, and designed all the software they ran on.
  • The Rolex of personal electronics.

AI Analysis | Feedback

  • iPhone: Apple's flagship line of smartphones.
  • Mac: Apple's brand of personal computers.
  • iPad: Apple's line of multi-purpose tablets.
  • Wearables & Accessories: Includes devices like Apple Watch, AirPods, Apple TV, and HomePod.
  • App Store: A digital marketplace for applications and content.
  • Apple Music: A subscription-based music streaming service.
  • Apple TV+: A subscription video streaming service featuring exclusive original content.
  • Apple Arcade: A subscription service offering a curated library of games.
  • Apple News+: A subscription service for news and magazines.
  • AppleCare: Comprehensive support and extended warranty services for Apple products.
  • iCloud: Cloud storage and synchronization services for data across Apple devices.
  • Apple Pay: A mobile payment and digital wallet service.
  • Apple Card: A co-branded credit card offering integrated financial management.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Apple Inc. (AAPL) primarily sells its products and services to individuals and various organizational entities. Its major customer categories include:

  1. Consumers: Individual users worldwide who purchase Apple's smartphones, personal computers, tablets, wearables, accessories, and subscribe to its various services (e.g., Apple Music, Apple TV+, App Store content) for personal use.
  2. Small and Mid-sized Businesses: Organizations that acquire Apple products (such as iPhones, Macs, and iPads) and related services for their employees and operational needs.
  3. Education, Enterprise, and Government Markets: Larger institutions, corporations, and public sector bodies that integrate Apple technology into their learning environments, corporate infrastructure, or administrative systems.

AI Analysis | Feedback

  • Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd. (Foxconn) (2317.TW)
  • Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC) (TSM)
  • Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (005930.KS)
  • LG Display Co., Ltd. (LPL)
  • Qualcomm Incorporated (QCOM)
  • Broadcom Inc. (AVGO)
  • Sony Group Corporation (SONY)
  • Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (6981.T)
  • Luxshare Precision Industry Co., Ltd. (002475.SZ)
  • Goertek Inc. (002241.SZ)
  • Pegatron Corporation (4938.TW)
  • Wistron Corporation (3231.TW)

AI Analysis | Feedback

Tim Cook, Chief Executive Officer

Tim Cook has served as Apple's CEO since 2011, succeeding co-founder Steve Jobs. Prior to his appointment as CEO, he was Apple's chief operating officer, responsible for the company's worldwide sales and operations, supply chain management, and service and support across all markets. Before joining Apple in 1998, Cook spent 12 years at IBM, where he was director of North American Fulfillment. He also served as chief operating officer of the Reseller Division at Intelligent Electronics and as vice president of Corporate Materials for Compaq.

Kevan Parekh, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Kevan Parekh assumed the role of Apple's Chief Financial Officer on January 1, 2025. He reports directly to CEO Tim Cook and oversees Apple's accounting, business support, financial planning and analysis, treasury, investor relations, internal audit, and tax functions. Parekh joined Apple in 2013 and has held key roles in financial and business planning, and product development planning. Prior to his time at Apple, he held senior leadership positions at Thomson Reuters and General Motors, working across Europe and Asia.

Katherine Adams, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs

Katherine Adams is Apple's senior vice president of Government Affairs, leading the team that engages with legislators and policymakers globally on topics important to Apple's users. She previously served as Apple's general counsel and senior vice president of Legal and Global Security. Adams joined Apple in 2017 after 14 years at Honeywell, where she was most recently senior vice president and general counsel, managing the organization's global legal strategy across over 100 countries.

Eddy Cue, Senior Vice President of Services and Health

Eddy Cue is Apple's senior vice president of Services and Health, reporting to CEO Tim Cook. He oversees the full range of Apple's services, including Apple Music, Apple News, Apple Podcasts, Apple TV app, Apple Pay, Apple Card, Maps, iCloud services, and Apple's productivity and creativity apps. Cue joined Apple in 1989 and was instrumental in creating the Apple Store online in 1998, the iTunes Store in 2003, and the App Store in 2008.

Craig Federighi, Senior Vice President of Software Engineering

Craig Federighi is Apple's senior vice president of Software Engineering, responsible for the development of Apple's software platforms, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and visionOS. His teams deliver the software, user interface, applications, and frameworks for Apple's innovative products. Federighi returned to Apple in 2009 to lead macOS engineering, and in 2012, his responsibilities expanded to include iOS. Before rejoining Apple, he worked at NeXT, and then spent a decade at Ariba, an e-commerce pioneer where he held several roles, including chief technology officer.

AI Analysis | Feedback

The key risks to Apple's business include:

  1. Regulatory and Antitrust Scrutiny: Apple faces significant global regulatory and antitrust challenges, particularly concerning its App Store policies and business practices. Investigations and lawsuits from entities such as the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the European Union (EU) Digital Markets Act (DMA) target Apple's control over app distribution and in-app purchasing systems, which could lead to mandated changes in business practices, lower commission fees, and substantial fines. These actions directly threaten the high-margin revenue generated by Apple's Services segment.
  2. Geopolitical Tensions and Supply Chain Concentration: Apple's deep reliance on China as both a primary manufacturing hub and a critical consumer market exposes it to considerable geopolitical risks. Escalating trade tensions, tariffs, export controls, and potential shifts in consumer sentiment in China could disrupt its supply chain, increase production costs, and negatively impact sales in a key region. While Apple is pursuing diversification of its manufacturing base to countries like India and Vietnam, this process is complex, costly, and its dependency on China remains substantial.
  3. Innovation and Competition in Rapidly Evolving Technologies: Apple operates in highly competitive markets across its product and service categories, requiring constant innovation to maintain its leadership. There is a risk that new products and services may not achieve the same level of profitability or market acceptance as existing offerings, such as the iPhone. Furthermore, the company faces pressure to keep pace with rapid technological advancements, especially in artificial intelligence (AI), and a perceived lag in AI development or a failure to introduce compelling new AI features could impact its competitive standing and future growth.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Regulatory actions, particularly those aimed at dismantling its tightly controlled App Store ecosystem and payment policies. Examples include the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA), which mandates allowing alternative app stores and third-party payment systems on iOS devices, and ongoing antitrust scrutiny in other regions such as the United States and Japan. These actions threaten Apple's significant revenue streams from App Store commissions and its strategic control over its platform, potentially leading to reduced profitability and a more fragmented user experience.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Addressable Markets for Apple's Main Products and Services

  • Smartphones (iPhone): The global smartphone market size was valued at USD 649.13 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 1173.47 billion by 2033.
  • Personal Computers (Mac): The global personal computers market size was valued at USD 211.31 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 390.84 billion by 2033.
  • Tablets (iPad): The global tablet market size was valued at USD 84.6 billion in 2024 and is estimated to reach USD 202.4 billion by 2033.
  • Wearables (AirPods Max, AirPods, Apple Watch, Beats products): The global wearables market was estimated at USD 179.8 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 995.2 billion in 2034.
  • App Store (Applications and Digital Content): The App Store ecosystem facilitated nearly USD 1.3 trillion in billings and sales worldwide in 2024. Of this, USD 131 billion originated from billings and sales of digital goods and services.
  • Apple Arcade (Game Subscription Service): The global subscription-based gaming market generated USD 11.53 billion in revenue in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 24.18 billion by 2030.
  • Apple Music (Music Streaming): The global music streaming market generated USD 48.6 billion in 2024 and is predicted to grow to about USD 200 billion by 2034.
  • Apple TV+ (Video Streaming): The global video streaming market size was estimated at USD 129.26 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 416.8 billion by 2030.
  • Apple Card and Apple Pay (FinTech/Digital Payments):
    • The global fintech market was valued at USD 394.88 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1,760.18 billion by 2034.
    • The global digital payment market size was estimated at USD 114.41 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 361.30 billion by 2030.
  • Apple News+: null
  • AppleCare support services: null
  • Licensing intellectual property: null

AI Analysis | Feedback

Apple Inc. (AAPL) is expected to drive future revenue growth over the next 2-3 years through several key strategies and market trends:

  1. Continued Services Growth: Apple's Services segment, encompassing offerings like the App Store, Apple Music, iCloud, and payment services, is a consistent and high-margin revenue driver. This segment has shown robust double-digit year-over-year growth and is projected to continue its strong momentum, supported by Apple's extensive installed base of over 2.5 billion active devices. The expansion of this ecosystem, through recurring subscriptions and digital transactions, provides stable and predictable revenue streams.
  2. Strong iPhone Sales and Upgrade Cycles: iPhone sales continue to be a significant contributor to Apple's revenue, with recent quarters showing strong growth, particularly driven by new product launches like the iPhone 17 lineup. A large, installed base of active devices creates opportunities for significant hardware upgrade cycles, especially with the introduction of new, more capable, and AI-ready iPhone models.
  3. Expansion in Emerging Markets: Apple is experiencing considerable growth in emerging markets. The company has reported double-digit iPhone growth in regions such as India, the Middle East, South Asia, Brazil, and Greater China, indicating a successful strategy to expand its customer base beyond traditional markets. This geographical expansion is crucial for sustained long-term revenue growth.
  4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration and Innovation: Apple's strategic focus on developing and integrating AI across its platforms is a significant future growth driver. This includes efforts to enhance its operating systems and services, such as a more personalized Siri, potentially through collaborations like the one with Google for foundational AI models. New AI-ready iPads and Macs are also expected to accelerate sales by appealing to an increasingly AI-focused technological environment.
  5. New Product Line Innovation and Market Share Expansion: Apple is demonstrating flexibility in its product strategy by introducing new offerings aimed at broader market segments. Examples include the launch of the MacBook Neo, a more budget-friendly laptop, and the iPhone 17e, a new low-end iPhone, designed to attract new users into the Apple ecosystem and increase market share. Furthermore, exploration into new categories like home automation and security, potentially with a smart home hub and security cameras, could also serve as future revenue catalysts.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Share Repurchases

  • Apple authorized an additional $110 billion for share repurchases in May 2024, marking the largest share buyback in U.S. company history.
  • The company repurchased $90.711 billion in shares in 2025, $94.949 billion in 2024, and $77.55 billion in 2023.

Share Issuance

  • Apple's shares outstanding declined by 2.62% in 2025 (to 15.005 billion), 2.56% in 2024 (to 15.408 billion), and 3.14% in 2023 (to 15.813 billion), primarily due to extensive share repurchase programs.

Outbound Investments

  • Apple is significantly increasing its AI investments and has made seven acquisitions directly related to its AI ambitions in 2025, with a stated openness to further strategic acquisitions aligned with long-term AI goals.
  • The company has committed $500 billion to U.S. investments over several years, focusing on expanding U.S.-based manufacturing and research and development.
  • In October 2025, Apple pledged further investments in China while simultaneously preparing to dedicate another $100 billion to expanding its operations in the U.S.

Capital Expenditures

  • Apple's annual capital expenditures were $12.715 billion in 2025, $9.447 billion in 2024, and $10.959 billion in 2023.
  • Expected capital expenditures for the next fiscal year are forecast at $13.465 billion, with a high consensus reaching $16.238 billion.
  • A significant portion of capital expenditures in fiscal Q4 2025, which saw a 35% year-over-year increase to $12.7 billion, was directed towards AI infrastructure, chip development, and new data centers.

Better Bets vs. Apple (AAPL)

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Peer Comparisons

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Financials

AAPLMSFTGOOGLAMZNDELLHPQMedian
NameApple MicrosoftAlphabet Amazon.c.Dell Tec.HP  
Mkt Price325.89390.34342.09244.85441.8025.10333.99
Mkt Cap4,781.92,898.74,138.92,630.4286.723.12,764.5
Rev LTM451,442318,273422,499742,776134,00257,417370,386
Op Inc LTM147,366148,957138,12985,42210,8483,774111,776
FCF LTM129,17472,91664,429-2,4729,4423,77936,936
FCF 3Y Avg109,86070,95269,47421,3466,1283,18145,410
CFO LTM140,222170,141174,353148,53112,4704,594144,376
CFO 3Y Avg120,114136,991138,013120,5278,8953,902120,320

Growth & Margins

AAPLMSFTGOOGLAMZNDELLHPQMedian
NameApple MicrosoftAlphabet Amazon.c.Dell Tec.HP  
Rev Chg LTM12.8%17.9%17.5%14.2%38.6%5.7%15.8%
Rev Chg 3Y Avg5.6%15.3%14.1%12.3%12.9%0.9%12.6%
Rev Chg Q16.6%18.3%21.8%16.6%87.5%9.0%17.5%
QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM3.6%4.2%4.9%3.6%18.0%2.1%3.9%
Op Inc Chg LTM15.7%22.0%17.5%19.2%63.1%-1.9%18.3%
Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg9.6%20.7%24.3%108.4%29.1%-4.6%22.5%
Op Mgn LTM32.6%46.8%32.7%11.5%8.1%6.6%22.1%
Op Mgn 3Y Avg31.8%45.6%31.5%10.2%7.2%7.3%20.8%
QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM0.3%0.1%0.7%0.3%0.8%0.2%0.3%
CFO/Rev LTM31.1%53.5%41.3%20.0%9.3%8.0%25.5%
CFO/Rev 3Y Avg29.1%49.5%37.3%18.1%8.2%7.1%23.6%
FCF/Rev LTM28.6%22.9%15.2%-0.3%7.0%6.6%11.1%
FCF/Rev 3Y Avg26.6%26.1%19.3%3.5%5.6%5.8%12.5%

Valuation

AAPLMSFTGOOGLAMZNDELLHPQMedian
NameApple MicrosoftAlphabet Amazon.c.Dell Tec.HP  
Mkt Cap4,781.92,898.74,138.92,630.4286.723.12,764.5
P/S10.69.19.83.52.10.46.3
P/Op Inc32.419.530.030.826.46.128.2
P/EBIT32.418.421.222.324.47.421.7
P/E39.023.125.829.034.19.127.4
P/CFO34.117.023.717.723.05.020.4
Total Yield2.9%5.2%4.1%3.5%3.5%15.8%3.8%
Dividend Yield0.3%0.9%0.2%0.0%0.5%4.7%0.4%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg3.1%2.2%2.7%1.0%4.4%13.0%2.9%
D/E0.00.00.00.10.10.50.1
Net D/E0.0-0.0-0.00.00.10.30.0

Returns

AAPLMSFTGOOGLAMZNDELLHPQMedian
NameApple MicrosoftAlphabet Amazon.c.Dell Tec.HP  
1M Rtn9.7%6.3%-2.2%5.2%5.7%6.6%6.0%
3M Rtn19.4%-9.6%0.9%-4.1%106.2%24.3%10.1%
6M Rtn31.8%-11.7%4.3%5.9%291.9%32.2%18.8%
12M Rtn52.6%-22.1%79.3%7.6%259.9%3.8%30.1%
3Y Rtn72.2%16.2%187.6%88.3%771.5%-12.0%80.3%
1M Excs Rtn9.4%5.9%-2.5%4.8%5.3%6.3%5.6%
3M Excs Rtn16.4%-13.9%-3.1%-8.2%102.2%14.3%5.6%
6M Excs Rtn22.0%-24.1%-4.0%-4.3%289.3%20.1%8.1%
12M Excs Rtn35.1%-41.8%61.5%-12.1%229.4%-12.6%11.5%
3Y Excs Rtn4.5%-50.2%111.1%17.5%687.6%-79.3%11.0%

Financials

Segment Financials

Revenue by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
iPhone209,586201,183200,583205,489191,973
Services109,15896,16985,20078,12968,425
Wearables, Home and Accessories35,68637,00539,84541,24138,367
Mac33,70829,98429,35740,17735,190
iPad28,02326,69428,30029,29231,862
Total416,161391,035383,285394,328365,817


Operating Income by Segment
$ Mil2009
Americas6,637
Europe4,296
Retail1,677
Other Segments1,121
Japan961
Corporate-2,952
Total11,740


Assets by Segment
$ Mil2009
Corporate41,897
Americas1,882
Europe1,352
Retail1,344
Other Segments543
Japan483
Total47,501


Price Behavior

Price Behavior
Market Price$325.89 
Market Cap ($ Bil)4,781.9 
First Trading Date12/12/1980 
Distance from 52W High-2.4% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$304.89$274.77
DMA Trendupup
Distance from DMA6.9%18.6%
 3M1YR
Volatility27.9%24.6%
Downside Capture-14.5559.08
Upside Capture70.3396.20
Correlation (SPY)21.8%43.8%
AAPL Betas & Captures as of 6/30/2026

 1M2M3M6M1Y3Y
Beta0.380.520.680.810.881.11
Up Beta1.591.031.181.011.051.21
Down Beta0.050.130.240.710.821.16
Up Capture-30%66%65%71%95%96%
Bmk +ve Days11244067140429
Stock +ve Days9223563134405
Down Capture53%38%36%80%76%101%
Bmk -ve Days10172358112321
Stock -ve Days12182761117344

[1] Upside and downside betas calculated using positive and negative benchmark daily returns respectively
Based On 1-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with AAPL
AAPL53.3%24.6%1.70-
Sector ETF (XLK)38.8%24.7%1.2728.7%
Equity (SPY)20.0%12.6%1.1643.7%
Gold (GLD)21.2%28.1%0.677.3%
Commodities (DBC)33.0%19.1%1.36-16.9%
Real Estate (VNQ)13.9%14.0%0.7017.4%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-43.6%42.9%-1.2112.9%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 5-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with AAPL
AAPL17.4%27.8%0.58-
Sector ETF (XLK)19.6%25.6%0.6871.1%
Equity (SPY)12.8%17.1%0.5873.6%
Gold (GLD)17.3%18.4%0.765.3%
Commodities (DBC)9.3%19.5%0.379.9%
Real Estate (VNQ)2.7%18.9%0.0446.3%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)15.2%53.5%0.4626.1%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 10-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with AAPL
AAPL30.8%29.1%0.97-
Sector ETF (XLK)24.5%24.8%0.8978.4%
Equity (SPY)15.1%17.9%0.7274.5%
Gold (GLD)11.5%16.1%0.585.7%
Commodities (DBC)7.1%17.9%0.3119.3%
Real Estate (VNQ)5.0%20.7%0.2047.0%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)58.5%66.2%0.9918.5%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How

Short Interest

Short Interest: As Of Date6302026
Short Interest: Shares Quantity140.5 Mil
Short Interest: % Change Since 6152026-2.6%
Average Daily Volume81.1 Mil
Days-to-Cover Short Interest1.7 days
Basic Shares Quantity14,673.3 Mil
Short % of Basic Shares1.0%

Earnings Returns History

Updated 6/2/2026
Expand for More
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
4/30/20263.2%5.9%13.0%
1/29/20260.5%6.8%2.6%
10/30/2025-0.4%-0.6%5.6%
7/31/2025-2.5%6.0%12.0%
5/1/2025-3.7%-7.4%-5.3%
1/30/2025-0.7%-1.8%0.3%
10/31/2024-1.3%0.7%6.2%
8/1/20240.7%-2.3%5.0%
...
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive101417
# Negative14107
Median Positive4.0%5.1%5.2%
Median Negative-1.6%-4.1%-6.1%
Max Positive10.5%18.4%30.0%
Max Negative-5.6%-7.4%-14.5%
Collapse to Preview
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
4/30/20263.2%5.9%13.0%
1/29/20260.5%6.8%2.6%
10/30/2025-0.4%-0.6%5.6%
7/31/2025-2.5%6.0%12.0%
5/1/2025-3.7%-7.4%-5.3%
1/30/2025-0.7%-1.8%0.3%
10/31/2024-1.3%0.7%6.2%
8/1/20240.7%-2.3%5.0%
5/2/20246.0%6.7%12.3%
2/1/2024-0.5%0.8%-6.2%
11/2/2023-0.5%2.7%6.8%
8/3/2023-4.8%-6.9%-0.8%
5/4/20234.7%4.8%8.5%
2/2/20232.4%0.0%2.2%
10/27/20227.6%-4.1%-0.2%
7/28/20223.3%5.4%4.1%
4/28/2022-3.7%-4.2%-8.4%
1/27/20227.0%8.6%3.8%
10/28/2021-1.8%-1.1%5.2%
7/27/2021-1.2%0.4%1.2%
4/28/2021-0.1%-4.1%-6.1%
1/27/2021-3.5%-5.7%-14.5%
10/29/2020-5.6%3.2%3.4%
7/30/202010.5%18.4%30.0%
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive101417
# Negative14107
Median Positive4.0%5.1%5.2%
Median Negative-1.6%-4.1%-6.1%
Max Positive10.5%18.4%30.0%
Max Negative-5.6%-7.4%-14.5%

SEC Filings

Expand for More
Report DateFiling DateFiling
03/31/202605/01/202610-Q
12/31/202501/30/202610-Q
09/30/202510/31/202510-K
06/30/202508/01/202510-Q
03/31/202505/02/202510-Q
12/31/202401/31/202510-Q
09/30/202411/01/202410-K
06/30/202408/02/202410-Q
03/31/202405/03/202410-Q
12/31/202302/02/202410-Q
09/30/202311/03/202310-K
06/30/202308/04/202310-Q
03/31/202305/05/202310-Q
12/31/202202/03/202310-Q
09/30/202210/28/202210-K
06/30/202207/29/202210-Q
Collapse to Preview
Report DateFiling DateFiling
03/31/202605/01/202610-Q
12/31/202501/30/202610-Q
09/30/202510/31/202510-K
06/30/202508/01/202510-Q
03/31/202505/02/202510-Q
12/31/202401/31/202510-Q
09/30/202411/01/202410-K
06/30/202408/02/202410-Q
03/31/202405/03/202410-Q
12/31/202302/02/202410-Q
09/30/202311/03/202310-K
06/30/202308/04/202310-Q
03/31/202305/05/202310-Q
12/31/202202/03/202310-Q
09/30/202210/28/202210-K
06/30/202207/29/202210-Q
03/31/202204/29/202210-Q
12/31/202101/28/202210-Q
09/30/202110/29/202110-K
06/30/202107/28/202110-Q
03/31/202104/29/202110-Q
12/31/202001/28/202110-Q
09/30/202010/30/202010-K
06/30/202007/31/202010-Q
03/31/202005/01/202010-Q
12/31/201901/29/202010-Q
09/30/201910/31/201910-K
06/30/201907/31/201910-Q

Insider Activity

Updated 6/17/2026
Expand for More
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Borders, BenPrincipal Accounting OfficerDirectSell6172026295.1411634,23611,425,755Form
2Levinson, Arthur D DirectSell5292026311.0250,00015,551,0001,170,858,428Form
3Borders, BenPrincipal Accounting OfficerDirectSell5122026290.001,274369,46011,226,770Form
4Levinson, Arthur D DirectSell5082026284.76250,00071,189,7221,087,658,219Form
5Parekh, KevanSenior Vice President, CFODirectSell4272026275.001,534421,8503,675,650Form
Collapse to Preview
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Borders, BenPrincipal Accounting OfficerDirectSell6172026295.1411634,23611,425,755Form
2Levinson, Arthur D DirectSell5292026311.0250,00015,551,0001,170,858,428Form
3Borders, BenPrincipal Accounting OfficerDirectSell5122026290.001,274369,46011,226,770Form
4Levinson, Arthur D DirectSell5082026284.76250,00071,189,7221,087,658,219Form
5Parekh, KevanSenior Vice President, CFODirectSell4272026275.001,534421,8503,675,650Form
6O'Brien, DeirdreSenior Vice PresidentDirectSell4032026255.3530,0027,660,87534,933,815Form
7Cook, Timothy DChief Executive OfficerDirectSell4032026254.2364,94916,512,198833,991,449Form
8Kondo, ChrisPrincipal Accounting OfficerDirectSell11122025271.233,7521,017,6554,095,031Form
9Parekh, KevanSenior Vice President, CFODirectSell10172025247.394,1991,038,7872,168,367Form
10Cook, Timothy DChief Executive OfficerDirectSell10032025256.81129,96333,375,723842,410,671Form
11O'Brien, DeirdreSenior Vice PresidentDirectSell10032025257.3943,01311,071,07835,181,747Form
12Adams, Katherine LSVP, GC and SecretaryDirectSell10032025256.7947,12512,101,15446,005,698Form
13Levinson, Arthur D DirectSell8292025232.0790,00020,886,300944,426,502Form
14O'Brien, DeirdreSenior Vice PresidentDirectSell8122025223.2034,8217,772,04730,508,538Form

Investor Activity (13F)

Updated Jul 23, 2026
13F holdings as of Mar 31, 2026 (Q1 2026)

Active managers (13F portfolio over $250M, at least 3 holdings) with a position over $5M that is either over 10% of their portfolio or held in a concentrated book of 50 or fewer total positions. Index/ETF, sovereign, bank, community-bank and charitable/donor-advised filers are excluded.

Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
RJA Asset Management LLC$248.8 Mil91.5%4Hold13F
Independent Investors Inc$274.4 Mil54.5%70Hold13F
Circle Wealth Management, LLC$3.0 Bil43.2%262ADD +26.8%13F
OP Asset Management Ltd$741.0 Mil40.9%64New13F
H&H International Investment, LLC$7.3 Bil36.7%19TRIM -10.5%13F
Fiduciary Family Office, LLC$113.3 Mil32.3%179Hold13F
Performance Wealth Partners, LLC$996.0 Mil28.9%212Hold13F
Golden Unicorn (BVI) Ltd$177.7 Mil25.5%4Hold13F
Biltmore Family Office, LLC$174.6 Mil24.4%325Hold13F
Evolution Wealth Advisors, LLC$238.7 Mil24.3%176Hold13F
Greenbrier Partners Capital Management, LLC$299.6 Mil23.1%11TRIM -16.9%13F
Berkshire Hathaway Inc$57.8 Bil22.0%90Hold13F
Fishman Jay a Ltd/Mi$228.1 Mil20.4%76Hold13F
Keating Financial Advisory Services, Inc.$120.5 Mil19.5%2572Hold13F
MPS Loria Financial Planners, LLC$71.0 Mil18.7%94Hold13F
Capital Investment Counsel, Inc$138.2 Mil16.9%249TRIM -5.8%13F
ZEGA Investments, LLC$88.5 Mil16.8%190Hold13F
Brickley Wealth Management$97.1 Mil16.7%60Hold13F
Bender Robert & Associates$66.5 Mil16.0%45TRIM -8.1%13F
Windward Capital Management Co /Ca$194.0 Mil15.8%69Hold13F
Opes Wealth Management LLC$92.4 Mil15.8%141Hold13F
Cincinnati Specialty Underwriters Insurance CO$64.2 Mil15.6%46TRIM -17.8%13F
Miller Wealth Advisors, LLC$40.5 Mil15.6%117Hold13F
Yarbrough Capital, LLC$442.8 Mil15.5%85Hold13F
Zullo Investment Group, Inc.$40.5 Mil15.4%158Hold13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
OP Asset Management Ltd$741.0 Mil40.9%64New13F
Clare Market Investments LLC$60.6 Mil12.7%167New13F
Howard Hughes Medical Institute$50.4 Mil12.1%31New13F
1776 Wealth LLC$31.6 Mil12.4%146New13F
Circle Wealth Management, LLC$3.0 Bil43.2%262ADD +26.8%13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQAs OfFiling
Three Seasons Wealth, LLC$134.4 Mil12.8%199ExitedDec 31, 202513F
Platform Wealth Management, LLC$61.9 Mil16.4%82ExitedDec 31, 202513F
Cincinnati Specialty Underwriters Insurance CO$64.2 Mil15.6%46TRIM -17.8%Mar 31, 202613F
Greenbrier Partners Capital Management, LLC$299.6 Mil23.1%11TRIM -16.9%Mar 31, 202613F
H&H International Investment, LLC$7.3 Bil36.7%19TRIM -10.5%Mar 31, 202613F
Bender Robert & Associates$66.5 Mil16.0%45TRIM -8.1%Mar 31, 202613F
Sittner & Nelson, LLC$39.2 Mil14.3%573TRIM -8.1%Mar 31, 202613F
Capital Investment Counsel, Inc$138.2 Mil16.9%249TRIM -5.8%Mar 31, 202613F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Berkshire Hathaway Inc$57.8 Bil22.0%90Hold13F
H&H International Investment, LLC$7.3 Bil36.7%19TRIM -10.5%13F
Circle Wealth Management, LLC$3.0 Bil43.2%262ADD +26.8%13F
Everett Harris & Co /Ca/$1.0 Bil13.4%325Hold13F
Performance Wealth Partners, LLC$996.0 Mil28.9%212Hold13F
OP Asset Management Ltd$741.0 Mil40.9%64New13F
Cincinnati Financial Corp$709.9 Mil14.3%55Hold13F
Yarbrough Capital, LLC$442.8 Mil15.5%85Hold13F
Greenbrier Partners Capital Management, LLC$299.6 Mil23.1%11TRIM -16.9%13F
Independent Investors Inc$274.4 Mil54.5%70Hold13F
RJA Asset Management LLC$248.8 Mil91.5%4Hold13F
Evolution Wealth Advisors, LLC$238.7 Mil24.3%176Hold13F
Fishman Jay a Ltd/Mi$228.1 Mil20.4%76Hold13F
Windward Capital Management Co /Ca$194.0 Mil15.8%69Hold13F
Golden Unicorn (BVI) Ltd$177.7 Mil25.5%4Hold13F
Biltmore Family Office, LLC$174.6 Mil24.4%325Hold13F
Capital Investment Counsel, Inc$138.2 Mil16.9%249TRIM -5.8%13F
HCR Wealth Advisors$129.7 Mil13.5%241Hold13F
Keating Financial Advisory Services, Inc.$120.5 Mil19.5%2572Hold13F
Fiduciary Family Office, LLC$113.3 Mil32.3%179Hold13F
Brickley Wealth Management$97.1 Mil16.7%60Hold13F
Wahed Invest LLC$95.7 Mil12.4%225Hold13F
Opes Wealth Management LLC$92.4 Mil15.8%141Hold13F
ZEGA Investments, LLC$88.5 Mil16.8%190Hold13F
Aljian Capital Management, LLC$72.3 Mil14.9%131Hold13F

AAPL Trade Sentinel


Stock Conviction

Constructive

CONVICTION RATIONALE

Conviction is constructive based on a powerful, AI-driven product cycle fueling exceptional growth. iPhone revenue accelerated to 22% and the company guides for continued 14% to 17% growth. This momentum is balanced by significant, unresolved antitrust investigations in the US and EU targeting the high-margin Services business, which remains a key structural risk.

STOCK ARCHETYPE
Dominant Repeat-Purchase Franchise (Hardware) + Recurring Subscription/Transactional (Services)

Hardware revenue is driven by the size of the installed base multiplied by the upgrade rate and average selling price. Services revenue is driven by the installed base multiplied by the service attach rate and average spend per user. The ongoing mix shift from lower-margin hardware sales to higher-margin, recurring Services revenue.

Looking for high-conviction positions with a better risk/reward profile? See what's currently in the Trefis High Quality Portfolio.
INVESTMENT THESIS
Can the AI-driven hardware 'super-cycle' expand the high-margin services annuity?

Evidence suggests yes. An 'extraordinary' iPhone 17 cycle is driving 22% segment growth, expanding the installed base.

Mechanism: This growing base of over 2.5 billion devices feeds the 76.7% gross margin Services business, which grew 16%.
Supporting Evidence:
  • iPhone net sales increased 22% year-over-year in the most recent quarter.
  • The active installed base of devices is now over 2.5 billion.
  • Services net sales grew 16%, driven by the App Store and cloud services.
  • Company guides for total revenue growth of 14% to 17% for the next quarter.
  • Gross margin for Services was 76.7% versus 38.7% for Products.
PRIMARY RISK
Antitrust action dismantles the App Store.

Global regulators are targeting Apple's ecosystem. Active investigations in the EU and a US lawsuit allege monopolization, threatening the App Store's lucrative commission structure.

Mechanism: A ruling forcing alternative payment systems would directly pressure the 76.7% gross margin Services segment.
Supporting Evidence:
  • The company is subject to a formal EU noncompliance investigation under the Digital Markets Act.
  • A civil antitrust lawsuit in the U.S. alleges monopolization in smartphone markets.
  • Services gross margin is 76.7%, more than double that of Products.
  • Services revenue reached $109,158 million in fiscal year 2025.
Key KPI Watchlist
KPI Status Rationale
iPhone Revenue Growth22% year-over-year growth for the March quarter 2026. - StableiPhone revenue growth accelerated dramatically in the first half of fiscal 2026, jumping from 6% to 23%. The latest quarter's 22% growth sustains this high level. The CEO attributed this strength to the iPhone 17 family, calling it the "most popular lineup in our history."
Services Revenue Growth16% year-over-year growth for the March quarter 2026. - StableServices revenue growth has been consistently strong and stable in the mid-teens, setting an all-time revenue record in the latest quarter. The CFO noted growth was broad-based, with records across most service categories and geographic segments.
Active Installed BaseOver 2.5 billion devices (Q2 FY2026)This metric represents the total pool of users that can be monetized through hardware upgrades and, more importantly, recurring services. Growth in the installed base is a leading indicator of future services revenue potential.
iPhone Customer Satisfaction (U.S.)99% (Q2 FY2026)Extremely high customer satisfaction indicates strong brand loyalty and a high likelihood of repeat purchases and ecosystem lock-in, which supports the predictability of future hardware upgrade cycles.
Customers New to ProductOver half of customers for iPad and Apple Watch were new to the product (Q2 FY2026)This indicates the company's ability to continue expanding its user base and ecosystem, rather than relying solely on its existing customers for growth. It is a key measure of market penetration, especially in emerging markets.
Core Investment Debate

Hardware Super-Cycle vs. Services Regulatory Risk

BULL VIEW

Bulls believe the 22% iPhone growth from the AI-powered iPhone 17 is a durable cycle that expands the ecosystem, making Services growth inevitable.

CORE TENSION

Can accelerating hardware demand, with iPhone sales up 22%, overwhelm the structural risk from antitrust actions targeting the Services segment?


PREVAILING SENTIMENT
CAUTIOUSLY BULLISH

Current evidence favors the bulls. The company just posted 16.6% revenue growth and guided for 14-17% more, showing momentum is outweighing the regulatory threat for now.

BEAR VIEW

Bears argue the regulatory assault on the App Store will cripple the high-margin Services engine, leaving investors holding a peaking, lower-margin hardware business.

Next 6 months: Risks and Catalysts
Timeline Event & Metric To Watch
fourth quarter of 2026
New Tax Disclosures
Watch: The company will adopt ASU 2023-09, which requires additional income tax disclosures.
8/25/2026
Peer HP Earnings
Watch: Peer HP (HPQ) is scheduled to report earnings.
10/27/2026
Peer AI Results Reframe Narrative
Watch: AI-specific revenue growth, capex guidance, and enterprise AI adoption metrics from Microsoft and Alphabet.
10/28/2026
Margin Guidance Cut on Memory Costs
Watch: Gross margin guidance for the December quarter (Q1 FY27) and any quantification of the memory cost headwind.
11/9/2026
Peer Dell Earnings
Watch: Peer Dell Technologies (DELL) is scheduled to report earnings.
coming this year
Personalized Siri Launch
Watch: A more personalized version of Siri is expected to be released to users.
later this year
US Mac Mini Production
Watch: Mac mini production is scheduled to begin in America.
later this year
Houston Center Opening
Watch: An advanced manufacturing center is scheduled to open in Houston.
No set date
Adverse Antitrust Development
Watch: Preliminary findings, statements of objection, court rulings, or announced fines from the European Commission or US DOJ.
No set date
New Tariffs or Trade Restrictions
Watch: Publication of initial or final results from the Section 232 investigation or executive orders announcing new tariffs.
Key Events in Last 6 Months
Date Event Stock Impact
2026-07-13
Lawsuit Filed Against OpenAI
Details: Apple filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and two former Apple employees, alleging misappropriation of trade secrets related to the development of consumer AI hardware.
-0.1%
$315.32 -> $314.86
2026-07-08
Expanded Broadcom Chipmaking Partnership
Details: Apple announced a new multiyear agreement with Broadcom, expected to exceed $30 billion, to produce billions of U.S.-made chips, marking its largest American Manufacturing Program commitment.
+1.8%
$310.66 -> $316.22
2026-06-08
Apple Intelligence and Siri AI Unveiled
Details: At its Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple previewed its next generation of AI, including Apple Intelligence and a more capable Siri AI, powered by new foundation models.
-5.5%
$307.34 -> $290.55
2026-04-30
Record Q2 Earnings Beat Expectations
Details: For the March quarter, Apple reported revenue of $111.2 billion, up 17% year-over-year. iPhone revenue grew 22%. The stock reacted positively, up 4.0% over two days.
+3.7%
$269.92 -> $279.88
2026-02-17
Stock Rallies on AI Anticipation
Details: Apple stock closed at $263.8, up, as the company's AI strategy headed into a high-profile event.
+3.4%
$255.54 -> $264.11
2026-01-29
Strong Q1 Earnings Report
Details: For the quarter ended December 27, 2025, Apple reported revenue of $143.8 billion, up 16% year-over-year, with iPhone revenue growing 23%. The stock reaction was 1.0%.
+1.2%
$255.96 -> $259.00
Risk Management
Position Sizing

2% - 4%

REDUCED POSITION

Sizing is volatility-based: AAPL trades at roughly 26% annualized options-implied volatility versus about 15% for the S&P 500 (1.8x the market), around the 89th percentile of its own trailing year. A 2% - 4% position keeps a single-name swing of that size within a diversified portfolio's risk budget.

Diversification Alternatives
MSFT - Microsoft
Enterprise AI Exposure

Microsoft offers more direct exposure to enterprise AI adoption through its cloud and software businesses, with its AI unit surpassing a $37 billion annual run rate.

Core Thesis: The company is a primary beneficiary of enterprise transition to cloud computing and generative AI.
GOOGL - Alphabet
Cloud AI Infrastructure

Alphabet provides exposure to the foundational infrastructure layer of AI, with cloud revenue growing 63% and capital expenditures of $109.9 billion dwarfing Apple's.

Core Thesis: The company's dominance in search and massive investment in cloud infrastructure position it as a key AI platform.
How Is The Market Pricing AAPL?

Apple is a premium hardware franchise that leverages its massive, loyal installed base to build a high-margin, recurring services annuity.

Apple's core thesis rests on its unparalleled ability to sell high-margin hardware to a dedicated customer base, creating an ever-expanding ecosystem. This installed base of over 2.5 billion devices is then monetized through a rapidly growing and even higher-margin Services business. The company's focus on vertical integration with its own silicon provides a key performance and efficiency advantage, particularly as it pushes deeper into AI, which is poised to be the next major catalyst for both hardware upgrades and new service adoption.

What will confirm the thesis

Accelerating growth in the high-margin Services segment, a strong upgrade cycle for a new iPhone launch driven by AI features, or evidence of market share gains in emerging markets like India.

What will damage the thesis

Sustained margin compression due to component costs or competition, significant negative regulatory rulings that force changes to the App Store business model, or a failed product cycle that leads to a shrinking installed base.

Noise: Real but irrelevant to thesis

Short-term quarterly fluctuations in regional sales or minor shifts in market share for a single product category.

Repricing Catalyst

The successful integration and market adoption of 'Apple Intelligence' and a more capable Siri, which could trigger a significant hardware upgrade cycle and introduce new premium service tiers.

What AAPL Makes & Who Pays
TTM figures based on the twelve months through fiscal Q1 2026
iPhone
$225.7B TTM (52% of Total)
What It Is

A line of smartphones based on the iOS operating system, sold to consumers and business customers globally through direct and indirect channels.

Who Pays & How

Consumers and businesses purchase iPhones, often through third-party cellular carriers who may offer subsidies or financing. Customers choose iPhone for its integrated ecosystem, design, performance, camera system, and features like Apple Intelligence.

Unit sales of physical devices.
Competition
Companies offering smartphones on the Android platform.
Competitors often compete through aggressive pricing, very low cost structures, and by imitating Apple's products. Some have broad product lines and large installed bases.
Design and technology innovation, a strong third-party software ecosystem, an integrated hardware-software-services solution, and brand reputation.
Services
$112.8B TTM (26% of Total)
What It Is

A portfolio of services including advertising, AppleCare support, cloud services, digital content platforms (App Store, Apple Music, Apple TV+), and payment services sold to Apple's device user base.

Who Pays & How

Apple device owners pay for services to enhance their hardware experience. This includes subscriptions for content and storage, extended warranties, and commissions paid by developers for access to the App Store's large customer base.

A mix of recurring subscriptions, transactional take-rates/commissions, and advertising fees.
Competition
The large and growing installed base of active devices provides a captive audience for services, creating a powerful ecosystem lock-in.
Wearables, Home and Accessories
$35.4B TTM (8% of Total)
What It Is

A category of products including smartwatches (Apple Watch), wireless headphones (AirPods, Beats), spatial computers (Apple Vision Pro), and home devices (Apple TV, HomePod), sold to consumers.

Who Pays & How

Consumers purchase these products to complement their existing Apple devices and for specific functionalities like health/fitness tracking, audio, and home entertainment. The products are deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem.

Unit sales of physical devices.
Competition
Seamless integration with other Apple products, design, and specialized features (e.g., health monitoring on Apple Watch).
Mac
$33.1B TTM (8% of Total)
What It Is

A line of personal computers (laptops and desktops) based on the macOS operating system, sold to consumers, creative professionals, businesses, and education markets.

Who Pays & How

Individuals and organizations purchase Macs for their performance, design, ease of use, and security, particularly with the advantages of Apple's custom silicon (M-series chips) for tasks including AI development.

Unit sales of physical devices.
Competition
Companies offering personal computers on the Windows platform.
Competitors may offer broader product lines and low-priced products.
Proprietary Apple Silicon chips delivering superior performance-per-watt, a tightly integrated operating system, and a reputation for quality and design.
iPad
$28.5B TTM (7% of Total)
What It Is

A line of multipurpose tablets based on the iPadOS operating system, sold to consumers, students, artists, and business users.

Who Pays & How

Customers purchase iPads for their versatility, portability, and performance, which supports a wide range of activities from content consumption and creation to productivity and learning.

Unit sales of physical devices.
Competition
Companies offering tablets on the Android and Windows platforms.
A strong ecosystem of tablet-specific applications, performance from Apple Silicon, and a reputation for quality and ease of use.
AAPL Evolution: Price Return by Era
· The iPhone Revolution
Following its introduction, the iPhone quickly became the company's dominant revenue and profit driver, establishing a massive global user base and a powerful hardware-centric business model.
c. 2021-2025 · The Services Pivot
+116%
As the smartphone market matured, Apple increasingly focused on monetizing its vast installed base. Through fiscal 2025, Services revenue grew from $68,425 to $109,158, becoming the second-largest segment and a critical driver of margin expansion and overall growth.
Market Appears To Be Aligned With Core Thesis
Price structure is strongly bullish. The regime, trend, and proximity to highs all point towards intact institutional trend. Relative to SPY: Decisively outperforming and improving. Potential evidence of active institutional rotation. Volume and momentum are strongly confirming. The institutional accumulation is evident and momentum is accelerating. Earnings history is strongly validating. The market rewarded the print and institutional follow-through confirms thesis re-rating is underway.
① Structure
+4
Structural pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by trend regime, SMA cross events, proximity to 52W high, and relative strength vs SPY.
② Volume / Momentum
+4
Volume/Momentum pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by institutional footprint score, OBV divergence, and momentum character.
③ Catalyst
+3
Catalyst pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by earnings day reaction, 20D post-earnings drift, and post-earnings volume character.
Combined Score
11 / 12
1 Price Structure & Trend Trending Up · -
2 Momentum Accelerating
3 Relative Strength vs. SPY Strong Outperformance
4 Institutional Footprint & Volume Mild Accumulation
5 Volatility Expanded
6 Key Price Levels Range · Vol Rising
7 Earnings Reaction History Consistent Reward
8 How the Verdict Is Derived Three Pillars
Core Cache Last Updated: 7/22/2026