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Why is Apple stock lagging the S&P 500 in 2025?

Why is Apple stock lagging the S&P 500 in 2025?

  • 18.03.2025 16:27
  • fool.co.uk
  • Keywords: AI, Apple

Apple stock has underperformed compared to the S&P 500 in 2025 due to factors like a tech sector sell-off, high valuation, slowing iPhone sales in China, and delayed AI upgrades. Despite these challenges, Apple remains a strong company with significant cash flow and loyal customers.

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Apple

Apple

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Analyst rating: Buy

The article discusses Apple's stock performance and challenges, including AI issues and iPhone sales slowdown.

Nokia

Nokia

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Analyst rating: Buy

Mentioned as a company that Apple disrupted with the iPhone in 2007.

Context

Analysis of Apple Stock Performance in 2025: Key Insights and Market Implications

Overview

  • Apple stock has grown significantly over five years, up 270%, with a market cap exceeding $3 trillion.
  • Despite this growth, Apple stock is lagging behind the S&P 500 in 2025.

Reasons for Lagging Stock Performance

Market Volatility and Tariffs

  • The technology sector has experienced a sell-off due to uncertainty caused by President Trump's tariffs.
  • This volatility has likely contributed to Apple's stock price fluctuations.

High P/E Ratio

  • Apple is trading at a premium valuation with a 34 times earnings multiple, higher than the S&P 500.
  • Warren Buffett's reduction of his stake in Apple by more than half may reflect concerns about this high valuation.

Slowed iPhone Sales

  • iPhone sales have slowed, particularly in China, due to increased competition and market saturation.
  • Delays in AI upgrades for devices have also impacted performance.

AI Challenges and Future Prospects

Siri Delay and Teething Issues

  • Apple's AI initiatives, such as the AI-equipped Siri, have faced delays, with reports indicating a possible release next year.
  • Despite these challenges, Apple's focus on data privacy by keeping user data on devices could attract privacy-conscious users.

Long-Term Recovery Potential

  • The company is expected to recover from current AI teething problems, as it will take several years for all 2 billion+ iOS users to upgrade to advanced AI devices.
  • The sticky Apple ecosystem is seen as a significant advantage for retaining customers.

Financial Expectations and Valuation

Revenue and Earnings Growth

  • Analysts project 4.6% revenue growth and 8.6% earnings per share (EPS) growth for the year, which is modest compared to its forward earnings multiple of 29 times.

Cash Flow and Buyback Program

  • Apple generated over $100 billion in free cash flow last year.
  • The company announced a record-breaking $110 billion buyback program, the largest in US corporate history, highlighting its financial strength.

Strategic Considerations

Competitive Dynamics

  • While facing challenges from increased competition and AI delays, Apple's strong brand loyalty and ecosystem provide a competitive edge.
  • The delayed AI upgrades are not seen as a significant long-term issue for the company.

Regulatory and Market Implications

  • Tariffs and market uncertainty remain risks, but Apple's ability to adapt and innovate could mitigate these impacts over time.

Conclusion

While Apple faces short-term challenges such as market volatility, high valuations, and AI-related delays, its long-term prospects remain strong. The company's significant cash flow, buyback program, and loyal customer base position it for recovery and sustained growth in the future. Investors may need to weigh these factors against potential opportunities in other stocks with more attractive valuations.