$AAPL - $AAPL

Apple에 대한 매도 수량은 투자자에게 Apple의 주식 하락에 베팅하는 정도를 알려줍니다. 매도 수량 데이터는 2주마다 업데이트됩니다.

Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) 주식, 공매도 수량 보고

Apple

Apple is among the largest companies in the world, with a broad portfolio of hardware and software products targeted at consumers and businesses. Apple's iPhone makes up a majority of the firm sales, and Apple's other products like Mac, iPad, and Watch are designed around the iPhone as the focal point of an expansive software ecosystem. Apple has progressively worked to add new applications, like streaming video, subscription bundles, and augmented reality. The firm designs its own software and semiconductors while working with subcontractors like Foxconn and TSMC to build its products and chips. Slightly less than half of Apple's sales come directly through its flagship stores, with a majority of sales coming indirectly through partnerships and distribution.

Exclusives

Trading Ideas

AAPL

AMZN

SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust

GOOG

GOOGL

MSFT

NVDA

TSLA

벤징가 독자들은 2024년을 마감하고 2025년을 시작하는 산타 클로스 랠리가 있을 경우 어떤 매그니피센트 7 주식이 가장 좋은 실적을 낼 수 있을지 투표했다. 무슨 일이 있었나: 대부분의 매그니피센트 7 주식들은 2024년 연초부터 현재까지 S&amp;P 500을 초과 성과를 보였다. 연말을 마감하는 거래일이 얼마 남지 않은 상황에서, 투자자들이 가장 궁금해하는 질문 중 하나는 산타 클로스 랠리가 있을지 여부이다.

벤징가 여론 조사: 산타 랠리에서 어떤 매그니피센트 7 주식이 가장 좋은 성적을 거둘까?

Entertainment

CMCSA

PARA

PARAA

Sony Group Corporation American Depositary Shares

SONY

월트 디즈니 컴퍼니(NYSE:DIS)가 2024년 미국 박스오피스 1위를 차지했다. 2025년 박스오피스 매출이 8% 증가할 것이라는 새로운 애널리스트의 전망에 따라 강력한 성과를 보일 수 있으며 이는 영화관 경영진에게도 반가운 소식이다.

월트 디즈니, 2024년 미국 박스오피스 20억 달러 달성

Long Ideas

Tech

Interview

ETFs

KQQQ

투자자들은 &#34;조심스러운 낙관론으로 나아가야 한다&#34;고 쿠르브 인베스트먼트 매니지먼트(Kurv Investment Management)의 창립자이자 CEO인 하워드 찬(Howard Chan)이 벤징가와의 독점 인터뷰에서 말했다. 애플(NASDAQ:AAPL)과 테슬라(NASDAQ:TSLA) 같은 기술 리더들이 강력한 펀더멘털을 자랑하고 있지만, 찬은 그들의 가치 평가가 &#34;과도하다&#34;고 말했다.

독점: 애플, 테슬라 2025년 기술 거물 또는 버블 문제? AI, 클라우드 등에 대한 쿠르브 CEO 설명

Apple Inc

Benzinga readers pick which Magnificent 7 stock could have the best performance if there is a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/santa-claus-rally"> Santa Claus rally</a> to close 2024 and kickstart 2025.
What Happened: The majority of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/magnificent-seven">Magnificent 7 stocks </a>have outperformed the S&amp;P 500 year-to-date in 2024. With a limited number of trading days left to close out the year, one last question on the mind of investors is whether there will be a Santa Claus rally.
The term &#8220;Santa Claus rally&#8221; was first used by Yale Hirsch in 1972 in the Stock Trader's Almanac. The term is associated with the last five trading days of a year and the first two days of the following year.
Check This Out: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/24/12/42625025/santa-claus-rally-in-2024-poll-shows-investors-split-on-end-of-year-returns-57-say-this">Santa Claus Rally In 2024? Poll Shows Investors Split On End Of Year Returns, 57% Say This…</a>
Combine the Santa Claus rally potential and the Magnificent 7 outperformance in 2024, and you have the latest Benzinga poll.
"Which Magnificent 7 stock will do the best if there's a Santa Rally?" Benzinga asked.
The results were:
<ul>
<li>NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>): 28%</li>
<li>Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>): 25%</li>
<li>Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>): 17%</li>
<li>Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>)(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>): 9%</li>
<li>Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>): 9%</li>
<li>Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>): 7%</li>
<li>Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>): 5%</li>
</ul>
Nvidia was the winner of the poll with more than one-fourth of the vote, which comes as the stock is the top performer among the Mag 7 stocks for year-to-date and five-year gains. Trailing Nvidia was Tesla, with exactly one-fourth of the vote.
Amazon also received a double-digit percentage ranking third at 17%. The other Mag 7 stocks had much smaller percentages in the poll.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/42143676/which-magnificent-7-stock-should-doj-target-next-benzinga-poll-finds-over-50-say">Which Magnificent 7 Stock Should DOJ Target Next? Benzinga Poll Finds Over 50% Say&#8230;</a>
Why It's Important: The expectation for a Santa Claus Rally comes with major stock market indexes enjoying a strong 2024 and could add to their year-to-date gains.
Here are the current year-to-date returns of three of the largest market index ETFs.
<ul>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>): +23.8%</li>
<li>Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>): +28.1%</li>
<li>SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>): +12.7%</li>
</ul>
For comparison, here are the year-to-date returns of the Magnificent 7 stocks:
<ul>
<li>Nvidia: +177.8%</li>
<li>Tesla: +77.4%</li>
<li>Meta Platforms: +72.9%</li>
<li>Amazon: +49.8%</li>
<li>Alphabet: +38.3%</li>
<li>Apple: +35.8%</li>
<li>Microsoft: +18.7%</li>
</ul>
Nvidia has significantly outperformed the S&amp;P 500 and other major indexes and also the other Magnificent 7 stocks. The Benzinga poll shows that readers think Nvidia could go out on a high note in 2024 and kick 2025 off with a bang if there is a Santa Claus rally.
Only Microsoft trails the S&amp;P 500 and Invesco QQQ Trust year-to-date returns in 2024, showing the strength of the Magnificent 7 stocks this year. 
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/42121665/could-another-magnificent-7-stock-beat-nvidia-in-2025-poll-says-not-likely-27-pick-this-potential-winner">A recent Benzinga poll</a> asked if any Magnificent 7 stocks could beat Nvidia for stock returns in 2025. The results were:
<ul>
<li>None – Nvidia will dominate: 48%</li>
<li>Tesla: 27%</li>
<li>Amazon: 8%</li>
<li>Meta: 7%</li>
<li>Alphabet: 6%</li>
<li>Microsoft: 3%</li>
<li>Apple: 2%</li>
</ul>
The poll found the near-majority predicting Nvidia will have the strongest growth in 2025 and dominate the Magnificent 7 stocks once again.
Based on the recent polls, Benzinga readers don't expect the gains for Nvidia to stop anytime soon and a Santa Claus rally could accelerate the company's potential 2025 gains.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42352997/santa-rally-here-are-10-sp-500-stocks-that-historically-outperformed-in-decembers-second-half">Santa Rally: 10 S&amp;P 500 Stocks That Outperform In December&#8217;s Second Half</a></li>
</ul>
The study was conducted by Benzinga from Dec. 18 through Dec. 19, 2024, and included the responses of a diverse population of adults 18 or older. Opting into the survey was completely voluntary, with no incentives offered to potential respondents. The study reflects results from 169 adults.
Image created using photos from Shutterstock.

Which Magnificent 7 Stock Will Do Best In Santa Claus Rally? Tesla Edged Out As 28% Select…

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>NVDA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$135.00</td>
<td>$39.0K</td>
<td>126.0K</td>
<td>193.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AAPL</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$252.50</td>
<td>$26.8K</td>
<td>51.3K</td>
<td>64.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PLTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$276.2K</td>
<td>26.3K</td>
<td>35.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$27.9K</td>
<td>25.3K</td>
<td>5.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSFT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$430.00</td>
<td>$65.7K</td>
<td>377</td>
<td>5.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AVGO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$290.00</td>
<td>$43.4K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MU</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$25.4K</td>
<td>14.0K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$365.00</td>
<td>$332.5K</td>
<td>563</td>
<td>836</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ANET</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$34.9K</td>
<td>212</td>
<td>616</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DELL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$105.00</td>
<td>$807.0K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
<td>601</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• For NVDA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, is expiring today. Parties traded 674 contract(s) at a $135.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 9 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $39.0K, with a price of $58.0 per contract. There were 126041 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 193782 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AAPL (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, is expiring today. Parties traded 200 contract(s) at a $252.50 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $26.8K, with a price of $134.0 per contract. There were 51345 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 64253 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For PLTR (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be neutral, is expiring today. Parties traded 850 contract(s) at a $75.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $276.2K, with a price of $325.0 per contract. There were 26362 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 35154 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AMD (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 28 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 99 contract(s) at a $130.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.9K, with a price of $282.0 per contract. There were 25310 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 5644 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MSFT (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 238 day(s) on August 15, 2025. This event was a transfer of 27 contract(s) at a $430.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $65.7K, with a price of $2435.0 per contract. There were 377 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 5131 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AVGO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 63 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 180 contract(s) at a $290.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $43.4K, with a price of $241.0 per contract. There were 2010 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2567 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MU (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MU#NASDAQ">MU</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 28 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 1958 contract(s) at a $65.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 38 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.4K, with a price of $13.0 per contract. There were 14009 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2066 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MSTR (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 28 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 100 contract(s) at a $365.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $332.5K, with a price of $3325.0 per contract. There were 563 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 836 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ANET (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ANET#NYSE">ANET</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 91 day(s) on March 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 200 contract(s) at a $150.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 16 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $34.9K, with a price of $175.0 per contract. There were 212 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 616 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding DELL (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DELL#NYSE">DELL</a>), we observe a put option trade with neutral sentiment. It expires in 392 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 600 contract(s) at a $105.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $807.0K, with a price of $1345.0 per contract. There were 1579 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 601 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more news on unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Options

ANET

AVGO

DELL

MSTR

PLTR

10 Information Technology Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

In today's rapidly evolving and fiercely competitive business landscape, it is crucial for investors and industry analysts to conduct comprehensive company evaluations. In this article, we will undertake an in-depth industry comparison, assessing Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) alongside its primary competitors in the Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals industry. By meticulously examining crucial financial indicators, market positioning, and growth potential, we aim to provide valuable insights to investors and shed light on company's performance within the industry.
<h3>Apple Background</h3>
Apple is among the largest companies in the world, with a broad portfolio of hardware and software products targeted at consumers and businesses. Apple's iPhone makes up a majority of the firm sales, and Apple's other products like Mac, iPad, and Watch are designed around the iPhone as the focal point of an expansive software ecosystem. Apple has progressively worked to add new applications, like streaming video, subscription bundles, and augmented reality. The firm designs its own software and semiconductors while working with subcontractors like Foxconn and TSMC to build its products and chips. Slightly less than half of Apple's sales come directly through its flagship stores, with a majority of sales coming indirectly through partnerships and distribution.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Company</th>
<th>P/E</th>
<th>P/B</th>
<th>P/S</th>
<th>ROE</th>
<th>EBITDA (in billions)</th>
<th>Gross Profit (in billions)</th>
<th>Revenue Growth</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Apple Inc</td>
<td>41.08</td>
<td>66.30</td>
<td>9.84</td>
<td>23.83%</td>
<td>$32.5</td>
<td>$43.88</td>
<td>6.07%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co</td>
<td>10.82</td>
<td>1.11</td>
<td>0.93</td>
<td>5.72%</td>
<td>$1.23</td>
<td>$2.44</td>
<td>9.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NetApp Inc</td>
<td>21.47</td>
<td>26.57</td>
<td>3.81</td>
<td>32.84%</td>
<td>$0.44</td>
<td>$1.18</td>
<td>6.15%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Western Digital Corp</td>
<td>65.52</td>
<td>1.77</td>
<td>1.39</td>
<td>4.28%</td>
<td>$0.86</td>
<td>$1.55</td>
<td>48.91%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pure Storage Inc</td>
<td>159.85</td>
<td>14.42</td>
<td>7.22</td>
<td>4.44%</td>
<td>$0.08</td>
<td>$0.54</td>
<td>8.81%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Super Micro Computer Inc</td>
<td>15.55</td>
<td>3.34</td>
<td>1.26</td>
<td>6.68%</td>
<td>$0.4</td>
<td>$0.6</td>
<td>37.87%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eastman Kodak Co</td>
<td>9.83</td>
<td>0.56</td>
<td>0.60</td>
<td>1.34%</td>
<td>$0.04</td>
<td>$0.04</td>
<td>-2.97%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Turtle Beach Corp</td>
<td>52.13</td>
<td>3.19</td>
<td>0.96</td>
<td>3.3%</td>
<td>$0.01</td>
<td>$0.03</td>
<td>59.51%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AstroNova Inc</td>
<td>25.49</td>
<td>1.06</td>
<td>0.64</td>
<td>0.26%</td>
<td>$0.0</td>
<td>$0.01</td>
<td>7.65%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Average</td>
<td>45.08</td>
<td>6.5</td>
<td>2.1</td>
<td>7.36%</td>
<td>$0.38</td>
<td>$0.8</td>
<td>21.95%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<style>
 table {
 width: 100%;
 border-collapse: collapse;
 font-family: Arial, sans-serif;
 font-size: 14px;
 }

 th, td {
 padding: 8px;
 text-align: left;
 }

 th {
 background-color: #293a5a;
 color: #fff;
 text-align: left;
 }

 tr:nth-child(even) {
 background-color: #f2f4f8;
 }

 tr:hover {
 background-color: #e1e4ea;
 }

 td:nth-child(3), td:nth-child(5) {
 text-align: left;
 }

 .dividend-amount {
 font-weight: bold;
 color: #0d6efd;
 }

 .dividend-frequency {
 font-size: 12px;
 color: #6c757d;
 }
 </style>By closely examining Apple, we can identify the following trends: 
<ul>
<li>
At 41.08, the stock's Price to Earnings ratio is 0.91x less than the industry average, suggesting favorable growth potential.
</li>
<li>
The elevated Price to Book ratio of 66.3 relative to the industry average by 10.2x suggests company might be overvalued based on its book value.
</li>
<li>
With a relatively high Price to Sales ratio of 9.84, which is 4.69x the industry average, the stock might be considered overvalued based on sales performance.
</li>
<li>
With a Return on Equity (ROE) of 23.83% that is 16.47% above the industry average, it appears that the company exhibits efficient use of equity to generate profits.
</li>
<li>
The company exhibits higher Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) of $32.5 Billion, which is 85.53x above the industry average, implying stronger profitability and robust cash flow generation.
</li>
<li>
With higher gross profit of $43.88 Billion, which indicates 54.85x above the industry average, the company demonstrates stronger profitability and higher earnings from its core operations.
</li>
<li>
With a revenue growth of 6.07%, which is much lower than the industry average of 21.95%, the company is experiencing a notable slowdown in sales expansion.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Debt To Equity Ratio</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734706825_0.png" alt="debt to equity" />
The debt-to-equity (D/E) ratio measures the financial leverage of a company by evaluating its debt relative to its equity.
Considering the debt-to-equity ratio in industry comparisons allows for a concise evaluation of a company's financial health and risk profile, aiding in informed decision-making.
In terms of the Debt-to-Equity ratio, Apple can be assessed by comparing it to its top 4 peers, resulting in the following observations:
<ul>
<li>
Apple is positioned in the middle in terms of the debt-to-equity ratio compared to its top 4 peers.
</li>
<li>
This suggests a balanced financial structure, where the company maintains a moderate level of debt while also relying on equity financing with a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.87.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Takeaways</h3>
For Apple in the Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals industry, the PE, PB, and PS ratios indicate that the stock is relatively undervalued compared to its peers. However, the high ROE, EBITDA, gross profit, and low revenue growth suggest that Apple is efficiently utilizing its resources and generating strong profits, despite slower revenue growth. Overall, Apple's financial performance is solid, with room for potential growth in the future.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

News

Markets

Insights Into Apple's Performance Versus Peers In Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals Sector

<ul>
<li>TSLA</li>
<li>NVDA</li>
<li>AMD</li>
<li>MSTR</li>
<li>NVO</li>
<li>QQQ</li>
<li>CORN</li>
<li>$BTC</li>
<li>RKLB</li>
<li>AAPL</li>
</ul>
Data from <a href="https://swaggystocks.com/dashboard/wallstreetbets/ticker-sentiment">https://swaggystocks.com/dashboard/wallstreetbets/ticker-sentiment</a>
&nbsp;

$BTC

CORN

RKLB

Top 10 Trending Stocks On WallStreetBets As Of December 20, 2024 (Via Swaggy Stocks)

Broadcom Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) chief Hock Tan expressed enormous conviction over the sustainability of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/ai" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence frenzy</a> as Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google, Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) and TikTok parent ByteDance splurged on designing custom processors that accelerate training and deployment of AI systems, the Financial Times reports.
Reportedly, OpenAI and Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) also tapped Broadcom to develop their AI server chips to diversify their exposure to Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>).
Broadcom stock has surged over 101% year-to-date.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/downgrades/24/12/42561430/match-group-analyst-flags-tinder-woes-industry-challenges-for-stock-downgrade" rel="noreferrer noopener">Match Group Analyst Flags Tinder Woes, Industry Challenges For Stock Downgrade</a>
Tan <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ft.com/content/5b4160b7-6920-4bf2-a1a8-f1404b513d8f" rel="noreferrer noopener">told</a> FT that he expected the demand to continue for at least ten years, citing their enormous return potential.
Tan stressed to the FT that clients were intensely ramping up AI infrastructure investment plans spanning three to five years.
He does not expect the phenomenon to lose steam until his clients run out of finances.
Last week, Tan told investors Broadcom <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42488220" rel="noreferrer noopener">could generate</a> tens of billions of dollars in additional annual revenue from AI chips by 2027.
Tan&#8217;s experience and dealmaking prowess fuelled speculation of rescuing struggling chipmaker Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>). However, Tan claimed no hostile offers since 2018, when it was tracking Qualcomm Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>), which succumbed to regulatory opposition.
Tan backed his thesis by citing investments by OpenAI and Elon Musk&#8217;s xAI in data centers in 2024.
Tan told the FT that its customers will build clusters of up to 1 million AI chips by 2027. However, Tan said that even 1 million chips may not suffice the AI ambitions of OpenAI and Anthropic.
Broadcom&#8217;s stock price rallied 24% in a single day last Friday after its AI revenues had surged by 220% in fiscal 2024. The chipmaker added over $200 billion to its market cap, breaching the $1 trillion milestone for the first time.
Rosenblatt&#8217;s Hans Mosesmann&nbsp;expects <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42489281/broadcoms-ai-chip-leadership-puts-pressure-on-nvidia-and-marvell-analysts-say" rel="noreferrer noopener">Broadcom&#8217;s growing moat</a> in expanding custom-chip (ASIC) AI and surging AI opportunities to intensify the rivalry with Advanced Micro Devices, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>) and Nvidia. B of A Securities&#8216; Vivek Arya&nbsp;credited Broadcom with maintaining a position at customer Apple.
Investors can gain exposure to Broadcom through Amplify ETF Trust Amplify Cybersecurity ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HACK#NYSE">HACK</a>) and First Trust NASDAQ Technology Dividend Index Fund (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TDIV#NASDAQ">TDIV</a>).
Price Action:&nbsp;AVGO stock closed lower by 2.37% at $218.32 Thursday.
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42561240/salesforces-ai-powered-agentforce-20-spurs-analyst-upgrades-and-growth-optimism" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wall Street Analysts Are Bullish On Salesforce&#8217;s AI Vision &#8211; Here&#8217;s Why</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

Movers

Media

HACK

INTC

QCOM

TDIV

Broadcom Expects Decade-Long AI Chip Boom as Big Tech Invest Billions

Marques Brownlee, also known as MKBHD, has announced the Samsung Electronics Co.'s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) Galaxy S24 Ultra as his top smartphone pick for 2024.
What Happened: In a video shared on Thursday, Brownlee praised the Galaxy S24 Ultra for its comprehensive excellence, including its screen, chip, battery, cameras, software, and durability.&nbsp;
He noted that even the anti-reflective coating and vibration motor are superior.
&#8220;This phone is 2024 Scottie Scheffler,&#8221; he said, adding, &#8220;It&#8217;s [Galaxy S24 Ultra] not making a ton of headlines for any one flashy thing or any one bad thing. It&#8217;s just so good.&#8221;
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42546621/elon-musk-agrees-as-satya-nadella-reflects-on-ais-global-impact-in-2024-from-cancer-research-to-rainforest-conservation-and-more?itm_source=parsely-api">Elon Musk Agrees With Satya Nadella As Microsoft CEO Reflects On &#8216;Incredible Speed&#8217; Of AI Diffusion In 2024</a>
Brownlee also mentioned other notable smartphones, such as the Vivo X200 Pro and Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) subsidiary Google&#8217;s Pixel 9 Pro Fold for their features.
Apple Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) iPhone 16 was recognized as a complete base device without the high price tag of the Pro version.
&#8220;This was the most complete base iPhone they&#8217;ve ever made,&#8221; Brownlee stated, adding, &#8220;This was a really good year for not spending $1,500 on an iPhone.&#8221;
Here are all the smartphones that received awards from Brownlee under different categories:
Best Big Phone: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Best Small Phone: iPhone 16
Best Camera: iPhone 16 Pro
Best Value: Nothing Phone 2A
Best Battery: RedMagic 10 Pro
Best Design: Huawei Mate XT
Best Foldable: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Most Improved: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Bust of the Year: Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra
And MVP (Phone of the Year): Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Smartphone Awards 2024!" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/E76CUtSHMrU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</figure>
Why It Matters: Counterpoint Research in May said that Samsung's Galaxy S24 series led the GenAI-capable smartphone market during the first quarter of 2024.
According to Statista, Samsung&#8217;s Mobile Experience (MX) division brought in around $21.6 billion in revenue by the third quarter of 2024, solidifying its position as the company's top revenue generator.
The South Korean <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42545936/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-and-s25-leaks-show-off-sleek-curved-design-and-slimmer-bezels-than-apples-iphone-16-pro-max">tech giant is now preparing</a> to launch Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and S25+.
However, despite its strong performance, Samsung faces fierce competition from Apple and China's Huawei Technologies.
Last year, Apple dominated the global smartphone market, capturing the top seven spots in the <a href="https://www.counterpointresearch.com/insights/apple-captures-top-7-spots-in-global-top-10-best-selling-smartphones/">list of best-selling smartphones</a>, according to Counterpoint Research.
Samsung secured three positions, marking an improvement from 2022.
Apple set a new iPhone sales record in the third quarter of 2024. According to Canalys, Apple and Samsung both held an 18% market share, though Samsung's dipped 3% year-over-year, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41328252/apples-iphone-16-powers-record-sales-in-q3-just-behind-samsung-in-global-market-share-battle">while Apple's grew by 1%</a>.
Samsung launched its latest devices in July, but Apple's iPhone 16 series, released on Sept. 9, delivered strong sales in just a few weeks.
Price Action: Apple&#8217;s stock edged up by 0.70% on Thursday, finishing the day at $249.79. Year-to-date, the company&#8217;s shares have surged 34.56%, outpacing the Nasdaq 100 index, which has grown by 27.6% in the same period, according to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com/">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42568430/senate-minority-leader-mcconnell-urges-supreme-court-to-reject-tiktoks-delay-request-pushing-for-january-ban-amid-first-amendment-debate?itm_source=parsely-api">Mitch McConnell Urges Supreme Court To Reject TikTok&#8217;s Delay Request, Says Platform Hoping For Less Hostile DOJ In Trump Administration</a></li>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Samsung

SSNLF

MKBHD's Smartphone Of The Year 2024 Is Here, And Apple Fans Won't Be Happy

Samsung Electronics Co. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) Galaxy S22 users face severe issues following the One UI 6.1.1 update.
What Happened: Released in September 2024, the update has caused devices to become permanently bricked, with some users also experiencing random reboots and overheating problems.
Affected users have been advised by Samsung&#8217;s customer support to replace the phone&#8217;s motherboard, which is costly as the devices are out of warranty.
The issue seems to primarily affect Exynos 2200-powered Galaxy S22 units in Europe and parts of Asia.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42525551/ahead-of-trumps-return-to-white-house-us-approves-406m-grant-for-taiwans-chipmaker-globalwafers?itm_source=parsely-api">Ahead Of Trump&#8217;s Return To White House, US Approves $406M Grant For Taiwan&#8217;s Chipmaker GlobalWafers</a>
&#8220;I've tried everything Samsung suggested: clearing the cache, factory resets—you name it. Nothing worked,&#8221; one user complained on Samsung's official online forum.
Adding, &#8220;I even had a Samsung repair tech come to my house. They suggested my motherboard needs to be replaced but refused to fix it under warranty because of a small, superficial crack on my screen (which can barely even be picked up by a camera).&#8221;
Samsung did not immediately respond to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga's</a> request for comments.
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: The South Korean smartphone maker reported a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/10/41645191/samsung-profits-soar-but-companys-nvidia-ai-chip-race-lag-allows-sk-hynix-micron-to-take-the-lead-in">net income of 9.78 trillion won</a> ($7.1 billion) for the quarter ending in September.
Earlier this year, Samsung also announced plans to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40812318/samsung-to-reportedly-slash-global-workforce-by-up-to-30-in-certain-divisions-amid-intense-competiti">reduce its global workforce</a> by up to 30% in certain divisions, amid fierce competition from Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Huawei Technologies.
According to Statista, Samsung Electronics&#8217; Mobile Experience (MX) division brought in approximately $21.6 billion as of the third quarter of 2024, making it the top revenue driver.
The tech giant is currently preparing for the launch of its Galaxy S25 series, featuring a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42545936/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-and-s25-leaks-show-off-sleek-curved-design-and-slimmer-bezels-than-apples-iphone-16-pro-max">sleek design and running</a> on One UI 7.
Image Courtesy &#8211; Samsung
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42499566/google-willow-nvidias-china-troubles-trump-on-ai-and-more-this-week-in-artificial-intelligence?itm_source=parsely-api">Google Willow, Nvidia's China Troubles, Trump On AI, And More: This Week In Artificial Intelligence</a></li>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Samsung One UI 6.1.1 Update Is Turning This Galaxy Series Phones Into Paperweights: Bricking, Random Reboots And Overheating Reported

The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>) takes top honors for domestic box office in 2024 and could be in store for a strong 2025 with a new analyst forecast calling for box office revenue to grow 8% in 2025, which is likely music to the ears of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/41790068/amc-ceo-is-confident-and-optimistic-about-cinema-chains-future-as-q3-earnings-show-revenue-beat-rec">movie theater executives.</a>
2024 Box Office Winners: Disney is the only movie studio to hit the $2 billion figure for the domestic box office in 2024, led <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/08/40319102/disneys-deadpool-wolverine-hits-1b-d23-unveils-new-sequels-theme-park-expansions-fortnite-c">by hits like</a> "Inside Out 2," "Deadpool &amp; Wolverine" and the recently released "Moana 2."
This marks the second time that Disney hit the $2 billion figure since 2019, with the most recent milestone achieved in 2022, as reported by <a href="https://deadline.com/2024/12/box-office-disney-2024-1236209611/">Deadline</a>. Since 2010, Disney has reached $2 billion domestically seven times.
Disney will add to its year total with the release of "Mufasa" in theaters this weekend.
Here is a look at the top-grossing movies <a href="https://www.boxofficemojo.com/year/2024/?ref_=bo_yl_table_1">domestically </a>in 2024 and the public company behind the respective studio.
<ol>
<li>"Inside Out 2": $653.0 million, Disney</li>
<li>"Deadpool &amp; Wolverine": $636.7 million, Disney</li>
<li>"Wicked": $365.2 million, Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>)</li>
<li>"Despicable Me 4": $361.0 million, Comcast</li>
<li>"Moana 2": $342.1 million, Disney</li>
<li>"Beetlejuice Beetlejuice": $294.1 million, Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>)</li>
<li>"Dune: Part Two": $282.1 million, Warner Bros. Discovery</li>
<li>"Twisters": $267.8 million, Comcast</li>
<li>"Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire": $196.4 million, Warner Bros. Discovery</li>
<li>"Kung Fu Panda 4": $193.6 million, Comcast</li>
</ol>
"Inside Out 2" is the 11th highest-grossing movie domestically of all time and the highest-grossing animated film of all time domestically. "Deadpool &amp; Wolverine" set records for R-rated films and is the 12th highest-grossing film domestically of all time.
The top 10 list was led by Disney, Comcast, and Warner Bros., three companies that took home top scores in <a href="https://variety.com/2024/film/news/2024-box-office-numbers-movie-studios-disney-universal-paramount-1236236541/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Variety's </a>movie studios&#8217; year-end grades.
Disney earned an A rating, following a challenging 2023 in which the company failed to produce a $1 billion global grosser for the first time since 2014, excluding the pandemic years. The media giant has seen two films surpass the $1 billion mark globally this year and could add a third with &#8220;Moana 2,&#8221; which is projected to reach the milestone in December or January.
Comcast's Universal brand received an A- score thanks to the hits in the top 10 list and "The Wild Robot," which grossed over $300 million worldwide.
"Universal pulled off the seemingly impossible: Making musicals seem cool to moviegoers," Variety writes of the success of "Wicked."
Variety hands Warner Bros. a B+ rating with several hits among the top 10 grossing films, but a couple of films that underperformed including "Joker: Folie a Deux" at $206 million worldwide, calling it a "costly flop."
Here were the other Variety grades for movie studios:
<ul>
<li>Paramount Global (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PARA#NASDAQ">PARA</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PARAA#NASDAQ">PARAA</a>): B</li>
<li>Sony Group Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>): B</li>
<li>Amazon MGM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>): C</li>
<li>Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>): D</li>
<li>Lionsgate (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LGF#NYSE">LGF</a>): D</li>
</ul>
Tech giants Amazon and Apple scored among the worst, as sometimes they have movies that flop in theaters but later <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/12/42537187/christmas-movie-with-the-rock-flops-at-box-office-breaks-streaming-records-for-this-company">break streaming records.</a>
Read Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42422496/inside-out-2-deadpool-wolverine-baby-reindeer-dominate-entertainment-searches-on-google-in-2024-top-10-movies-tv-shows-and-more"> &#8216;Inside Out 2,&#8217; &#8216;Deadpool &amp; Wolverine,&#8217; &#8216;Baby Reindeer&#8217; Google&#8217;s Top 2024 Entertainment Searches</a>
2025 Projections: News of Disney hitting the $2 billion domestic milestone comes with more potential good news<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/41790068/amc-ceo-is-confident-and-optimistic-about-cinema-chains-future-as-q3-earnings-show-revenue-beat-rec"> </a>for the movie sector and movie theater companies like AMC Entertainment Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMC#NYSE">AMC</a>) and Cinemark Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CNK#NYSE">CNK</a>).
Gower Street Analytics projects the global box office will reach $33 billion in 2025, an 8% increase from the estimated $30.5 billion total expected for 2024.
While the 2025 figure is expected to grow, it will be 14% behind the average of the 2017, 2018 and 2019 years before the COVID-19 pandemic, as reported by <a href="https://deadline.com/2024/12/2025-global-box-office-projection-1236237776/">Deadline</a>.
Gower Street Analytics predicts the North American box office will hit $9.7 billion in 2025, up 9% from the predicted 2024 year-end figure. The domestic box office stands at $8 billion currently, as reported by <a href="https://www.boxofficemojo.com/year/?ref_=bo_nb_hm_secondarytab">BoxOfficeMojo</a>.
The $9.7 billion estimate is 16% below the 2017-2019 average.
Overall, many regions are expected to see higher box office figures in 2025 compared to 2024, but the estimates in most regions are still below the averages from the pre-pandemic era.
"2025 is set to be a strong year for the global box office, fueled by robust studio slates and independent productions," Gower Street Analytics CEO Dimitrios Mitsinikos said.
Mitsinikos said the domestic box office could potentially surpass the $10 billion figure and get "closer to pre-pandemic norms."
The 2025 release slate includes films in the Avatar, Mission: Impossible, Jurassic World, John Wick, Zootopia, Superman and Wicked film franchises.
Read Next: 
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Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Disney Hits $2 Billion Domestic Box Office, Earns Top Honors

In today's rapidly evolving and fiercely competitive business landscape, it is crucial for investors and industry analysts to conduct comprehensive company evaluations. In this article, we will undertake an in-depth industry comparison, assessing Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) alongside its primary competitors in the Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals industry. By meticulously examining crucial financial indicators, market positioning, and growth potential, we aim to provide valuable insights to investors and shed light on company's performance within the industry.
<h3>Apple Background</h3>
Apple is among the largest companies in the world, with a broad portfolio of hardware and software products targeted at consumers and businesses. Apple's iPhone makes up a majority of the firm sales, and Apple's other products like Mac, iPad, and Watch are designed around the iPhone as the focal point of an expansive software ecosystem. Apple has progressively worked to add new applications, like streaming video, subscription bundles, and augmented reality. The firm designs its own software and semiconductors while working with subcontractors like Foxconn and TSMC to build its products and chips. Slightly less than half of Apple's sales come directly through its flagship stores, with a majority of sales coming indirectly through partnerships and distribution.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Company</th>
<th>P/E</th>
<th>P/B</th>
<th>P/S</th>
<th>ROE</th>
<th>EBITDA (in billions)</th>
<th>Gross Profit (in billions)</th>
<th>Revenue Growth</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Apple Inc</td>
<td>40.80</td>
<td>65.84</td>
<td>9.77</td>
<td>23.83%</td>
<td>$32.5</td>
<td>$43.88</td>
<td>6.07%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co</td>
<td>10.67</td>
<td>1.08</td>
<td>0.91</td>
<td>5.72%</td>
<td>$1.23</td>
<td>$2.44</td>
<td>9.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NetApp Inc</td>
<td>21.78</td>
<td>26.96</td>
<td>3.86</td>
<td>32.84%</td>
<td>$0.44</td>
<td>$1.18</td>
<td>6.15%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Western Digital Corp</td>
<td>69.85</td>
<td>1.89</td>
<td>1.48</td>
<td>4.28%</td>
<td>$0.86</td>
<td>$1.55</td>
<td>48.91%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pure Storage Inc</td>
<td>160.49</td>
<td>14.48</td>
<td>7.25</td>
<td>4.44%</td>
<td>$0.08</td>
<td>$0.54</td>
<td>8.81%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Super Micro Computer Inc</td>
<td>16.05</td>
<td>3.45</td>
<td>1.30</td>
<td>6.68%</td>
<td>$0.4</td>
<td>$0.6</td>
<td>37.87%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eastman Kodak Co</td>
<td>9.63</td>
<td>0.55</td>
<td>0.59</td>
<td>1.34%</td>
<td>$0.04</td>
<td>$0.04</td>
<td>-2.97%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Turtle Beach Corp</td>
<td>51.76</td>
<td>3.16</td>
<td>0.95</td>
<td>3.3%</td>
<td>$0.01</td>
<td>$0.03</td>
<td>59.51%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AstroNova Inc</td>
<td>26.24</td>
<td>1.09</td>
<td>0.66</td>
<td>0.26%</td>
<td>$0.0</td>
<td>$0.01</td>
<td>7.65%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Average</td>
<td>45.81</td>
<td>6.58</td>
<td>2.12</td>
<td>7.36%</td>
<td>$0.38</td>
<td>$0.8</td>
<td>21.95%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<style>
 table {
 width: 100%;
 border-collapse: collapse;
 font-family: Arial, sans-serif;
 font-size: 14px;
 }

 th, td {
 padding: 8px;
 text-align: left;
 }

 th {
 background-color: #293a5a;
 color: #fff;
 text-align: left;
 }

 tr:nth-child(even) {
 background-color: #f2f4f8;
 }

 tr:hover {
 background-color: #e1e4ea;
 }

 td:nth-child(3), td:nth-child(5) {
 text-align: left;
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 font-weight: bold;
 color: #0d6efd;
 }

 .dividend-frequency {
 font-size: 12px;
 color: #6c757d;
 }
 </style>By carefully studying Apple, we can deduce the following trends: 
<ul>
<li>
A Price to Earnings ratio of 40.8 significantly below the industry average by 0.89x suggests undervaluation. This can make the stock appealing for those seeking growth.
</li>
<li>
With a Price to Book ratio of 65.84, which is 10.01x the industry average, Apple might be considered overvalued in terms of its book value, as it is trading at a higher multiple compared to its industry peers.
</li>
<li>
The stock's relatively high Price to Sales ratio of 9.77, surpassing the industry average by 4.61x, may indicate an aspect of overvaluation in terms of sales performance.
</li>
<li>
The Return on Equity (ROE) of 23.83% is 16.47% above the industry average, highlighting efficient use of equity to generate profits.
</li>
<li>
The Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) of $32.5 Billion is 85.53x above the industry average, highlighting stronger profitability and robust cash flow generation.
</li>
<li>
With higher gross profit of $43.88 Billion, which indicates 54.85x above the industry average, the company demonstrates stronger profitability and higher earnings from its core operations.
</li>
<li>
The company's revenue growth of 6.07% is significantly below the industry average of 21.95%. This suggests a potential struggle in generating increased sales volume.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Debt To Equity Ratio</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734620427_0.png" alt="debt to equity" />
The debt-to-equity (D/E) ratio is a financial metric that helps determine the level of financial risk associated with a company's capital structure.
Considering the debt-to-equity ratio in industry comparisons allows for a concise evaluation of a company's financial health and risk profile, aiding in informed decision-making.
When evaluating Apple alongside its top 4 peers in terms of the Debt-to-Equity ratio, the following insights arise:
<ul>
<li>
Apple falls in the middle of the list when considering the debt-to-equity ratio.
</li>
<li>
This indicates that the company has a moderate level of debt relative to its equity with a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.87, suggesting a balanced financial structure with a reasonable debt-equitymix.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Takeaways</h3>
For Apple in the Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals industry, the PE ratio is low compared to peers, indicating potential undervaluation. The high PB and PS ratios suggest that the market values Apple's assets and sales highly. Apple's high ROE, EBITDA, and gross profit reflect strong profitability, while the low revenue growth may indicate a need for expansion strategies to align with industry trends.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

In-Depth Analysis: Apple Versus Competitors In Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals Industry

"Investors should proceed with cautious optimism," Howard Chan, founder and CEO of Kurv Investment Management, told Benzinga in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/exclusives">an exclusive interview</a>. 
While tech leaders like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) boast strong fundamentals, Chan said their valuations are "stretched."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Apple, Tesla: Stretched Valuations But Long-Term Potential</h2>
Apple and Tesla, often regarded as bellwethers for tech innovation, are facing increasing scrutiny from investors. Chan noted their dominant positions in their respective markets but emphasized the risks tied to their lofty valuations.
Apple's recent focus on AI and augmented reality has garnered attention, but investors may need to weigh its ability to expand its hardware and software ecosystem sustainably, he told Benzinga. Meanwhile, Tesla's rapid scale in electric vehicles is undeniable, but competition from legacy automakers and new entrants has intensified.
Chan underscores a critical point for both giants: "A correction is not a question of if but when." Despite this, he advises against completely exiting the tech sector, citing potential tax implications and the challenges of timing reentry.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Strategic Insights</h2>
For those eyeing diversification, Chan recommends the Kurv Technology Titans Select ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KQQQ#NASDAQ">KQQQ</a>), which he says "balances momentum weighting during bull cycles with income generation during downturns." This strategy could mitigate risks while maintaining exposure to tech leaders like Apple and Tesla.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Beyond The Giants</h2>
Cloud computing remains a strong growth segment, with giants like Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) and Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) positioned for further international expansion.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42569744/apple-reportedly-in-talks-with-tencent-tiktok-parent-bytedance-to-roll-out-ai-features-in-china">Apple Reportedly In Talks With Tencent, TikTok-Parent ByteDance To Roll Out AI Features In China</a>
Chan sees a similar pattern of cautious optimism for AI-focused firms, highlighting the &#8220;delivery risk&#8221; they face.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hardware To Power Future Gains</h2>
Chan sees parallels in the growth trajectory of Apple and Tesla with the broader AI hardware sector. He predicts that "chipmakers and cloud computing service providers" will benefit from increased capital expenditures, a trend that could also support Apple's and Tesla's innovation pipelines in areas like AI, EVs and autonomous driving.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42575664/__trashed-341">Tesla Reportedly In Talks With Austin To Bring Autonomous Vehicles To Texas Roads: Elon Musk-Led EV Giant Rises 3% In Pre Market</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Apple CEO Tim Cook &#x7C; Photos courtesy: Shutterstock and Flickr

EXCLUSIVE: Are Apple, Tesla 2025's Tech Titans Or Bubble Trouble? Kurv CEO Dishes On AI, Cloud And More

Chinese tech giants are making substantial gains, challenging the dominance of established players like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) in the global wrist-worn device market.&nbsp;
What Happened: According to an IDC report released on Wednesday, the global wrist-worn device market, including smartwatches and wristbands, saw shipments reach 139 million units in the first three quarters of 2024.
Despite a 1% decline due to market saturation in key regions like the U.S. and India, China emerged as a leader with 45.8 million units shipped, marking a 20.1% year-on-year increase.
Huawei Technologies led the global market with 23.6 million units shipped, capturing a 16.9% market share. The brand&#8217;s GT5 series and Watch D2 were particularly popular.
Apple followed with 22.5 million shipments, holding a 16.2% market share. The tech giant experienced a 12.8% decline from the last year due to intense competition.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42514226/shiba-inu-burn-rate-surges-3609-as-dogecoin-whales-move-5-8-billion-doge-what-is-going-on?itm_source=parsely-api">Shiba Inu Burn Rate Surges 3,609% As Dogecoin Whales Move 5.8 Billion DOGE: What Is Going On?</a>
Xiaomi Corp. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACF#OTC">XIACF</a>) ranked third with 20.5 million shipments and a 14.7% market share.
Samsung and the BBK Group, the parent company of brands like Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus, and Realme, followed with 11.5 million and 7.8 million units, respectively.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/19035758/Screenshot-2024-12-19-at-2.27.50%E2%80%AFPM-1024x495.png" alt="" class="wp-image-699220" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Source: IDC</figcaption></figure>
Looking forward, IDC anticipates a 3.2% year-on-year growth in the Chinese market, with 62.5 million shipments expected in 2025, driven by diversified sales channels and improved health sensor accuracy.
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: Apple's troubles with its Chinese counterparts are not limited to just wrist-worn devices. Earlier this year in July it was reported that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39954971/apple-drops-from-3rd-to-6th-in-china-amid-intensifying-competition-huawei-shipments-surge-41-in-">Apple&#8217;s position in the Chinese market</a> dropped from third to sixth place in the second quarter of 2024.
Previously it was also reported that China is making intense efforts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41017367/huawei-riding-high-on-trifold-success-launches-revolutionary-laptop-powered-by-homegrown-chips-softw">toward achieving technological self-reliance</a> as a direct reaction to U.S. limitations on semiconductor exports to the country.
The country is also making waves in the field of AI. Earlier this month, Clem Delangue, co-founder and CEO of Hugging Face, predicted that in 2025, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42319922/artificial-intelligence-ceo-backed-by-nvidia-alphabet-amazon-shares-2025-ai-predictions-including-robots-chemistry-and-more">China will take the lead</a> in the AI race, because of open-source AI development.
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42522048/jim-cramer-warns-nvidias-vicious-and-fast-reversal-is-coming-amid-174-surge-this-year-and-china-antitrust-probe?itm_source=parsely-api">Jim Cramer Warns Nvidia&#8217;s &#8216;Vicious&#8217; And &#8216;Fast&#8217; Reversal Is Coming Amid 174% Surge This Year And China Antitrust Probe</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

XIACF

Apple Watch Faces Tough Competition As Huawei Drives 20% Surge In Wearables

Apple Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) is reportedly engaging in discussions with&nbsp;Tencent&nbsp;(OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCEHY#OTC">TCEHY</a>) and TikTok&#8217;s parent company,&nbsp;ByteDance, to integrate their AI&nbsp;models into iPhones sold in&nbsp;China.
What Happened: The U.S. tech giant began incorporating OpenAI&#8217;s ChatGPT into its devices earlier this month. However, due to regulatory constraints in China, Apple is seeking local partners to enhance AI features on its devices. The&nbsp;discussions with Tencent and ByteDance&nbsp;are reportedly in preliminary stages, sources indicated, Reuters reported on Thursday.
Apple&#8217;s move comes&nbsp;as it faces declining market&nbsp;share in China, the world&#8217;s largest smartphone market.&nbsp;The absence of AI capabilities&nbsp;in its latest iPhones has been a significant drawback, especially with increasing competition from domestic brands like Huawei.
Apple, Tencent and ByteDance have yet to respond to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga&#8217;s</a> queries.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42525551/ahead-of-trumps-return-to-white-house-us-approves-406m-grant-for-taiwans-chipmaker-globalwafers?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ahead Of Trump&#8217;s Return To White House, US Approves $406M Grant For Taiwan&#8217;s Chipmaker GlobalWafers</a>
Why It Matters: The potential collaboration with Tencent and ByteDance is critical for Apple as it navigates the competitive Chinese market. In recent months, Apple has faced challenges in China, including a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40125039/apple-cracks-down-on-tencent-and-bytedance-over-30-app-store-fees-threatens-to-reject-essential-">crackdown on app store fees</a>. In August, Apple intensified efforts to compel Tencent and ByteDance to close loopholes that allowed in-app creators to bypass Apple&#8217;s 30% commission. 
Moreover, Apple&#8217;s AI ambitions have been met with skepticism. In October, an analyst suggested that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41420086/apple-intelligences-meh-moment-ahead-analyst-predicts-5-months-of-build-up-could-lead-to-a-thats-it">Apple&#8217;s much-anticipated AI system,</a> Apple Intelligence, might not meet high expectations. This underscores the importance of Apple&#8217;s current talks with Chinese tech giants to bolster its AI capabilities.
In November,&nbsp;Tim Cook&nbsp;expressed optimism about Apple&#8217;s performance in China, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41677388/tim-cook-underscores-several-positive-signs-in-apples-china-performance-refrains-from-talking-about">highlighting positive signs</a> despite economic challenges. However, he refrained from commenting on the potential impact of economic stimulus. This context emphasizes the strategic importance of Apple&#8217;s AI integration efforts in maintaining its market position in China.
Read Next:&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42499609/micron-gets-investment-from-white-house-china-launches-antitrust-investigation-on-nvidia-apple-faces-1-2-billion-lawsuit-in-california-more-consumer-tech-news-december-9-13?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Micron Gets Investment From White House, China Launches Antitrust Investigation On Nvidia, Apple Faces $1.2 Billion Lawsuit In California &amp; More: Consumer Tech News (December 9-13)</a></li>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image via Shutterstock

General

TCEHY

Apple Reportedly In Talks With Tencent, TikTok-Parent ByteDance To Roll Out AI Features In China

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) has slammed Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) for its numerous requests to access iPhone-maker&#8217;s software tools, citing potential privacy and security risks.
What Happened: Under the EU&#8217;s Digital Markets Act, Apple is required to allow competitors and app developers to inter-operate with its services or face significant fines.
Meta has so far submitted 15 interoperability requests, more than any other company, seeking extensive access to Apple&#8217;s technology stack, reported Reuters, citing a report in which Cupertino complained about it.
The Tim Cook-led tech giant has expressed concerns that Meta&#8217;s requests could compromise user privacy and security.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42513402/apples-2025-bull-case-can-it-deliver-without-riding-the-ai-wave?itm_source=parsely-api">Apple&#8217;s 2025 Bull Case: Can It Deliver Without Riding The AI Wave?</a>
The company also suggested that the requests are unrelated to the use of Meta&#8217;s external devices like smart glasses and VR headsets.
Apple cited Meta's history of receiving fines in Europe as a reason for its concern.
In response, a Meta spokesperson accused Apple of using privacy as a pretext for anticompetitive behavior. &#8220;Every time Apple is called out for its anticompetitive behavior, they defend themselves on privacy grounds that have no basis in reality.&#8221;
Apple and Meta did not immediately respond to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga's</a> request for comments.
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: Since 2014, Cook and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg have clashed over privacy, business models, and product strategies.
From Facebook&#8217;s Cambridge Analytica scandal to Apple's iOS privacy updates and competing VR headsets, their battle epitomizes the growing tensions between Silicon Valley&#8217;s biggest players.
This year in February, Apple launched its first-generation mixed-reality headset called Vision Pro, and Zuckerberg wasted no time in sharing his thoughts on the device.
&nbsp;&#8220;I don't think that Quest is the better value, I think [Meta&#8217;s] Quest is the better product, period,&#8221; he stated at the time.
In June, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39470144/apple-reportedly-said-no-to-metas-offer-for-iphone-ai-integration-due-to-privacy-policy-concerns">Apple reportedly declined Meta&#8217;s proposal</a> to integrate its AI chatbot, Llama, into the iPhone, citing privacy policy concerns. This report came just days after Apple announced a partnership with OpenAI.
In July, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg criticized Apple&#8217;s approach, describing it as &#8220;soul-crushing&#8221; and accusing the company of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39926076/mark-zuckerberg-slams-tim-cooks-apple-after-cupertino-reportedly-rejected-its-iphone-ai-partnership">trying to limit Meta&#8217;s</a> technological advancements.
Price Action: On Wednesday, Meta&#8217;s stock finished 3.59% lower at $597.19, while Apple saw a decline of 2.14%, ending at $248.05, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Apple Slams Meta's Interoperability Demands, Cites Privacy Risks — Instagram Parent Fires Back: Cupertino's Assertions Have 'No Basis In Reality'

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) have announced a collaboration for the improvement in the performance of large language models.
What Happened: The partnership focuses on integrating Apple&#8217;s Recurrent Drafter (ReDrafter) technique with Nvidia&#8217;s TensorRT-LLM, to boost text generation speeds.
ReDrafter, which Apple open-sourced earlier this year, combines beam search and dynamic tree attention to improve LLM performance.
The collaboration with Nvidia has led to the integration of ReDrafter into TensorRT-LLM, a tool designed to accelerate LLMs on Nvidia GPUs.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42546621/elon-musk-agrees-as-satya-nadella-reflects-on-ais-global-impact-in-2024-from-cancer-research-to-rainforest-conservation-and-more?itm_source=parsely-api">Elon Musk Agrees With Satya Nadella As Microsoft CEO Reflects On &#8216;Incredible Speed&#8217; Of AI Diffusion In 2024</a>
This integration involved adding new operators to improve TensorRT-LLM&#8217;s ability to handle complex models and decoding methods.
Benchmarking results show a 2.7x increase in token generation speed for greedy decoding on Nvidia GPUs, significantly reducing latency and power consumption.
Apple&#8217;s machine learning researchers noted that this advancement could lower computational costs and improve user experience by reducing latency in production applications.
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: In October earlier this year, Apple reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41666494/apple-q4-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-beat-installed-base-hits-new-highs-iphone-sales-rise-as-apple-in">fourth-quarter revenue</a> of $94.9 billion, surpassing analyst expectations of $94.56 billion.
Last month, Nvidia reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/42099904/nvidia-beats-q3-revenue-eps-estimates-supply-constraints-ding-stock-huang-says-age-of-ai-is-in-full-steam">third-quarter revenue</a> of $35.1 billion, marking a 94% increase compared to the last year, and exceeding the Street consensus estimate of $33.12 billion, as per <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent112024&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Together these two tech giants are worth about $7 trillion, with Apple being the most valuable company in the world and Nvidia ranking third.
Price Action: Apple shares fell 2.14% to $248.05 on Wednesday, and dipped further to $247.19 in after-hours trading. Meanwhile, Nvidia shares gained 2.01% to $131.50 in after-hours trading, recovering from a 1.14% decline to $128.91 during the regular session.
Photo Courtesy: Koshiro K On Shutterstock.com
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Nvidia, Apple Team Up To Supercharge ChatGPT-Like LLMs With ReDrafter Technique

<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-18/apple-halts-long-running-effort-to-build-iphone-hardware-subscription-service" title="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-18/apple-halts-long-running-effort-to-build-iphone-hardware-subscription-service">https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-18/apple-halts-long-running-effort-to-build-iphone-hardware-subscription-service</a>

AFRM

'Apple Halts Effort To Build iPhone Hardware Subscription Service; Much-Delayed Program Had Been In Development Since Around 2022; Company Also Shut Down Pay Later Offering Earlier This Year' - Bloomberg News

Broadcom Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) shares are trading lower Wednesday, pulling back from a recent surge that saw the stock join the $1 trillion club. Here&#8217;s a look at what <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42536512/market-breadth-worsens-as-tech-giants-break-free-from-sp-500-reality-is-this-bullish-or-bearish-for-2025">you need to know</a>.
What To Know: Broadcom shares have been on a tear over the past week, gaining nearly 40% since <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/12/42472970/broadcom-reports-mixed-q4-results-eps-beat-revenues-miss-q1-guidance-in-line-with-estimates">reporting earnings</a>. Broadcom shares soared after the company beat earnings estimates and provided strong guidance for AI-related revenue growth.
Broadcom&#8217;s fourth-quarter revenue was up 51% year-over-year to $14.05 billion, but came up short of estimates of $14.09 billion, according to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>. Despite the miss on overall revenue, Broadcom reported a 220% increase in AI revenue and guided for significant growth in 2025. Positive commentary surrounding AI on the call also helped drive momentum to the upside.
Broadcom CEO Hock Tan said on the call with analysts and investors that he expects the total addressable market for the company&#8217;s AI chips to be between $60 billion and $90 billion over the next few years. He also announced that the company was working on custom AI chips with large cloud customers, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/12/13/broadcom-stock-jumps-21percent-pushing-company-past-1-trillion-market-cap-for-the-first-time.html">per</a> CNBC.
Reports from last week suggested that Broadcom was working with Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/24/12/42439155/broadcom-stock-jumps-on-apple-ai-chip-report-whats-going-on">AI chip development</a>. The company is reportedly working on development of an AI server chip&#8217;s networking technology. Broadcom shares got a boost from the news. 
Several analysts have weighed in with positive updates since the company reported fourth-quarter results. Multiple analysts maintained Overweight ratings, while others kept Buy ratings on the name. Newly-issued price targets range from $205 to $255. 
The weakness in Broadcom shares on Wednesday appears to be due to profit-taking in the wake of Broadcom&#8217;s incredible surge above the $1 trillion market cap mark. Broadcom shares hit new all-time highs this week, so the stock is likely to remain volatile as investors try to determine the appropriate value of the stock given the recent string of AI news.
It&#8217;s worth noting that Broadcom was among the top trending stocks on Reddit&#8217;s WallStreetBets on Wednesday, suggesting retail investors are also sizing up the name.
Check This Out: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42531167/broadcom-dethrones-nvidia-as-ais-new-darling-valuation-multiple-suggests-ai-momentum-shift">Broadcom Outpaces Nvidia In AI Chip Stock Valuation Race: Is Investor Sentiment Shifting?</a>
AVGO Price Action: <a href="http://benzinga.com/quote/avgo">Broadcom shares</a> were down 3.33% at $232.18 at the time of publication Wednesday, according to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Photo: Shutterstock.

What's Going On With Broadcom Stock?

On Wednesday, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced significant measures to protect consumers from deceptive <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/credit-cards" rel="noreferrer noopener">credit card</a> practices and help them save money on interest and fees.
These efforts include issuing a circular to law enforcement agencies, publishing new research on retail credit cards, and launching a comparison tool to aid consumers in navigating the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-takes-action-on-bait-and-switch-credit-card-rewards-tactics/" rel="noreferrer noopener">credit card market</a>.
Investors will closely watch credit card companies, including Visa Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>), Mastercard Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>), American Express Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXP#NYSE">AXP</a>), Affirm Holdings, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AFRM#NASDAQ">AFRM</a>), Corpay, Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CPAY#NYSE">CPAY</a>), Global Payments Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GPN#NYSE">GPN</a>) and Shift4 Payments, Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FOUR#NYSE">FOUR</a>).
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42553094/jabil-q1-earnings-tops-expectations-cloud-and-data-center-growth-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jabil Q1 Earnings: Revenue And EPS Beat, Cloud and Data Center Growth, Raises Annual Outlook</a>
According to the CFPB, some credit card issuers may be engaging in illegal practices such as devaluing rewards points or miles, making it difficult for consumers to redeem promised benefits.
The agency highlighted that companies could face penalties if they fail to deliver advertised rewards, mislead users with hidden terms, or revoke rewards through unclear policies.
The circular aims to deter companies from engaging in bait-and-switch tactics and to encourage fair competition within the credit card industry.
As part of its ongoing research, the CFPB discovered that retail credit cards often charge higher interest rates than general-purpose cards. According to the study, more than 90% of retail cards carry a maximum annual percentage rate (APR) above 30%, compared to just 38% for non-retail cards.
Retail cards, frequently promoted during peak shopping seasons, also account for a disproportionate share of late fees, highlighting potential consumer risks.
The CFPB unveiled its &#8220;Explore Credit Cards&#8221; tool to address these concerns, designed to provide unbiased information about over 500 credit cards. Unlike traditional comparison sites, this platform enables users to compare cards based on interest rates, fees, and rewards without pay-to-play promotions.
Earlier this year, the CFPB revealed that larger credit card issuers charge significantly higher interest rates than smaller banks and credit unions. By making average interest rate data publicly accessible, the CFPB aims to empower consumers to make informed decisions and find the best rates tailored to their needs.
The CFPB plans to continue monitoring the credit card market and welcomes voluntary data contributions from additional issuers to enhance its comparison tool further.
In October, the CFPB ordered Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Goldman Sachs Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>) to pay <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41501333/apple-goldman-sachs-fined-89-million-over-apple-card-missteps-government-watchdog-orders-victim-comp" rel="noreferrer noopener">$89 million in fines</a> for deceptive practices regarding the Apple Card.
In December, Morgan Stanley (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MS#NYSE">MS</a>) Wealth Management agreed to pay a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42405341/morgan-stanley-agrees-to-pay-15m-penalty-to-settle-sec-charges-over-advisors-stealing-client-funds" rel="noreferrer noopener">$15 million fine</a> after the SEC found the firm failed to prevent financial advisors from using client funds to cover personal credit card bills. The SEC investigation uncovered gaps in supervisory practices between 2015 and 2022, allowing unauthorized Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers to advisors&#8217; accounts.
Also Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/emerging-markets/24/12/42552200/sony-semiconductor-hits-20-billion-image-sensor-shipments-plans-expansion" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sony Semiconductor Hits 20 Billion Image Sensor Shipments, Plans Expansion</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

Government

Regulations

CPAY

FOUR

Consumer Finance Watchdog Cracks Down on Credit Card Sneaky Fees and False Promises

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Below are some instances of options activity happening in the Information Technology sector: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>NVDA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$136.00</td>
<td>$41.2K</td>
<td>23.5K</td>
<td>87.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AAPL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$252.50</td>
<td>$30.3K</td>
<td>11.8K</td>
<td>22.4K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MU</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$110.00</td>
<td>$29.0K</td>
<td>29.9K</td>
<td>8.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$166.6K</td>
<td>22.7K</td>
<td>4.4K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SOUN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/27/24</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$46.0K</td>
<td>3.9K</td>
<td>3.4K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MSTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$390.00</td>
<td>$27.3K</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
<td>3.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QUBT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
<td>$31.2K</td>
<td>892</td>
<td>2.4K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RGTI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$7.50</td>
<td>$57.0K</td>
<td>10.9K</td>
<td>1.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AVGO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/17/25</td>
<td>$270.00</td>
<td>$2.3 million</td>
<td>195</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TSM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/27/24</td>
<td>$205.00</td>
<td>$42.0K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
<td>976</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding NVDA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on December 20, 2024. Parties traded 200 contract(s) at a $136.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 10 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $41.2K, with a price of $206.0 per contract. There were 23547 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 87036 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AAPL (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on December 20, 2024. Parties traded 295 contract(s) at a $252.50 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 6 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $30.3K, with a price of $103.0 per contract. There were 11863 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 22435 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MU (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MU#NASDAQ">MU</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on December 20, 2024. Parties traded 40 contract(s) at a $110.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $29.0K, with a price of $726.0 per contract. There were 29977 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 8668 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AMD (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 30 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 300 contract(s) at a $130.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 26 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $166.6K, with a price of $556.0 per contract. There were 22774 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 4487 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding SOUN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOUN#NASDAQ">SOUN</a>), we observe a call option sweep with neutral sentiment. It expires in 9 day(s) on December 27, 2024. Parties traded 100 contract(s) at a $20.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $46.0K, with a price of $461.0 per contract. There were 3925 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 3464 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MSTR (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on December 20, 2024. Parties traded 30 contract(s) at a $390.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.3K, with a price of $912.0 per contract. There were 1626 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 3278 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding QUBT (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QUBT#NASDAQ">QUBT</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on December 20, 2024. Parties traded 250 contract(s) at a $17.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 14 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $31.2K, with a price of $125.0 per contract. There were 892 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2416 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For RGTI (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RGTI#NASDAQ">RGTI</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 149 day(s) on May 16, 2025. This event was a transfer of 100 contract(s) at a $7.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $57.0K, with a price of $570.0 per contract. There were 10912 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1286 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AVGO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 303 day(s) on October 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 1000 contract(s) at a $270.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $2.3 million, with a price of $2390.0 per contract. There were 195 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1000 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For TSM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 9 day(s) on December 27, 2024. This event was a transfer of 100 contract(s) at a $205.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $42.0K, with a price of $420.0 per contract. There were 2077 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 976 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

QUBT

RGTI

SOUN

In today's rapidly changing and fiercely competitive business landscape, it is essential for investors and industry enthusiasts to thoroughly analyze companies. In this article, we will conduct a comprehensive industry comparison, evaluating Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) against its key competitors in the Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals industry. By examining key financial metrics, market position, and growth prospects, we aim to provide valuable insights for investors and shed light on company's performance within the industry.
<h3>Apple Background</h3>
Apple is among the largest companies in the world, with a broad portfolio of hardware and software products targeted at consumers and businesses. Apple's iPhone makes up a majority of the firm sales, and Apple's other products like Mac, iPad, and Watch are designed around the iPhone as the focal point of an expansive software ecosystem. Apple has progressively worked to add new applications, like streaming video, subscription bundles, and augmented reality. The firm designs its own software and semiconductors while working with subcontractors like Foxconn and TSMC to build its products and chips. Slightly less than half of Apple's sales come directly through its flagship stores, with a majority of sales coming indirectly through partnerships and distribution.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Company</th>
<th>P/E</th>
<th>P/B</th>
<th>P/S</th>
<th>ROE</th>
<th>EBITDA (in billions)</th>
<th>Gross Profit (in billions)</th>
<th>Revenue Growth</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Apple Inc</td>
<td>41.69</td>
<td>67.28</td>
<td>9.99</td>
<td>23.83%</td>
<td>$32.5</td>
<td>$43.88</td>
<td>6.07%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co</td>
<td>11.16</td>
<td>1.13</td>
<td>0.96</td>
<td>5.72%</td>
<td>$1.23</td>
<td>$2.44</td>
<td>9.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NetApp Inc</td>
<td>22.56</td>
<td>27.92</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>32.84%</td>
<td>$0.44</td>
<td>$1.18</td>
<td>6.15%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Western Digital Corp</td>
<td>71.03</td>
<td>1.92</td>
<td>1.51</td>
<td>4.28%</td>
<td>$0.86</td>
<td>$1.55</td>
<td>48.91%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pure Storage Inc</td>
<td>168.62</td>
<td>15.21</td>
<td>7.61</td>
<td>4.44%</td>
<td>$0.08</td>
<td>$0.54</td>
<td>8.81%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Super Micro Computer Inc</td>
<td>16.82</td>
<td>3.62</td>
<td>1.36</td>
<td>6.68%</td>
<td>$0.4</td>
<td>$0.6</td>
<td>37.87%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eastman Kodak Co</td>
<td>10.63</td>
<td>0.61</td>
<td>0.65</td>
<td>1.34%</td>
<td>$0.04</td>
<td>$0.04</td>
<td>-2.97%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Turtle Beach Corp</td>
<td>53.87</td>
<td>3.29</td>
<td>0.99</td>
<td>3.3%</td>
<td>$0.01</td>
<td>$0.03</td>
<td>59.51%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AstroNova Inc</td>
<td>26.67</td>
<td>1.11</td>
<td>0.67</td>
<td>0.26%</td>
<td>$0.0</td>
<td>$0.01</td>
<td>7.65%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Average</td>
<td>47.67</td>
<td>6.85</td>
<td>2.22</td>
<td>7.36%</td>
<td>$0.38</td>
<td>$0.8</td>
<td>21.95%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<style>
 table {
 width: 100%;
 border-collapse: collapse;
 font-family: Arial, sans-serif;
 font-size: 14px;
 }

 th, td {
 padding: 8px;
 text-align: left;
 }

 th {
 background-color: #293a5a;
 color: #fff;
 text-align: left;
 }

 tr:nth-child(even) {
 background-color: #f2f4f8;
 }

 tr:hover {
 background-color: #e1e4ea;
 }

 td:nth-child(3), td:nth-child(5) {
 text-align: left;
 }

 .dividend-amount {
 font-weight: bold;
 color: #0d6efd;
 }

 .dividend-frequency {
 font-size: 12px;
 color: #6c757d;
 }
 </style>After a detailed analysis of Apple, the following trends become apparent: 
<ul>
<li>
The Price to Earnings ratio of 41.69 is 0.87x lower than the industry average, indicating potential undervaluation for the stock.
</li>
<li>
With a Price to Book ratio of 67.28, which is 9.82x the industry average, Apple might be considered overvalued in terms of its book value, as it is trading at a higher multiple compared to its industry peers.
</li>
<li>
The Price to Sales ratio of 9.99, which is 4.5x the industry average, suggests the stock could potentially be overvalued in relation to its sales performance compared to its peers.
</li>
<li>
The company has a higher Return on Equity (ROE) of 23.83%, which is 16.47% above the industry average. This suggests efficient use of equity to generate profits and demonstrates profitability and growth potential.
</li>
<li>
The company exhibits higher Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) of $32.5 Billion, which is 85.53x above the industry average, implying stronger profitability and robust cash flow generation.
</li>
<li>
Compared to its industry, the company has higher gross profit of $43.88 Billion, which indicates 54.85x above the industry average, indicating stronger profitability and higher earnings from its core operations.
</li>
<li>
The company's revenue growth of 6.07% is significantly below the industry average of 21.95%. This suggests a potential struggle in generating increased sales volume.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Debt To Equity Ratio</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734534027_0.png" alt="debt to equity" />
The debt-to-equity (D/E) ratio is a measure that indicates the level of debt a company has taken on relative to the value of its assets net of liabilities.
Considering the debt-to-equity ratio in industry comparisons allows for a concise evaluation of a company's financial health and risk profile, aiding in informed decision-making.
By considering the Debt-to-Equity ratio, Apple can be compared to its top 4 peers, leading to the following observations:
<ul>
<li>
When compared to its top 4 peers, Apple has a moderate debt-to-equity ratio of 1.87.
</li>
<li>
This implies that the company maintains a balanced financial structure with a reasonable level of debt and an appropriate reliance on equity financing.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Takeaways</h3>
For Apple in the Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals industry, the PE ratio is low compared to peers, indicating potential undervaluation. The high PB and PS ratios suggest that the market values Apple's assets and sales highly. Apple's high ROE, EBITDA, and gross profit reflect strong profitability, while the low revenue growth may indicate a need for expansion strategies to align with industry trends.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Market Analysis: Apple And Competitors In Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals Industry

Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) may be riding high with a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AAPL/news">$253.48 stock price</a>, but the iPhone 16 cycle is showing signs of stumbling, according to JPMorgan analyst Samik Chatterjee.
The latest Wave7 Research survey paints a mixed picture, with iPhone market share trailing behind the iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 cycles during the critical October to November period. Despite a seasonally better month, the iPhone 16 cycle's market share clocks in at 66%, down from 69% in 2023 and 70% in 2022.
The likely culprit? There is a lack of buzz around Apple Intelligence, the tech giant's much-touted new feature. Carrier store reps say consumer awareness is still alarmingly low—67% of reps surveyed reported "low" awareness, while just 10% called it "high." So much for artificial intelligence leading a real upgrade cycle.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42545936/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-and-s25-leaks-show-off-sleek-curved-design-and-slimmer-bezels-than-apples-iphone-16-pro-max">Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra And S25+ Leaks Feature Sleek Curved Design And Slimmer Bezels Than Apple&#8217;s iPhone 16 Pro Max</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Apple Pro Max Powers Ahead, Leaving The Plus In The Dust</h3>
While the overall iPhone 16 cycle may be underwhelming, the high-end iPhone 16 Pro Max is stealing the spotlight, leading sales across all carriers with an impressive 19% share. It's clear that Apple's premium strategy is paying off at the top end of the spectrum, even as the 16 Plus struggles with a mere 7% share.
The Samsung S24 Ultra outshone Apple's iPhone 16 Pro/Max in photography chops, with its superior range and resolution earning 50% of the votes. Apple trailed with 30%, barely edging out Google's Pixel 9 Pro/XL at 18%.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What's Next For Apple?</h3>
While Apple Intelligence hasn't captured the public imagination yet, Apple's loyal base and robust sales of high-end models suggest the potential for a second wind. 
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Image: Courtesy of Apple

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