Based on the Apple Inc. stock forecasts (apple stock forecast) from 27 analysts, the average analyst target price for Apple Inc. is USD 183.69 over the next 12 months. Apple Inc.’s (apple stock forecast) average analyst rating is Strong Buy. Stock Target Advisor’s own stock analysis of Apple Inc. (apple stock forecast) is Slightly Bullish, based on 10 positives and 5 negative signals. At the last closing, Apple Inc.’s stock price was USD 147.07. Apple Inc.’s stock price has changed by +2.20% over the past week, +15.51% over the past month and +3.24% over the last year.
Apple Inc. creates, produces, and sells smartphones, laptops, tablets, wearable technology, and accessories globally. Additionally, it offers a range of associated services. California’s Cupertino serves as the corporate headquarters for Apple Inc., which was founded in 1977. One Apple Park Way, Cupertino, California 95014, USA
What we like:
High market capitalization
This is one of the largest entities in its sector and is among the top quartile. Such companies tend to be more stable.
Superior risk-adjusted returns
This stock has performed well, on a risk-adjusted basis, compared to its sector peers (for a hold period of at least 12 months) and is in the top quartile.
Low volatility
The stock’s annual returns have been stable and consistent compared to its sector peers (for a hold period of at least 12 months) and is in the top quartile. Although stability is good, also keep in mind it can limit returns.
Superior total returns
The stock has outperformed its sector peers on average annual total returns basis in the past 5 years (for a hold period of at least 12 months) and is in the top quartile.
Superior return on equity
The company management has delivered a better return on equity in the most recent 4 quarters than its peers, placing it in the top quartile.
Superior capital utilization
The company management has delivered a better return on invested capital in the most recent 4 quarters than its peers, placing it in the top quartile.
Superior return on assets
The company management has delivered a better return on assets in the most recent 4 quarters than its peers, placing it in the top quartile.
Positive cash flow
The company had positive total cash flow in the most recent four quarters.
Positive free cash flow
The company had positive total free cash flow in the most recent four quarters.
Superior Dividend Growth
This stock has shown top quartile dividend growth in the previous 5 years compared to its sector
What we don’t like:
Below median dividend returns
The company’s average income yield over the past 5 years has been low compared to its peers. However, it is not a problem if you are not looking for income.
Overpriced compared to book value
The stock is trading high compared to its peers’ median on a price-to-book value basis.
Overpriced on a cash flow basis
The stock is trading high compared to its peers on a price to cash flow basis. It is priced above the median for its sectors. Proceed with caution if you are considering buying.
Highly leveraged
The company is in the bottom half compared to its sector peers on debt to equity and is highly leveraged. However, do check the news and look at its sector and management statements. Sometimes this is high because the company is trying to grow aggressively.
Overpriced on a free cash flow basis
The stock is trading high compared to its peers on a price-to-free cash flow basis. It is priced above the median for its sectors. Proceed with caution if you are considering buying.
