Strategic Developments Which May Affect Apple’s Share Price
By Christopher Patterson, Head of Corporate, RS Global Group
Apple’s share price could rise by up to 35% this year if several strategic initiatives come to fruition and I believe the company is entering a pivotal phase that could meaningfully shift investor sentiment.
A key potential catalyst is a partnership with Google‘s Gemini artificial intelligence platform. Apple has yet to fully convince investors of its competitiveness in AI, a gap I would characterize as an “invisible AI strategy.” Alphabet’s relatively favourable outcome in a recent U.S. Justice Department ruling could pave the way for an exclusive Gemini arrangement, enabling Apple to enhance AI-driven search and query functionality across its ecosystem. However, I would caution that partnerships alone will not be sufficient, as investors are increasingly focused on evidence of Apple‘s own AI innovation.
Progress in Apple’s proprietary AI capabilities represents a second driver, particularly the anticipated upgrade to Siri expected in the March–April timeframe. A more advanced digital assistant could underpin the introduction of AI-focused subscription services, creating new revenue streams while signalling tangible advances in Apple’s internal AI development.
Product momentum forms the third pillar of the bullish thesis, with Ives highlighting continued strength in the iPhone cycle. I believe Apple could exceed current market expectations for the iPhone 17, supported by improving performance in China, and that this momentum could carry into the launch of the iPhone 18 later in the year, reinforcing the company’s core revenue base.
The final factor is leadership continuity. While some investors have questioned whether CEO Tim Cook is the right leader for Apple’s next chapter, I view stability at the top as a positive during a period of transformation. Confirmation of Cook’s continued leadership, potentially through at least 2027, would provide reassurance to investors as Apple advances and executes its broader AI strategy.
Collectively, these four developments—strategic AI partnerships, internal AI progress, sustained iPhone growth, and leadership stability—would point to a bullish outlook and his expectation of significant upside in Apple’s share price over the coming year.
Disclosure: The author does not hold any position in the securities discussed.
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