While Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) stock has started 2026 on a bearish note, some Wall Street analysts remain bullish on the equity over the next 12 months.
As of press time, AAPL was trading at $259, up 0.13% in the last session. Year-to-date, the stock is down more than 4%, while over the past 12 months it has gained nearly 10%.
Notably, Apple delivered a strong 2025, posting record revenue driven by robust iPhone demand and continued growth in Services, which generated $109.2 billion in sales. Its market capitalization surpassed $4 trillion, making it only the second company, after Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), to reach the milestone.
The technology giant is also undergoing notable leadership changes. In this line, Chief Operating Officer Jeff Williams has retired, while head of government affairs Lisa Jackson and General Counsel Kate Adams are set to step down in late January and late 2026, respectively.
AI chief John Giannandrea is retiring, with oversight of Apple’s artificial intelligence efforts shifting to Amar Subramanya. Design vice president Alan Dye has also departed to lead a new design studio at Meta’s Reality Labs.
Wall Street Apple stock prediction
On the stock outlook, analysts remain cautiously optimistic. Specifically, based on 32 ratings tracked by TipRanks, Apple holds a ‘Moderate Buy’ consensus. Nineteen analysts rate the stock a buy, 11 recommend holding, and two suggest selling. The average 12-month price target is $299.49, implying upside of about 15% from current levels. Targets range from a high of $350 to a low of $230.
Evercore ISI reiterated its ‘Outperform’ rating on January 6, raising its price target to $330 from $325, citing stronger-than-expected iPhone demand and limited near-term memory cost pressure. The firm lifted its December-quarter forecasts to $140.5 billion in revenue and $2.71 in earnings per share, driven by strong demand in North America, China, and India and a favorable mix toward higher-end iPhone models. While noting softer demand in Europe and potential margin pressure later in the year, Evercore said Apple remains well-positioned in the near term.
BofA Securities reaffirmed its ‘Buy rating and $325 price target, pointing to steady App Store performance, strong capital returns, and long-term potential from edge AI. The firm noted App Store revenue rose 6.8% year over year to $8.6 billion, with improving monetization offsetting slower growth, particularly in China.
Finally, Raymond James resumed coverage on January 2 with a ‘Hold’ rating and no price target, citing valuation concerns despite solid demand tied to the iPhone 17 refresh cycle. The firm said much of the upside is already reflected in the stock and flagged risks related to component pricing, tariffs, and supply chain concentration, while acknowledging Apple’s strong fundamentals and large installed base.
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