When is Apple's earnings date and what can we expect?
Apple reports Q4 2024 earnings on October 31 after market close. Here's what analysts expect from the world's most valuable company.
Apple Q4 2024 earnings - what to expect
The tech giant Apple is forecast to report adjusted earnings per share of $1.593. Revenue expectations stand at $94.215 billion.
Net income is projected to reach $24.239 billion, while EBITDA is expected to hit $32.851 billion. These figures reflect modest adjustments downward from earlier predictions.
Analysts will closely watch iPhone sales growth, forecast at 2.5%, as the iPhone 16's reception has been softer than anticipated. This moderate growth suggests a slower upgrade cycle among consumers.
The company's services segment continues to show promise, with expectations of double-digit expansion that could help maintain healthy operating margins.
China concerns and market challenges
Apple's performance in China remains a critical focus for investors. Recent third-party data from the region has shown mixed results, creating uncertainty about future growth prospects.
Management commentary on Chinese market dynamics will be crucial for understanding the company's outlook in this key region. Any signs of weakening demand could impact investor sentiment.
The reported reduction of 10 million iPhone 16 units in production plans has raised concerns about overall demand. This adjustment could weigh on the company's forward guidance.
Trading activity in Apple shares has reflected these uncertainties, with the stock underperforming the S&P 500 year-to-date.
Innovation and artificial intelligence focus
Apple continues to advance its artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities through Apple Intelligence features integrated across its product lineup. This strategic focus demonstrates the company's commitment to innovation.
Despite these developments, research and development (R&D) expenses are expected to see only modest increases. The company appears to be taking a measured approach to AI investment.
Operating margins could benefit from this balanced strategy, supported by the growing high-margin services business. This segment has become increasingly important to Apple's financial performance.
The combination of hardware innovation and services growth provides multiple revenue streams, though market reception remains cautious.
Capital returns and shareholder value
Apple is expected to maintain its robust capital return program, with forecasted share buybacks of $25 billion for the quarter. This aligns with recent quarterly averages.
The company's substantial cash reserves and strong cash flow generation continue to support these shareholder-friendly policies. This financial strength remains a key attraction for investors.
Current analyst consensus suggests a price target of $245.13, indicating potential upside of 6.2%. The stock maintains a "Moderate Buy" rating with 39 buy, 19 hold, and 2 sell recommendations.
While Apple shares have gained 19.9% this year, they've lagged behind the broader market's 21.5% advance. This performance gap reflects ongoing concerns about growth prospects.
H2 Apple earnings – technical analysis
Apple stock has found its form after a tough start to the year. The stock price bottomed out in April around $164.00, and has rallied impressively since then.
It has recently returned to July record high at $237.00, and while it is weakening in the run-up to earnings the overall uptrend remains intact. A close above $237.00 opens the way to more record highs. Meanwhile, a close below the October low of $221.90 might suggest some further short-term weakness.
AAPL chart
How to trade Apple earnings
1. Research Apple's fundamentals and technical analysis to inform your trading decisions
2. Consider whether you want to trade or invest in Apple shares
3. Open an account with us
4. Search for 'Apple' or 'AAPL' in our platform
5. Open your position, ensuring you've set appropriate stops and limits
Remember that CFD trading and spread betting allow you to go long or short on Apple shares. You can also trade options to implement more sophisticated strategies.
For longer-term positions, consider buying shares through our share dealing service. You might also explore ETFs that provide exposure to the broader tech sector.
This information has been prepared by IG, a trading name of IG Markets Limited. In addition to the disclaimer below, the material on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Although we are not specifically constrained from dealing ahead of our recommendations we do not seek to take advantage of them before they are provided to our clients. See full non-independent research disclaimer and quarterly summary.
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