Apple, long the world's most valuable company, has lost its top position after a steep stock decline tied to concerns over U.S. tariff policies. The tech giant's shares fell for four consecutive trading days starting April 3, erasing over $770 billion in market value. Analysts attribute the downturn to President Donald Trump's proposed 'reciprocal tariffs,' which threaten global supply chains critical to Apple's manufacturing operations.
The company's reliance on overseas production—particularly for flagship products like the iPhone—has left it exposed to escalating trade tensions. By Tuesday's market close, Apple's valuation stood at $2.59 trillion, while Microsoft surged to $2.64 trillion, marking the first leadership shift in the sector since 2021.
This development highlights growing investor anxiety over geopolitical risks in tech investments. Experts note that tariff-related uncertainties could reshape supply chain strategies across Asia, where many components for Apple devices are sourced. The shift underscores the interconnectedness of global markets, with policy decisions in one region reverberating through international stock exchanges and manufacturing hubs.
