Apple Stock Hits All-Time High Thursday as Analyst Sees 'Golden Era of Growth' With AI

Key Takeaways - Apple shares closed at an all-time high of $259 02 on Thursday, driven by Wedbush analysts' prediction of a "golden era of growth" in 2025 due to AI demand [6] - Wedbush raised Apple's price target by $25 to $325, implying a 25% upside from the current price, and maintained an "outperform" rating [6] - Apple's market capitalization is nearing $4 trillion, with shares gaining over one-third of their value since the start of the year [6] - Wedbush projects Apple could sell over 240 million iPhones in fiscal year 2025, marking the highest iPhone unit sales year in the company's history [6] - Apple is one of only three companies with a market cap over $3 trillion, alongside Nvidia and Microsoft [6] Analyst Ratings and Market Sentiment - Out of 15 analysts polled, nine hold "buy" or equivalent ratings, four have "hold" ratings, and two have "sell" ratings [6] - The average analyst price target compiled by Visible Alpha is $244, which would imply a decline from Thursday's closing price [6] Market Context - Apple's shares have seen significant growth, with the company approaching a $4 trillion market cap, a milestone no other company has reached [6] - The AI-driven upgrade cycle for iPhones is expected to be a major growth driver, with Wedbush analysts suggesting the market is underestimating its potential [6]