Apple's board recommended shareholders reject DEI rollback proposal

DEI Policies and Corporate Responses - Meta has removed tampons from men's rooms as part of its post-election shakeup, reflecting a broader trend of companies reevaluating DEI policies [1] - At least a dozen major US companies and hundreds of universities have rolled back DEI commitments, including Walmart, Meta, and Ford [1] - Apple's board of directors urged shareholders to reject a proposal to end DEI programs, arguing it would be unnecessary [2] - Apple defended its DEI programs despite a 2023 Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action and public pressure from activists [2] - The National Center for Public Policy Research proposed Apple ditch DEI efforts, citing increased risk of discrimination lawsuits [3] - Apple stated the proposal was unnecessary and would restrict its ability to manage business operations and strategies [4] - DEI initiatives have been criticized by conservatives as divisive and discriminatory, while proponents argue they address racial divides and support marginalized groups [4] - A majority of America's largest companies still maintain DEI programs, with Costco also defending its policies and urging shareholders to reject proposals to end them [5] Stock Performance - Walmart Inc (WMT) stock last traded at $91.58, down $1.43 (-1.53%) [5] - Meta Platforms Inc (META) stock last traded at $615.86, up $5.14 (+0.84%) [5] - Ford Motor Co (F) stock last traded at $9.68, up $0.03 (+0.26%) [5] - Costco Wholesale Corp (COST) stock last traded at $936.94, up $9.57 (+1.03%) [6] - Apple Inc (AAPL) stock last traded at $236.85, down $5.85 (-2.41%) [7]