Apple(US:AAPL) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-05-25 00:59Core Viewpoint - The ongoing tension between Apple CEO Tim Cook and President Trump is impacting Apple's market position and stock performance, with Trump threatening tariffs on iPhones not produced in the U.S. [1][3] Group 1: Trump's Threats and Apple's Response - Trump publicly criticized Cook for planning to build factories in India while promising a $500 billion investment in the U.S. [1][3] - Following Trump's threats, Apple's stock price dropped significantly, losing over $100 billion in market value [1][3]. - Cook has made efforts to maintain a good relationship with Trump, including a $1 million donation to Trump's inauguration and a commitment to invest $500 billion in the U.S. over four years [3][5]. Group 2: Supply Chain and Manufacturing Challenges - Apple's plan to move iPhone assembly to India by the end of 2026 has drawn Trump's ire, as it contradicts his administration's goal of revitalizing U.S. manufacturing [5][6]. - Manufacturing iPhones in the U.S. could increase costs by over 90%, with potential retail prices soaring to $3,500, which would disrupt Apple's business model [6][8]. - The entrenched supply chain in China poses significant challenges for Apple, as many components are uniquely produced there, making relocation to the U.S. a lengthy and costly process [7][8]. Group 3: Skills Gap in U.S. Manufacturing - The skills gap between U.S. and Chinese manufacturing is a critical issue, with the U.S. lacking the necessary skilled labor to support high-tech manufacturing [8]. - Cook has emphasized that China's appeal to foreign investors is not solely based on lower labor costs but also on the availability of a highly skilled workforce [8].