Apple(US:AAPL) Ge Long Hui·2025-07-30 00:47Core Viewpoint - Apple is set to close its first direct retail store in mainland China, located in Dalian, on August 9, 2025, marking a rare occurrence in the company's operations in the region [2][5]. Group 1: Store Closure Details - The Dalian Apple Store, which opened on October 24, 2015, was the first Apple retail store in Dalian and the second in Liaoning Province [5]. - This closure is significant as it is the first time Apple has closed a direct retail store in mainland China, although the company has not disclosed the reasons for this decision [2][5]. Group 2: Market Expansion - Despite the closure, Apple continues to expand its presence in mainland China, with plans to open a new store in Shenzhen on August 16, 2023, which will be the third Apple store in the city [9]. - Earlier in the year, Apple opened its first retail store in Hefei, Anhui Province, indicating ongoing growth in the region [9]. Group 3: Market Performance - Apple's iPhone sales in China have shown a downward trend, with the company holding a 13.9% market share, ranking fifth among smartphone manufacturers [11][12]. - According to IDC, the overall smartphone market in China saw a 4.0% decline in shipments in Q2 2023, totaling 68.96 million units [12]. Group 4: Financial Performance Expectations - Analysts expect Apple's revenue for the third quarter of fiscal year 2025 to increase by 3.9% year-over-year to $89.1 billion, with earnings per share projected to rise by 1.4% to $1.42 [14]. - The Greater China region is anticipated to benefit from positive promotional activities, potentially boosting revenue [14][18]. - Morgan Stanley has raised its revenue forecast for the third quarter to $90.7 billion, reflecting strong performance in hardware and services [19].