Apple(US:AAPL) 美股IPO·2025-08-09 21:36Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing debate regarding Apple's stock buyback strategy, highlighting the need for the company to shift its focus towards transformative acquisitions in the AI sector, particularly mentioning Perplexity AI as a potential target [1][3][6]. Group 1: Stock Buyback Program - Over the past decade, Apple has executed a massive stock buyback program, returning a total of $704 billion to shareholders, which surpasses the market capitalization of most companies in the S&P 500 index [3][4]. - This buyback amount is greater than the market values of well-known companies like Eli Lilly, Visa, Mastercard, and Netflix, indicating Apple's unparalleled profitability and cash reserves [5]. - The significant buyback has effectively reduced the number of outstanding shares to approximately 14.84 billion, enhancing earnings per share and serving as a core method for maintaining shareholder value [5]. Group 2: Criticism and Calls for AI Acquisition - Critics argue that the stock buyback strategy is no longer sufficient to drive Apple's future growth, urging the company to consider strategic acquisitions in the AI field [3][6]. - Notable analysts, including Jim Cramer and Daniel Ives, emphasize the necessity for Apple to utilize its cash flow for a significant acquisition in AI, with Perplexity AI being highlighted as a strategic fit [6]. - The urgency for such a move is underscored by the impending antitrust ruling against Google, which could impact Apple's default search partnership with Google on its Safari browser [6].