Jefferies cuts Apple stock rating to Underperform, target to $170.62

Published 02/05/2025, 13:14
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On Friday, Jefferies analyst Edison Lee downgraded Apple stock from a Hold to an Underperform rating and adjusted the price target to $170.62, up from the previous target of $167.88. According to InvestingPro data, Apple currently trades at a P/E ratio of 33.7x, significantly above industry averages. The stock appears overvalued based on InvestingPro’s proprietary Fair Value model. Lee’s analysis followed Apple’s second-quarter fiscal year 2025 earnings report, which showed revenues, net profit, and earnings per share growth of 5%, 5%, and 8%, respectively. These results were consistent with consensus estimates and surpassed Jefferies’ expectations. InvestingPro data shows Apple maintains a "GOOD" overall financial health score, with particularly strong profitability metrics. Seven analysts have recently revised their earnings estimates upward for the upcoming period, suggesting potential strength ahead. Discover 12 more exclusive InvestingPro Tips for Apple by subscribing today.

Despite the satisfactory performance, Apple’s management forecasted only low single-digit to mid-single-digit revenue growth for the upcoming quarter, along with an anticipated $900 million impact from tariffs. Lee estimated this guidance suggests shipments of 7 million iPhone Pro/Pro Max units from China, which would satisfy the demand in the U.S. for the June quarter.

However, the analyst expressed concern over the gross margin for Apple’s products, which has declined year-over-year by 0.7 percentage points. Current gross profit margin stands at 46.5% according to InvestingPro data. This contraction in gross margin is seen as a pressure point for Apple’s earnings. Lee also warned that the impact of tariffs is likely to increase over time, potentially leading to further downside in earnings. This outlook prompted the downgrade to Underperform, signaling skepticism about Apple’s near-term financial performance amid these challenges. For comprehensive analysis of Apple’s financial health and future prospects, access the detailed Pro Research Report, available exclusively on InvestingPro.

In other recent news, Apple Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL). reported its second-quarter earnings for 2025, showcasing strong iPhone sales, although sales in Greater China did not meet expectations. DA Davidson expressed confidence in Apple’s performance, raising the stock’s price target to $250 and maintaining a Buy rating, citing solid earnings and a $100 billion share buyback program. Conversely, Rosenblatt Securities downgraded Apple’s stock from Buy to Neutral, with a reduced price target of $217, due to concerns about growth prospects and lack of new, innovative products. Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) maintained an Overweight rating with a $235 target, highlighting Apple’s double-digit growth in iPhone upgraders and stable revenue from China. Citi also adjusted its price target to $240, while maintaining a Buy rating, noting a modest earnings beat and stable sales. Apple’s management has provided guidance for low to mid-single-digit sales growth for the June quarter, with a $900 million tariff impact anticipated. Despite these challenges, Apple announced a 4% dividend increase and a $100 billion share repurchase authorization, signaling confidence in its financial health. Analysts continue to monitor Apple’s strategic moves, particularly regarding its supply chain and market expansion efforts.

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