Apple Faces Investor Skepticism Over Foldable iPhone Prospects

Apple finds itself navigating unusual territory as concerns mount about potentially inflated investor expectations. While the iPhone 17 is performing better than anticipated, market experts are cautioning against over-optimism regarding the company’s planned foldable smartphone. The technology giant received a rare bearish rating on Friday when investment bank Jefferies downgraded Apple shares from “Hold” to “Underperform”—a notable contrast to the prevailing sea of buy recommendations.

Jefferies analyst Edison Lee justified the downgrade with a clear argument: current success of the iPhone 17, partially driven by price reductions on the base model, has already sparked unrealistic hopes for the iPhone 18 Fold. The foldable device, expected in 2026, may struggle to meet these heightened market expectations.

“The improved demand for iPhone 17 is... Read more...