Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) has been a clear winner over the years for investors, creating massive value for shareholders who have bought and held on tight. The narrative has shifted a bit in 2025, however, as the company has lagged behind the market – and has actually lost some ground year-to-date.
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Company bulls are hoping that the upcoming “Apple WOW Event” scheduled for Tuesday will provide a spark to send things roaring upwards once more. It is widely believed that Apple will be unveiling their new iPhone 17 models, among other updates, potentially igniting a refresh cycle and boosting AAPL’s share price.
One of the big worries regarding AAPL this year has been its AI endeavors, and its seeming inability to keep up with the roaring technological advances of its Magnificent 7 contemporaries (and others). That’s a central reason why one investor known by the pseudonym Weebler Finance is feeling pretty down on AAPL.
“I believe that now is a good time for long-time holders to cash in on their profits and reallocate to higher-growth assets,” asserts the 5-star investor.
Weebler posits that Apple’s AI moves appear “defensive” in nature, and far from the paradigm-shifting product launches of the Steve Jobs era. The investor explains that the company’s recent moves to partner with Alphabet’s Gemini to power Apple’s Siri assistant is a case in point, as it represents at an admission that it needs to rely on the AI of others.
Moreover, Weebler has yet to see evidence that the move will help deliver growth for the company. It’s a pragmatic approach, but nothing all that inspirational.
“Coming onto the scene with ‘another ChatGPT/Google Assistant’ with Apple branding is far from a reason to see a switchover towards the Apple ecosystem or a TAM expansion,” adds Weebler.
And that’s a problem for a company that is trading at a TTM Price-to-Earnings (GAAP) ratio of 36.5x, which is some 25% higher than the sector median, details the investor. Weebler also makes note that Warren Buffett – the Oracle of Omaha himself – has been selling his company’s Apple shares over the past few years.
That’s another sign that, according to Weebler Finance, it’s time to take the money and run.
“Since I do not believe current AI partnerships meaningfully contribute to growth of such proportions, I am rating the stock as a Sell,” concludes Weebler Finance. (To watch Weebler Finance’s track record, click here)
This differs from most of Wall Street, who appears content to stick around. With 16 Buys, 12 Holds, and 1 Sell rating, AAPL enjoys a Moderate Buy consensus rating. Its 12-month average price target of $239.36 implies minimal movement in the year ahead. (See AAPL stock forecast)
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Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured investor. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.