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Can Apple’s (AAPL) Record Quarter Justify Its Multiple?
Apple's record quarter raises valuation questions amid earnings surprise scrutiny.
Context
What happened: Apple reported fiscal third-quarter 2026 revenue of $109.4 billion, up 16 percent, with June-quarter records for revenue, EPS and operating cash flow. It also introduced a new Siri AI and child safety features.
Key numbers: Revenue $109.4 billion, up 16 percent.
Why it matters: Analysts question whether the multiple is justified, since tariff refunds lifted margin and EPS, making the 29 percent EPS growth look non-repeatable. Apple said iPhone, Mac and Services grew double digits and its installed base hit an all-time high.
What changed
Apple reported fiscal third-quarter 2026 revenue of $109.4 billion, up 16 percent, with June-quarter records for revenue, EPS and operating cash flow. It also introduced a new Siri AI and child safety features.
Why it matters
Analysts question whether the multiple is justified, since tariff refunds lifted margin and EPS, making the 29 percent EPS growth look non-repeatable. Apple said iPhone, Mac and Services grew double digits and its installed base hit an all-time high.