Apple (AAPL) has overtaken Nvidia (NVDA) to become the world’s most valuable company. Apple’s market cap reached $4.92 trillion on Friday, July 17, 2026, overtaking the chip manufacturer’s $4.86 trillion valuation. The value spike comes after Apple was approved to offer AI services in China. Let’s discuss what’s next.
Will Apple Maintain Its Upswing After Overtaking Nvidia?
China’s internet regulatory agency, the Cyberspace Administration of China, recently approved Apple to offer its Apple Intelligence services in China with models developed by Baidu and Alibaba. We are yet to get a launch date for the AI services. The move has likely led to a massive surge in investor sentiment. Apple (AAPL) stock price closed 1.76% (5.76 points) higher on Thursday, July 16, 2026.
Apple’s AI entry into China may play a significant role in bolstering the company’s presence in the country. The company generated $20.5 billion in sales in Greater China in Q2, a 28% jump from the previous year. Apple also became the 2nd-largest smartphone company in the country. However, whether if it can help retain the number one spot in the list of most valuable companies is up for debate.
Veteran trader Warren Buffet also showered support Apple (AAPL), stating that it remains one of his favorite businesses. Buffet’s Berkshire Hathaway owns about $70 billion worth of Apple stock.
Also Read: President Trump Sold Micron Stock, Bought Nvidia: Should You?
Nvidia and Apple are on two different trajectories. Nvidia has been the market leader for AI chips that are seeing more and more demand amid an AI boom. AI spending is expected to continue growing in the coming years. Data centers have become the new norm and new projects are being approved ever so quickly. The AI surge could propel Nvidia back to the number one spot in the future.