Analysts Bullish on Apple as iPhone 18 Pro Sales Begin

Analysts are optimistic about Apple's stock performance as the company begins selling its iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models. The devices are priced $100 higher than their predecessors, but surveys indicate a growing interest in the new products. A recent poll by Evercore ISI found that 53% of respondents planned to purchase an iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max, up from 51% previously.

Evercore ISI analyst Amit Daryanani said the latest launches are expected to contribute to a stronger-than-expected iPhone refresh cycle. He highlighted higher prices, a greater mix of higher-priced models, and increased memory configurations as potential drivers of pricing. The analyst also pointed out that trade-in credits from US wireless carriers have increased, with some offering up to $1,200 for the iPhone 18 Pro Max.

Other firms, including Bank of America and Morgan Stanley, are also bullish on Apple's latest iPhone cycle. BofA analyst Wamsi Mohan said richer carrier promotions could help support demand despite higher prices. Morgan Stanley reiterated its Overweight rating on Apple, alongside Meta and Alphabet, citing the companies' strong positioning in emerging AI-driven technology markets.