Apple surpasses Nvidia and becomes the most valuable company in the world

Apple became the most valuable company in the world this Friday (July 17, 2026), reaching a market value of US$4.88 trillion. Nvidia, which had led the ranking since October 2025, fell to US$4.86 trillion after its shares fell 3.5%. The information is from Reuters.

The change took place during investors’ reassessment of the AI ​​(artificial intelligence) market. Until then, Nvidia concentrated much of the optimism because it was the main supplier of chips used in generative AI systems. Now, part of the market has come to see Apple as a company better positioned to transform technology into recurring revenue.

Toni Meadows, head of investments at BRI Wealth Management, told Reuters that Apple is no longer seen as a latecomer in the AI ​​race. For him, the company is less exposed to the high cost of investments in infrastructure and has greater capacity to monetize technology through services, loyalty to its ecosystem and the sale of new devices.

COMPANY TRANSITION

The appreciation comes at a time of transition in the company. According to the ReutersCEO Tim Cook prepares the succession for September, when he will hand over command to the current head of the hardware division, John Ternus.

Last month, Apple presented a new version of the virtual assistant Siri, developed to expand the use of artificial intelligence in its products. Analysts estimate that the company can use the data stored on iPhones to make the tool more personalized, although it still faces the challenge of reconciling this potential with its privacy policy.

Despite losing its leadership, Nvidia remains among the main beneficiaries of the expansion of artificial intelligence. The company was the first in the world to surpass US$5 trillion in market value, in October 2025, driven by demand for its AI-focused graphics processors. Analysts estimate that the company could regain leadership if market sentiment returns to favor the sector.

The advancement of investments in artificial intelligence has also increased interest in other companies in the semiconductor sector. Memory chip makers such as Micron surpassed $1 trillion in market value this year, while South Korean SK Hynix expanded its presence among investors after listing its shares on the Nasdaq.

In July, however, the sector underwent a correction. The Philadelphia Semiconductor index, which brings together semiconductor companies, has fallen almost 19% compared to its historical peak, reflecting doubts about the pace of growth in investments in artificial intelligence. Still, the index continues to outperform Nvidia shares in 2026.