Apple's stock (AAPL) has experienced mixed performance in 2025, with a 5% rise overall despite an 18% decline in the first half of the year due to valuation concerns, tariffs, and AI race worries. Recently, the stock has gained momentum, rising 23% in three months, and is on track to close the year strongly, potentially carrying this momentum into 2026. The latest iPhone 17 sales are promising, with reports indicating a 14% higher sales increase in the US and China, and the base model's sales doubling in China within the first 10 days. An estimated 315 million iPhone users haven't upgraded in four years, suggesting significant upgrade potential that could boost future sales beyond the 236 million units expected by Morgan Stanley. Despite a Wall Street median price target of $256, current estimates of revenue—projected at nearly $440 billion for the fiscal year—could push Apple's market cap to $4.5 trillion, implying potential upside to $302 per share. Technical analysis shows Apple is in wave five of an Elliott impulse pattern, reaching a new all-time high with nested impulses indicating strong momentum. Analysts and investors remain optimistic about Apple's growth driven by AI advancements, global expansion, and product innovation, though some caution remains regarding regulatory risks and market valuation. Overall, Apple's recent performance and technical outlook suggest justified growth prospects, with potential for further gains in 2026.