Apple Inc. (AAPL) Stock Price Target Raised to $123; Samsung's New Products 'Half-Baked'
Apple Inc's stock may have fallen following Samsung's official release of the new Galaxy Note 4 but analysts still believe shares will bounce back after the company's iPhone 6 release. According to reports, Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Brian White called Samsung's event "underwhelming."
White, who maintains a "Buy" rating for Apple stock, said things may have just gotten "easier for Apple" since the launch of Samsung's latest products proved to be less than exciting. The analyst had previously predicted Apple's new product lineup is expected to "most exciting" in many years.
White said Samsung decided to introduce its new products ahead of Apple's September 9 event in an attempt to attract consumers away from the iPhone manufacturer. The analyst found Samsung's strategy as "ill-advised" since its product launch was "half-baked." White noted there was no mention of prices and launch dates. Samsung had reportedly resorted to introducing "gimmicky" features with limited tech specifications.
As to the Galaxy Note 4, the reputable analyst find little to get excited about. Samsung said the device will be available by October. White expects Apple to put its latest iPhone on sale on Sept. 19. If Apple will push through, it will give the company an edge over Samsung.
Apple's "Fab Fall" is expected to push the stock price to $123. White is optimistic about Apple's rumoured 5.5inch iPhone which can help the company gain market share in China's smartphone market. Although rumours said the 5.5-inch model will be released later than the 4.7-inch version, White said it will not have a significant effect in overall iPhone sales.
Rumours of an iWatch to be released this year have become more persistent. White believes the wearable device could be introduced on Sept. 9. However, he agrees with recent rumours that the iWatch will be available on a later date.
White said it would be wise for Apple to make sure the iWatch is available in time for the holiday season in December. The analyst has a $123 price target for Apple stock.
Piper Jaffray's Gene Munster had increased its price target to $120 due to Apple's growth in consumer electronics.