Stock Movers: Apple, Cleveland-Cliffs, AppLovin (Podcast)

Apple (AAPL) shares reached a 2025 record high following a Loop Capital upgrade to 'buy,' driven by robust iPhone 17 demand, which is 14% higher than its predecessor in early sales. Cleveland-Cliffs (CLF) surged 21.47% after reporting stronger-than-expected earnings, disclosing a new metal producer pact, and identifying potential rare earth mineral sites. Conversely, AppLovin (APP) was the S&P's worst performer amid reports of state regulators contacting short sellers for a possible preliminary probe into the mobile advertising company.

Analysis

Apple (AAPL) shares reached a new 2025 record high following an upgrade from Loop Capital to 'buy' from 'hold', driven by robust demand for its latest iPhone 17 series. The iPhone 17 has demonstrated significant market traction, outselling its predecessor, the iPhone 16, by 14% in the initial ten days of sales across the US and China. This performance underscores strong consumer adoption and validates the company's product strategy.

Cleveland-Cliffs (CLF) experienced a substantial 21.47% surge in its share price, attributed to stronger-than-expected earnings and the announcement of a new pact with another metal producer. Further bolstering its outlook, the company disclosed the discovery of two potential rare earth mineral sites in Michigan and Minnesota, initiating an evaluation for extraction feasibility. This development signals potential diversification and long-term value creation in critical materials.

Conversely, AppLovin (APP) emerged as the S&P's worst performer, with its stock declining significantly following reports of a possible preliminary probe by state regulators. The New York Post indicated that regulators have contacted multiple short sellers regarding the mobile advertising company, introducing regulatory uncertainty and potential operational scrutiny. This news presents a notable headwind for the company's near-term outlook.

Key Decisions for Investors

• Investors should monitor Apple's continued iPhone 17 sales momentum and future product pipeline, as strong consumer demand and analyst upgrades suggest sustained positive sentiment and potential for further upside.
• Consider Cleveland-Cliffs' enhanced earnings performance and strategic initiatives in rare earth minerals as potential long-term value drivers, but evaluate the feasibility and timeline of rare earth extraction.
• Exercise caution with AppLovin given the emerging regulatory probe, as this introduces significant uncertainty and potential downside risk that warrants close monitoring of developments.