Overview

• LightShed Partners analysts Walter Piecyk and Joe Galone argue Apple needs a CEO prioritizing breakthrough products over logistics
• Apple shares are down 16% in 2025, trailing gains of 25% at Meta and 19% at Microsoft this year
• The research note cautions that falling behind in artificial intelligence could fundamentally alter Apple’s long-term trajectory
• Apple confirmed that Chief Operating Officer Jeff Williams will retire this month and that Sabih Khan will take over the role
• Despite calls for leadership change, Apple’s board has declared its loyalty to Tim Cook with no successor currently in the wings