Warren Buffett Unfazed by DOJ Antitrust Lawsuit Against Apple, Unlikely to Sell More Stock

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ICARO Media Group
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30/03/2024 20h11

In recent years, billionaire investor Warren Buffett has been a well-known supporter of Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL). However, some are speculating that his enthusiasm for the tech giant may be waning. Berkshire Hathaway, Buffett's conglomerate, reduced its position in Apple in the fourth quarter of 2023, prior to the announcement of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) antitrust lawsuit against the company.

The DOJ, along with 16 state and district attorneys general, filed a lawsuit against Apple, alleging that the company violated antitrust laws. U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland stated that Apple had maintained monopoly power in the smartphone market by violating federal antitrust law.

The DOJ's complaint listed several specific allegations against Apple, including accusations of anti-competitive behavior. Apple, on its part, firmly denied all allegations and declared its intention to vigorously defend itself, stating that the lawsuit threatens the principles that set their products apart in competitive markets.

Given the lawsuit, many are wondering whether Buffett will sell more of his Apple stock. While it is a possibility, it seems unlikely. Buffett has historically stood by his favorite companies facing antitrust scrutiny and has refrained from selling their shares. For instance, Buffett did not sell any of Berkshire Hathaway's shares in Coca-Cola during investigations by European Union and U.S. antitrust regulators.

Furthermore, Buffett has previously expressed his belief that Apple is a superior business compared to others in Berkshire Hathaway's portfolio. This suggests that the DOJ's allegations are unlikely to change his viewpoint, especially given the relatively short period of time since the lawsuit was filed.

It is also plausible that the recent sale of approximately 10 million Apple shares was not directly initiated by Buffett. One of Berkshire Hathaway's other two investment managers or General Reinsurance, a subsidiary of Berkshire that Buffett does not directly control, could be responsible for the transaction.

While there may be legitimate reasons to consider selling Apple stock, such as the company's slowing growth and its high valuation, the DOJ lawsuit should not be a deciding factor. Apple is expected to mount a strong defense against the allegations, and the lawsuit may merely serve as a distraction. Additionally, Apple's CEO Tim Cook recently highlighted the company's significant investments in generative AI, hinting at a promising future in the technology.

Apple's annual developers conference, scheduled for June 10 to 14, is anticipated to unveil the company's artificial intelligence (AI) strategy, which could add more value to its stock. Therefore, it would be premature for investors to sell their shares before Apple reveals its AI plans.

Ultimately, Buffet's stance on Apple and the DOJ antitrust lawsuit suggests that he is unlikely to sell more of his Apple stock anytime soon. Investors considering Apple should weigh the company's future prospects and developments before making any decisions.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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