Apple Analyst Flags 2 China Risks From Geopolitical Tensions — And Potential Solutions

Apple, Inc. AAPL may have to rework its strategy amid growing geopolitical tensions as it faces two major risks, according to noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

What Happened: In a series of tweets late Wednesday, Kuo said Apple’s supply-chain management in the past primarily focused on quality and costs.

“But now, rising geopolitical risks are creating new deglobalization challenges and increasing the complexity of supply chain management,” the TFI International Securities analyst said.

The analyst said he sees current geopolitical risks affecting Apple on two fronts: China sales and supply-chain efficiency.

Related Link: China Might Slow Global Tech Supply Chain More As Response To Pelosi's Taiwan Trip, Munster Warns

Kuo's Solutions: To counter demand softness in China — Apple's most important overseas market — Kuo recommended the company does business with more Chinese suppliers. 

To circumvent supply chain risks, Kuo said Apple should build more production centers outside China — something the company has already thought about recently.

When a Twitter user asked if Apple's implementation of the second solution would create more hurdles in China and nullify the benefits of the first, Kuo said Apple could ask its Chinese suppliers to build more non-Chinese production bases.

“Apple has already been implementing both solutions and is expected to accelerate progress in the foreseeable future,” Kuo said.

Price Action: Apple closed Wednesday’s session 3.82% higher at $166.13, according to Benzinga Pro data.

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