The stock market has gotten off to an interesting start in 2025. With some of the big winners of 2024 sliding in the first week, some caution has grown from investors. Moreover, Apple (AAPL) has been one of several downgrades, although its recent $188 target may not tell the whole story.

Apple joined Tesla as getting a revised outlook that downgraded its rating early this year. Specifically, MoffettNathanson has lowered the stock to a sell from its neutral rating. Although there are plenty of reasons to be concerned, things may not appear as bad as they seem.

Also Read: Citi Gives Apple Stock Buy Rating: Can AAPL Hit $300 in 2025?

Apple to $188? Tech Stock Takes Center Stage Amid Troubling Start to 2025

Entering the new year, Apple had maintained a fair amount of hype. Morgan Stanley had chosen the company as its top stock pick of 2025. Moreover, there was reason to believe that it would increase its competitiveness in key areas that were likely to experience surging demand this year.

However, a lot of that has proven to not be the case. Indeed, the tech company has struggled with some concerning developments coming to the forefront. Its market share in China has taken a notable hit, and its recent $1 billion offer to lift Indonesia’s iPhone ban has been rejected. Not to mention some important legal troubles that have arisen.

These facts were part of the reason analyst at MoffettNathanson gave Apple (AAPL) stock a downgrade, although their $188 price target may not tell the whole story. The first noted Apple has faced “a steady drumbeat of bad news.” Moreover, promising developments like its Vision Pr “disappointed even the low expectations that had been set for it. But what does the rest of Wall Street think?

Also Read: Amazon, Apple, & Nvidia Lead Dow Jones Stocks to Watch in 2025

Of 53 total analysts, Apple stock still has a buy rating for 66% of experts, according to CNN. Moreover, just 6% have lowered the grade to sell. Additionally, the stock is facing a $300 target on the high end, with its median price projection sitting at $250 for the next 12 months.

AAPL Financials doesn’t expire much confidence, as net income and earnings per share are down 37% and 33% over eth last twelve months, respectively. However, there is still more than meets the eye. The company has appointed a new CFO, and that should provide a new direction. Although it may not be a millionaire maker this year, it should certainly fend off a collapse below $200.