MicroStrategy's executive chairman and a well-known Bitcoin maximalist, has publicly challenged Apple to ditch its underperforming stock buyback program in favor of acquiring Bitcoin.
His bold call, made on June 10 via X, was a direct response to criticism from financial commentator Jim Cramer, who deemed Apple’s current buyback strategy ineffective.
Apple’s stock has dropped over 17% this year, despite its massive $110 billion buyback initiative announced in May 2024. In stark contrast, Bitcoin has surged over 17% in the same period, and a staggering 1,000% over the past five years, far outpacing Apple’s 137% gain.
Saylor argues this stark difference in performance makes Bitcoin a far superior investment for the tech giant’s capital.
This isn’t just Saylor’s personal opinion; it reflects a growing trend of corporate Bitcoin adoption. Companies like GameStop, which recently bought 4,710 BTC for $513 million, are increasingly adding crypto to their balance sheets.
Japan’s Metaplanet has become the world’s eighth-largest corporate Bitcoin holder, even planning to raise $5.4 billion for more acquisitions.
Similarly, Paris-based The Blockchain Group has amassed over 1,471 BTC and aims to raise another $340 million for its Bitcoin treasury. Saylor’s push for Apple signals a desire for one of the world’s most influential companies to join this emerging financial paradigm.
Bitcoin held firm near the $105,000 level on June 13, shaking off the worst of a steep dip triggered by renewed conflict in the Middle East.
Pakistan has found an unexpected use for the electricity it routinely leaves untapped: power thousands of Bitcoin rigs and AI servers.
Bitcoin is under renewed pressure following Friday’s Israeli airstrike on Iran, which has deepened market anxiety and driven investors toward safer assets.
Matt Hougan, CIO at Bitwise Asset Management, believes a powerful shift is underway—one that could reshape how companies manage their capital.