Before the unprecedented levels of artificial intelligence spending lifted Nvidia to new heights, Apple (AAPL 0.35%) was long the most valuable company in the world. The consumer technology juggernaut has found remarkable success with its popular products and services. It still sports a massive $3.8 trillion market cap today.
Long-term shareholders should have no complaints. If you invested $10,000 in Apple stock a decade ago, here's how much you'd have today.
Crushing the market
A company doesn't get to be valued in the trillions of dollars without taking care of its investors. This is what Apple has done. In the past 10 years, the business has generated a total return of 938% (as of Sept. 30), which would have seen a $10,000 starting sum turn into an incredible $103,800.
This gain significantly outperforms the broader S&P 500. The closely watched index has put up a total return of 321% during the same time.
Key factors driving returns
Investors should understand what variables supported Apple's returns. In this instance, net income was up 119% between Q3 2015 and Q3 2025 (ended June 28). The business has been able to sell more of its devices, like the iPhone, MacBook, Watch, and AirPods, over time. What's more, Apple's services division is growing at a double-digit pace and posts a high gross margin.
The other key factor supporting the stock has been valuation expansion. Apple's price-to-earnings ratio, which currently sits at 38.6, has increased by 207% in the past decade.
