Apple Joins the Dow Jones Industrial Average

The Dow Jones Industrial Average, a premier stock market index, is making a significant change this month by adding Apple, the most valuable company in the world. Apple will replace AT&T in the exclusive club of 30 stocks, which also includes renowned tech giants and consumer brands. This move comes as Apple continues to expand its presence in the tech industry, with the upcoming release of its Apple Watch and a market value nearing $740 billion.

Key Takeaways:

• Apple will join the Dow Jones Industrial Average, replacing AT&T, on March 18.
• David Blitzer, managing director and chairman of the index committee at S&P Dow Jones Indices, stated that Apple's leadership in technology and its position as the largest corporation in the world make it the clear choice for the Dow.
• The addition of Apple to the Dow reflects the company's significant impact on the tech industry and its massive market value.
• Apple shares were up over 1% in premarket trading following the announcement.
• Analysts predict that Apple's market value could reach the $1 trillion level in the next few years.
• The Dow Jones Industrial Average also includes Microsoft, Intel, and Cisco Systems, among other prominent tech companies.

Statistics:

• Apple will join the Dow Jones Industrial Average at a market value of nearly $740 billion.
• Apple's market value is expected to reach $1 trillion in the next few years.
• The Dow Jones Industrial Average is composed of 30 prominent stocks, including tech giants and consumer brands.
• Apple's stock price has increased over 1% in premarket trading following the announcement.
• The addition of Apple to the Dow Jones Industrial Average will take effect at the close of trading on March 18.

Sources:

• CNNMoney: "Apple to join Dow Jones Industrial Average" (original article)
• S&P Dow Jones Indices: (company website described in the article)
• David Blitzer, S&P Dow Jones Indices (quoted in the article)