Apple suppliers Luxshare Precision Industry and Foxconn have allegedly begun production of the Apple watch in northern Vietnam, aiming to have it produced outside of China for the first time, as Nikkei Asia reports on August 17.  Additionally, it seems that the HomePod smart speakers could also be produced in Vietnam in due time. In the past, Apple produced its AirPods and iPads in Vietnam; however, this broader production shift could enable the firm to avoid supply chain disruptions, the likes of which have been seen during the Covid pandemic. Furthermore, this diversification could help AAPL shares to reach new highs as one of the issues in terms of supply could be solved. 

AAPL chart and analysis 

Overall, the long and short-term trends are both positive as AAPL is trading in the upper part of its 52-week range. Over the past month, the shares stayed between $150.37 and $173.71.  Further, technical analysis shows a support zone between $149.77 and $151.59, with the resistance line at $175.53.    Meanwhile, TipRanks analysts rate the shares as a ‘strong buy’, seeing the average price in the next 12 months reaching $182.79, 5.64% higher than the current trading price of $173.03, while only one of the 28 experts advocates to sell.

Supply chains

Consequently, the tensions between the US and China have been a boon for Vietnam as more and more companies look to diversify their production away from the nation.  Eddie Han, a senior analyst with Isaiah Research stated: With the view of China being the world’s most important factory, other Asian countries may profit, along with the shareholders of companies looking to strengthen and diversify their supply chains.  Buy stocks now with Interactive Brokers – the most advanced investment platform Disclaimer: The content on this site should not be considered investment advice. Investing is speculative. When investing, your capital is at risk.