Largest Companies by Market Cap
When it comes to deciding what types of stocks to invest in, there are several things to consider, including a company’s history, leadership, and market capitalization. Many serious investors choose to invest in stocks with the largest market caps.
So many investors choose larger market cap companies because investments in large-cap stocks are often considered more conservative than investing in small-cap or mid-cap stocks. As a result, large-cap stocks usually pose fewer risks.
However, there is less aggressive growth potential. Although, many large-cap stocks offer consistent dividend payouts small-cap stock investments don’t have the capital to provide. These dividend payouts also help offset the lower growth potential.
Moreover, large-cap stocks are typically the first companies to bounce back during market fluctuations, giving you the investor more confidence in your investments.
So, what are the largest companies by market cap? Today, we’ll explore some of the largest companies by market capitalization so you can make an educated decision should you want in on a more conservative investment opportunity.
Apple Inc. (APPL)
There aren’t many people in the world unfamiliar with Apple. This company designs, manufactures, and sells smartphones, personal computers, tablets, wearables, and accessories.
Their most notable products include the iPhone, Mac computer, and iPad. They also offer other related services such as Apple TV streaming, iCloud digital content and payment services, and more. Apple’s customers are mainly everyday consumers.
However, they also serve small and mid-sized businesses, education, enterprise, and government markets. The company’s last close price was set at $157.44, and its market cap is approximately $2.6 trillion, making Apple the current largest company by market cap.
Microsoft (MSFT)
Another major company that most people know and use is Microsoft Corp. Microsoft engages in developing software, services, and devices. Microsoft’s segments include productivity and business processes, cloud computing, and personal computing.
The company’s many products include operating systems, productivity applications, server applications, business solutions, desktop and server management tools, software development tools, video games, and more.
The last close price on Microsoft stock was $275.85, and their market cap is roughly $2.15 trillion, making them a close second to Apple as the largest company by market capitalization.
Alphabet (GOOG; GOOGL)
Today, everyone should be familiar with Alphabet, Inc. and their primary company, Google. Alphabet operates as a holding company specializing in the acquisition and operation of various companies.
Their segments include Google services, Google Cloud, advertising, and multiple products and services like Android, Chrome, Google Maps, Google Play, YouTube, and the world’s foremost search engine. Alphabet stocks are in two formats, including GOOG and GOOGL.
The last close price for GOOG was $2,545.57 and for GOOGL was $2,542.09. The market cap for GOOG is currently about $1.68 trillion, while GOOGL is $1.67 trillion. As a result, Alphabet Inc. holds the third and fourth spots for the largest businesses by market cap.
Amazon.com (AMZN)
Finally, it should come as no surprise that the next company on the list is Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon provides online retail shopping services, the manufacture and sale of electronic devices, and the development and production of media content.
Some of Amazon’s services include their online retail site that purchases and resells from vendors and third parties and the Amazon Prime membership program that includes free shipping and its streaming service. Amazon has various products as well, including Kindle, Fire tablet, and Fire TV.
This company also offers several technology services, including storage, database, analytics, machine learning, and cloud computing. Amazon’s last close price was $2,720.29, and its current market cap is about $1.38 trillion, bringing them in as the fifth-largest company by market cap.
Large-Cap Investments
Large-cap companies are a popular choice if you’re looking for a more conservative investment strategy. So, when choosing your large-cap investments, keep these top five companies in mind. Here are more details:
Characteristics of Large-Cap Investments
- Stability: They tend to be less volatile than small- or mid-cap stocks, meaning their prices don’t fluctuate as dramatically.
- Income Potential: Many large-cap companies pay regular dividends, providing investors with a stream of income.
- Liquidity: Large-cap stocks are bought and sold frequently, making it easy to get in or out of an investment.
Pros and Cons of Large-Cap Investments
Pros
- Lower risk compared to smaller companies.
- Potential for steady growth and income.
- Easier to research and analyze due to their visibility.
Cons
- May offer lower growth potential compared to smaller companies.
- Can be susceptible to overall market downturns.
Large-Cap Investment Options
- Individual Stocks: You can buy shares of individual large-cap companies.
- Mutual Funds: Invest in a basket of large-cap stocks for instant diversification.
- Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): Similar to mutual funds, but trade on an exchange like stocks.
Should You Invest in Large-Cap Stocks?
Large-cap investments are a good option if you’re looking for stability and income potential. They often form the foundation of a diversified investment portfolio, especially for risk-averse investors.
Important Note: It’s always advisable to conduct research or consult with a financial advisor before making investment decisions.