AI boom drives Apple's stock price to hit a new all-time high during trading, firmly holding the top spot in market capitalization

Apple Inc. shares extended gains on Tuesday, rising to a record high during the session, benefiting from market optimism that the company will benefit from the launch of the artificial intelligence iPhone. The stock rose 2.7% to $237.49 at one point, hitting its first record high since July. This surge solidified Apple's position as the world's largest company, with its market value surpassing $3.6 trillion. While large tech companies broadly rose, Apple's performance was particularly strong. The stock has risen 37% in the past six months, more than double the 15.5% gain of the Nasdaq 100 index