Apple became the world’s most valuable publicly traded company in 2018 after reaching a $1 trillion market capitalization.
Apple crossed the $1 trillion threshold on August 2, 2018, making it the first public company to reach that valuation. Its market capitalization then exceeded those of other major listed companies, including technology and energy businesses.
The company’s valuation was supported by the iPhone ecosystem, which connected hardware sales with software, accessories, subscriptions, and services. Apple also generated revenue from Mac computers, iPads, Apple Watch, AirPods, and the App Store.
“Most valuable” in this context means highest market capitalization among publicly traded companies at a particular time. It does not mean the company had the highest sales, owned the most physical assets, or was the most profitable by every accounting measure.