Melius Research vs Morgan Stanley

Apple's iPhone Duo Shows Strong Preorder Demand, Boosts Growth Outlook

Apple's first foldable device, the iPhone Duo, is showing extremely strong early demand following its preorder launch, validating Jim Cramer's bullish prediction. Morgan Stanley reports record global preorder lead times, with the earliest delivery dates for some models more than three months out, the longest in the last 10 years. This demand is seen as a key catalyst for Apple's growth, with Melius Research estimating over 15 million units could be sold in fiscal 2027, generating roughly $40 billion in revenue. The analyst notes that the strong Duo demand may also help iPhone 18 sales. Apple's stock has surpassed a $5 trillion market cap for the first time, and the company is expected to report earnings on November 2.

• Apple's iPhone Duo preorders started Friday, with strong demand indicated by long shipping delays.
• Morgan Stanley reported the global 14-week average preorder lead time is a record, the longest of any iPhone model in 10 years.
• Melius Research estimates Apple could sell at least 15 million Duo units in fiscal 2027, generating about $40 billion in revenue.

Intel could hit $200 per share in two years, says Melius analyst

Melius Research analyst Ben Reitzes has set a buy rating on Intel with a $165 price target, implying about 70% upside from the previous close, but sees the stock reaching as high as $200 per share within two years. Reitzes bases his bullish outlook on potential foundry agreements with Apple, Tesla, and another hyperscaler, and strong server CPU pricing and AI PC mix that could drive product earnings above $4. He also notes a Reuters report that Intel is considering a deal to help SK Hynix manufacture memory chips in the U.S., potentially leasing part of its Ohio facility. Intel shares have gained roughly 300% over the past 12 months, and the stock was up more than 4% on the day. The analyst's view contrasts with consensus, as only 15 of 50 analysts rate it a buy.

• Melius Research has a buy rating on Intel with a $165 price target, implying ~70% upside.
• Analyst Ben Reitzes sees Intel trading as high as $200 per share in the next two years.
• Intel could rally on foundry agreements with Apple, Tesla, and another hyperscaler, per analyst.

Amazon's Path to Recovery: AWS Growth and AI Strategy

The article discusses Amazon's stock performance, which has dropped over 7% from its record high in August. Morgan Stanley analysts added Amazon to their top picks and raised their price target to $350, citing under-appreciated AWS growth and profitability. The key factors for Amazon's recovery include strong AWS revenue growth, better-than-expected operating margins, the strategic value of Bedrock, success in agentic AI, and potential savings from physical AI robotics in fulfillment centers. CEO Andy Jassy's commentary on AI investment returns and data center lifecycle is central to investor confidence. Amazon's Q3 earnings are expected on Oct. 29.

• Amazon's stock dropped over 7% from its record high of $284 on Aug. 3.
• Morgan Stanley raised Amazon's price target to $350 from $335 and added it to top picks.
• Amazon's Q3 earnings are scheduled for Oct. 29 after market close.

Morgan Stanley Says Seagate Stock Could Rally 82%

Morgan Stanley reiterated its overweight rating on Seagate Technology Holdings and raised its 12-month price target slightly to $1,200 from $1,187, implying nearly 82% upside from the previous close. Analyst Erik Woodring cited strong demand for hard disk drives (HDDs) that has outpaced supply, with a 400-exabyte shortfall noted by HSBC. He believes the market resembles memory a year ago, with margins well below peak and pricing accelerating. Seagate's recent spot deals have priced at two to five times contracted levels, which could drive further upside. The consensus on Wall Street is also bullish, with 24 of 27 analysts rating the stock a buy or strong buy. Seagate shares have fallen 23% in the past month but are up 140% year to date and 208% in the past 12 months.

• Morgan Stanley raised its 12-month price target on Seagate to $1,200 from $1,187, implying nearly 82% upside.
• Analyst Erik Woodring cited strong HDD demand outpacing supply and a 400-exabyte shortfall.
• Seagate's recent spot deals were priced at two to five times contracted levels.

Morgan Stanley Capital Partners Acquires The Rapid Group

Morgan Stanley Capital Partners acquires The Rapid Group, a press release dated October 20, 2026.