Apple Tops 2026 Most Admired Firms as AI Companies Gain Prominence
Apple retains its crown as the world's most admired company in 2026, according to industry experts, despite scrutiny over its AI progress. The tech giant's mastery of talent management, capital allocation, and supply chain efficiency continues to impress peers across 51 sectors.
Nvidia's breakthrough AI developments propelled it to 4th place, while AMD and Workday entered the Top 50 at 48th and 49th respectively. The rankings reveal how artificial intelligence is reshaping corporate prestige, with semiconductor firms and tech leaders dominating the upper echelons.
Notable shifts occurred beyond the AI sector. Whirlpool reclaimed its home equipment leadership after an eight-year hiatus, while MetLife topped insurance categories for the first time in a decade. Thirty-five female-led companies marked another milestone, representing 10% of ranked firms.
