Apple once again tops one of the world's most important reputation rankings in 2026. For the 19th consecutive year, Apple has taken first place on Fortune's list of "World's Most Admired Companies." This reaffirms the exceptional consistency with which Apple has been considered a benchmark for corporate governance, product quality, and brand strength for almost two decades.
Fortune's annual ranking is based on a comprehensive industry survey. Around 3,000 executives, directors, and analysts evaluate companies within their respective sectors. The assessment is based on clearly defined criteria, including management quality, innovation, product and service quality, social responsibility, and the ability to attract and retain talent. The 2026 ranking again shows that Apple excels across all industries in these categories.
Apple has been at the top for 19 years
Fortune highlights that Apple has secured the top spot for the 19th consecutive year. This ranking is particularly noteworthy given the significant increase in the influence of artificial intelligence across nearly every industry. Despite many market observers' critical views on Apple's progress in AI, respondents continue to give the company top marks. Apple's proactive management of talent, capital, and supply chains, as well as its long-term strategic direction, are especially praised.
Other top rankings for Apple in the Fortune universe
In addition to its first place among the world's most respected companies, Apple achieved other strong rankings last year:
- Ranked 8th on the Fortune Global 500 list
- Ranked 4th on the Fortune 500 list
- Ranked 3rd on the list of America's most innovative companies
- Ranked #1 among industry leaders in the technology sector
These results show that Apple is among the world's leading companies not only in terms of reputation, but also economically and organizationally.
The influence of AI on the 2026 ranking
Artificial intelligence significantly shapes this year's ranking. Fortune points out that companies with a strong AI focus are gaining particular importance. GPU manufacturer Nvidia reaches fourth place, placing it among the top performers. Two newcomers also owe their ranking to the growing significance of AI:
- Advanced Micro Devices ranked 48th
- Workday ranked 49th
Despite this development, Apple remains in first place, as respondents place greater emphasis on stability, management quality and sustainable innovation than short-term technology trends.
The top 10 most respected companies worldwide in 2026
The ten top-ranked companies at a glance:
- Apple
- Microsoft
- Amazon
- Nvidia
- JPMorgan Chase
- Berkshire Hathaway
- Costco Wholesale
- alphabet
- Walmart
- American Express
Compared to last year, there were slight shifts within the top 10. JPMorgan Chase improved by two places, while Walmart overtook Alphabet. However, no new companies entered the top group.
Changes in the technology sector outside the top 10
There were also significant movements in the technology sector outside the top 10:
- Netflix climbs three places to rank 12.
- Salesforce drops three places to rank 20.
- IBM improves its ranking by eleven places to 32nd.
- Accenture falls to rank 33
- TSMC climbs nine places to rank 36.
- Samsung Electronics drops twelve places and lands in 37th position.
These shifts illustrate how strongly technological developments, market trends, and strategic decisions influence the reputation of global corporations.
Apple will prevail against growing competition in 2026 as well
Apple reaffirmed its exceptional position in the global economy in 2026. Its 19th consecutive first-place ranking on Fortune's list of the world's most respected companies underscores the company's long-term stability, consistent management, and continued relevance. Despite the growing importance of AI and increasing competition, Apple remains the benchmark against which many industry experts measure other corporations. (Image: Shutterstock / bluestork)
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