Apple Shareholders Reject Anti-DEI Proposal

Apple Inc. shareholders rejected a proposal from the National Center for Public Policy Research to scrap its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The conservative think tank argued that DEI initiatives expose companies to litigation, reputational, and financial risks, citing recent court rulings and a federal lawsuit filed by James Uthmeier against Oracle Corporation. Despite these concerns and a broader backlash against DEI programs, Apple Inc. management, including CEO Tim Cook, steadfastly defended its initiatives, asserting they are integral to the company's culture and success, contributing to its $3.7 trillion market value. This outcome mirrors a similar rejection of an anti-DEI proposal at Costco's annual meeting. Apple Inc. also announced plans to invest $500 billion in the United States and create 20,000 jobs over the next five years, a move applauded by Donald Trump, who has otherwise been critical of DEI programs.