Outgoing Apple CEO Tim Cook on Thursday’s earnings call took a moment to thank shareholder for putting their trust in him for so many years. It was Cook’s last earnings call as Apple CEO. Cook will step down on September 1, with John Ternus taking over as Apple’s new CEO. Cook will move into the executive chairman’s set when Ternus takes over as CEO.
“I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you to all of you, from our shareholders, particularly our long-term shareholders who have put their trust in us for so many years, to the analysts who have followed our company so closely. As you know, this will be my final earnings call, and John will lead these calls going forward.”
Cook said the transition to Ternus is “going seamlessly,” and he is optimistic about Apple’s future under Ternus.
“As I’ve said, I couldn’t be more confident in his leadership, in our executive team, and in the extraordinary people at Apple who are determined to enrich the lives of our users all over the world. We have a bright future ahead, and I truly have never been more optimistic.”
Cook said earlier this year that he plans to serve as executive chairman “for a long time,” with Apple continuing to be his top priority.
When Ternus takes over, he won’t face an easy job. He’ll be forced to deal with rising costs, while also being forced to placate investors, customers, and the Trump administration.
