#United States #New York #Apple #Fortune #Korn Ferry

Apple Dominates Fortune's 2026 Most Admired Companies List

In a remarkable show of consistency, Apple retains its position at the top of the Fortune World's Most Admired Companies (WMAC) list for an impressive 19th year in a row. This accolade, revealed in a partnership with the global consulting firm Korn Ferry, highlights Apple's unwavering reputation among industry leaders.

The WMAC list is compiled based on a comprehensive survey that gathers insights from over 3,000 executives and analysts, shedding light on the corporate giants that excel not just in financial performance, but also in leadership, innovation, and global outreach. This year, Apple earned high marks despite some critiques regarding its progress in artificial intelligence (AI).

The Top Five: Stability Amidst Change

Closely following Apple in the WMAC's top five are Microsoft, Amazon, NVIDIA, and JPMorgan Chase. These organizations have been recognized for their financial stability, innovative capabilities, and respected leadership, reflecting a solidified standing in a rapidly evolving business environment. The presence of NVIDIA, a prominent player in the GPU sector, signifies the growing importance of AI in shaping corporate reputations. It ranked fourth, showing a notable rise, while Microsoft and Amazon continue to hold strong positions, indicative of their adaptable business models.

This year, the WMAC list also features some noteworthy newcomers. Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) and Workday made their entries at positions 48 and 49, respectively, both thanks to their advancements in AI. The list reflects a changing landscape, where companies that successfully harness technology gain a competitive edge.

Shift in Rankings: Who's Out?

The 2026 edition of the WMAC has seen significant shifts, as some familiar names, such as Target, PepsiCo, and Novo Nordisk, have dropped out of the top 50. Target, which was once placed 27th, and PepsiCo at 44th, are particularly notable exits. This change underscores the dynamic nature of corporate reputation, affected by factors such as market trends and consumer perceptions.

In total, the WMAC includes 324 companies spanning 22 countries, with a significant majority based in the United States. This diverse representation is designed to give a holistic view of what it means to be admired in the global business arena.

Notable Wins and Recognition

Some enterprises have emerged victorious in their categories this year. Whirlpool, for instance, has claimed the top spot in home appliances for the first time since 2018. Similarly, MetLife returned to the forefront, succeeding in the life and health insurance sector after six years.

The 2026 WMAC list also highlights the increasing representation of women leaders, featuring 35 companies led by female executives—10% of the total. This is a commendable achievement in a field traditionally dominated by male leadership. Notable figures on the list include Julie Sweet (Accenture), Jane Fraser (Citigroup), and Lisa Su (AMD), who are also recognized as some of the most powerful women in business by Fortune.

Insights from the Leaders

In discussing the findings, Alyson Shontell, editor-in-chief of Fortune, expressed pride in celebrating companies that embody true innovation and resilience. She noted, “In an era where rapid advancements like AI are reshaping entire industries, these organizations show remarkable ability to adapt and lead forward.”

Mark Royal of Korn Ferry emphasized that top companies demonstrate resilience not merely as a reaction, but as a design principle. The longevity of their success hinges on maintaining trust and credibility, critical in navigating constant industry disruptions.

Global Leadership Dinner

To honor the achievements listed in WMAC, Fortune will host an exclusive Global Leadership Dinner during the World Economic Forum in Davos. This event brings together influential leaders to discuss trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the future of business. Among the key speakers will be thought leaders from various sectors, providing invaluable insights into the evolving corporate landscape.

In conclusion, the Fortune 2026 World's Most Admired Companies list not only highlights the champions of corporate reputation but also paves the way for future discussions on business excellence and leadership. The results will be featured in the February/March 2026 edition of Fortune magazine, with broader insights available online.

Stay tuned for more coverage as Fortune delves deeper into the implications of this list and what it means for leaders and organizations globally.