UBS and Gartner Trim Smartphone, PC Forecasts Amid Tariff Fears
Analysts at UBS and Gartner have slashed their growth forecasts for the global PC and smartphone markets due to increasing trade tariff pressures and macroeconomic uncertainties expected to affect consumer demand through 2026. In a recent report, they reduced their projections for PC shipments growth from 5% and 4% to a mere 2% for both 2025 and 2026, citing potential impacts from trade policies. Similarly, global smartphone shipment growth forecasts for 2025 have been downgraded from 2% to 1%.
The most pessimistic outlook is for the US market, which holds a significant share of global PC units and value. The expectation is that US demand could suffer a 1.1% decline in 2025, with only a slight recovery projected for the following year.
Key Points
- UBS and Gartner have revised global PC shipment growth forecasts down to 2% for 2025 and 2026.
- Smartphone shipment growth forecast decreased from 2% to 1% for 2025.
- The US market, accounting for a significant portion of global PC sales, is expected to face a decline in demand.
- Factors such as trade policies and macroeconomic conditions are contributing to these negative forecasts.
- Expectations for a modest recovery in the US market in 2026 with only a 0.8% increase.
Why should I read this?
If you’ve any interest in the tech market, this article breaks down crucial shifts in forecasts that could affect pricing, availability, and development priorities. It’s a must-read to stay ahead of the curve as these changes may influence your buying decisions or investments in the gadget space. Plus, who doesn’t want to be the one in the room who knows about the latest industry trends?