QCOM: Qualcomm Rallies on Earnings Momentum — But $75M Antitrust Settlement Still Echoes
Court: S.D. California
Case: 3:17-cv-00121
Qualcomm 
QCOM continues to gain attention with strong earnings, new institutional investment, and bullish analyst targets — yet the company is also finalizing a $75 million settlement stemming from a 2017 antitrust case.
📈 What We Know About Qualcomm’s Latest Moves
- Q2 revenue of $10.98B beat analyst expectations
- EPS of $2.85 vs. $2.82 forecast
- Whittier Trust boosted holdings by 13% in Q1
- Insider sales include CFO Akash Palkhiwala and exec Heather Ace
- Analysts maintain a mixed stance: 12 Buy, 16 Hold, 1 Sell
- Average price target: $186.39
- Recent stock price: $154.30
- Market cap: $169.42B
Despite a modest price dip in May, QCOM shares have rebounded thanks to consistent profitability and confidence in its wireless and AI chip roadmap.
🧾 But a $75M Settlement Still Casts a Legal Shadow
Qualcomm agreed to a $75 million cash settlement with investors over allegations of anticompetitive behavior and weak financial controls that surfaced in 2017.
📆 Timeline Overview
- Jan 17, 2017: FTC files antitrust complaint against Qualcomm
- Jan 18, 2017: Media reports surface on overcharging and licensing abuse
- Jan 19, 2017: QCOM drops 18.3%
- Jan 23, 2017: Investors sue Qualcomm over financial and competitive misconduct
💼 Allegations Include
- Overcharging for wireless chip licenses
- Refusing to sell chips to firms rejecting unfair terms
- Offering Apple exclusive rebates for loyalty
- Violating FRAND (Fair, Reasonable, and Non-Discriminatory) commitments
💰 Investor Update
- Settlement covers investor claims tied to the January 2017 drop
- Payouts expected 8–12 months after final court approval
👉 You can check more information about it and file for a payout HERE.
While Qualcomm solidifies its role in global 5G and AI markets, the fallout from its past licensing practices still lingers — reminding investors that legal risk can trail even the strongest performers.