Apple passes Coke as world’s most valuable brand, Google is second

Tech giant Apple has ended Coca-Cola’s 13-year run as the world’s most valuable brand.

Google  also leapfrogged Coke, moving into second place on Interbrand’s yearly Best Global Brands list.

The top ten constituded a majority of tech giants with IBM, Microsoft, Samsung and Intel being among.

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Interbrand,  consults with companies about their public image, compiles its list based on financial performance of the company, the role the brand plays in influencing consumers, and how secure the brand’s top money-making products are in their field.

Apple’s brand is estimated to be worth $98.3 billion, a 28% increase over 2012, when it was No. 2 on the list. Coca-Cola’s value also rose, but by only 2%, to $79.2 billion. Much of Apple’s boost can probably be attributed to its growing presence in China, where iPhones and other Apple devices are increasingly popular.

Apple and Google were just two of many tech companies among the list’s fastest-rising brands. Facebook gained 43% to hit No. 52, making it the only social-media site on the list. Amazon jumped 27% to No. 19. Last year Google was fourth on the list.

This year, Apple was surpassed by Samsung in the total number of smartphones sold worldwide, and some in the tech community knocked the company for what they perceived as a lack of innovation compared to its competitors.

Credit: CNN