U.S. companies have ramped up their stock buyback programs to unprecedented levels in 2025, with buybacks already reaching $983.6 billion, potentially surpassing $1 trillion by year-end. Tech giants like Apple and Alphabet lead the charge, pledging buybacks of $100 billion and $70 billion respectively.
While these moves are bolstering earnings per share and investor returns, critics warn they may starve the economy of capital needed for long-term growth and innovation. The trend reflects strong corporate earnings but raises fears of overvalued markets and reduced investment.
In the South Asian context, corporate governance experts are watching closely—especially in India and Bangladesh—where similar buyback policies risk accelerating wealth inequality and undermining productive capital allocation.