1 Apple retains its status as the world's most valuable company ($725bn) increasing its market capitalisation by 54% (+$256bn) compared to last year. 2  The software giant is now almost twice as big as the second largest company (Google $375bn) and almost 10 times larger than the smallest in the Top 100.
Definition of stubble for English Language Learners : short hairs growing from the face of a man who has not shaved very recently : the short ends of crops left in the ground after the crops have been cut down
brace. 1. something that holds parts together or in place, as a clasp or clamp. 2. anything that imparts rigidity or steadiness. 3. a device for holding and turning a bit for boring or drilling; bitstock.4. a piece of timber, metal, etc., for supporting or positioning another part of a framework.. (Building) a structural member, such as a beam or prop, used to stiffen a framework. 4. (Instruments) a sliding loop, usually of leather, attached to the cords of a drum: used to change its tension. 5. a pair; two, esp of game birds: a brace of partridges.