Demand to borrow shares in tech giant Apple has almost doubled since the end of March.

Short-selling data specialist FIS Astec Analytics says the borrow volume for the iPhone marker’s stock has risen by nearly 50%.

The stats suggest short-sellers, often hedge funds, are upping their bets against the world's largest tech company by borrowing Apple shares, selling them and hoping to buy back at a lower price.

It comes as billionaire investor Carl Icahn recently sold his stake in Apple, citing concerns about China’s attitude to the company.

On Wednesday Apple lost a battle for the use of the "iPhone" trademark on leather goods in China after a Beijing court ruled against the firm.

Now down 27% over the last 12 months, Apple is one of the worst performing securities on the Dow Jones Index.

"Apple has long been a high performing security, but as the world reaches “peak smartphone,” Apple and other providers have suffered,” FIS Astec Analytics said in a newsletter.

“Short interest has yet to make a real impact, but more may be seen as the company considers changing its boom and bust sales style to an annuity membership style model.”