Thanks to strong demand for services and wearables and a “phenomenal” online sales period, Apple beat the oddsmakers with a better-than-expected March-quarter report on Thursday, despite challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic. But Apple stock dipped Friday amid a down market.
Patrick Seitz for Investor’s Business Daily:
The Cupertino, Calif.-based company mixed bad news with the good in its fiscal second-quarter report late Thursday. Leading the negative news was a 6.7% year-over-year drop in iPhone revenue as the coronavirus pandemic hit production and consumer demand for smartphones. Apple iPad and Mac computer sales also fell in the quarter.
On the positive side, Apple increased its cash dividend by 6% to 82 cents a share. The board of directors also authorized an increase of $50 billion to the existing share repurchase program, bringing the current stock buyback authorization to over $90 billion.
On the stock market today, Apple stock fell 1.6% to 289.07 as major indexes plunged. Earlier in the session, it was up as much as 1.8% to $299.
At least 10 Wall Street firms raised their price targets on Apple stock after the earnings report. However, three firms cut their price targets.
MacDailyNews Take: What freaked out some analysts was Apple not guiding for Q320, even though it couldn’t be more understandable.
Wish I had bought more when it was around $220, but even the best case there looks like I could expect a 30-40% return in the short term on a relatively modest investment, which isn’t a sure bet in the times we’re in. I think I’ll just sit on what I have for now.
Analysts seem so stupid. How can a company give guidance in such uncertain conditions. Do they simply want Apple to guess like a blind man throwing a dart at a bullseye. Much will depend upon when retail stores in various cities can be opened and whether the jobless situation will change. There are so many economical uncertainties that Apple has no control over and only a blind fool can’t see that much. Apple is still doing plenty for shareholders, so what are investors so upset about.
soon everything will be fine but yeah world economy crash will take some time
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The resilience of Apple stock is impressive, especially after their COVID-19-affected quarterly report. Despite the challenges, the stock remains in the buy zone, reflecting the confidence investors have in Apple’s long-term prospects. It’s a testament to the company’s ability to navigate uncertain times and maintain its position as a strong investment choice. Keep an eye on Apple as it continues to demonstrate its resilience and innovation in the market.