IMO, Vic is correct that its not in Apples best interests to blow away the estimates.
David,
This may not be true. First, it would be a graphic way to bury once and for all the stigma of being a dying company, especially if Jobs or Anderson can follow up in the briefing with a convincing argument that profits will continue in coming quarters. Second, it could very well focus a doubting market on Apple's products and actually spur greater sales, not to mention bring more software developers back into the fold.
I don't know yet where Jobs's vision is taking Apple. He may be redefining the company in ways that we can only imagine. In this respect, I doubt that he sees Apple as a niche player. That's an easy assumption for a battle-weary Apple investor to make. The G3 and G4 series are clearly superior to anything the Wintel environment offers, and Rhapsody may be as well. If a blow-out of the earnings forecast occurs, coupled with a reasonable scenario on why good profits may persist, these events may provide that critical mass to propel Apple into the next millennium, big time!
Just my two cents,
Sam |
