Core Viewpoint - The focus is on Apple's upcoming earnings report, with high expectations set by the company itself regarding iPhone sales and overall financial performance [3][4]. Earnings Expectations - Apple is expected to report a record EPS of $2.65, up from $1.85 last quarter and $2.40 last year [3]. - Revenue expectations are set at $137.81 billion, reflecting an 11% year-over-year increase [4]. Market Reactions - The market has shown mixed reactions to recent earnings from other major tech companies, with Apple being the last of the "Mag 7" to report [1][2]. - Investors are particularly focused on iPhone sales performance, especially in China, where Apple faces competitive pressures [5]. Strategic Focus - Apple's services segment is anticipated to be a key stabilizer and margin driver, leveraging its large installed base [7]. - The company is expected to announce a formal partnership with Alphabet to integrate AI initiatives into its ecosystem [7][8]. Competitive Landscape - Analysts are concerned about memory chip shortages potentially impacting margins, which is a critical factor to monitor [8]. - The overall market is experiencing volatility, with shifts in investor sentiment affecting tech stocks [11][12].
iPhone Sales, Siri & Google Gemini: AAPL Earnings Preview & Options Trade