An Apple A Day

It Works & So Does Having Patience

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away" is a common 19th century “English-language” proverb advocating for the consumption of apples,. The basic understanding was that "if one eats “healthful” foods, one will remain in “good health” and will not need to see the doctor often." Makes a lot of sense, eh? A variant, "eat an apple on going to bed, and you'll keep the doctor from earning his bread" was recorded as a saying in 1866. The modern phrasing began at the end of the 19th century, with early examples found in print around 1887.

I embarked on my relationship with Apple at the turn if this century. In 2005, when a new software became available, through the VMWare beta program I made the switch from DOS and adopted the OS platform. I’ve never looked back, adopting every Apple product from its iPhone to the iWatch. I’m happy here and after almost 20 years, this is where I’m staying.

Early this year, after being a loyal owner of its stock I sold all of the shares owned in the managed Roth IRA accounts. I took it a step further and shorted the stock above $190 a share. I’ve covered that position and now, like many, I’m sitting on the sideline.

Patience Is A Virtue

Like many of the famous sayings we recite today, the original author of "patience is a virtue" is hard to determine. Some date it back to Cato to the Elder in the 3rd or 4th century. Others attribute it to “The Canterbury Tales”, written during the 14th century. Since literature is quite “fluid” and shared by many, writers often will observe similar concepts and themes. It can be difficult to attribute commonly accepted thoughts or reflections to one individual.

Patience is more than just a virtue; it's a profound emotional skill that can ‘uniquely’ shape our lives. At its core, patience involves the ability to tolerate delay, adversity or frustration without becoming agitated or anxious. It's about maintaining ‘composure’ and “perspective” in the face of challenges, setbacks or when waiting for something that’s desired.

One significant aspect of patience is its role in fostering resilience. Life is chock full of unexpected twists and turns, and things don't always go according to plan. Patience allows us to navigate these moments with grace and perseverance. Instead of reacting impulsively or giving in to basic frustration, patience enables us to pause, assess the situation and respond in a measured and thoughtful manner.

Moreover, patience is essential for personal growth and achievement especially when it comes to investing and trading. Worthwhile endeavors will require time, effort and persistence. Without patience, we may become discouraged and give up prematurely. But by cultivating it, we can stay the course, trusting that our efforts will eventually bear fruit.

Ultimately, patience is not merely about waiting passively; it's about actively choosing how we respond to all of life's uncertainties and adversities. By embracing patience as an “emotion”, we cultivate overall resilience, foster growth, nurture relationships and contribute to a more compassionate and understanding world.

What Apple’s Earnings Tell Us

Lower the expectation then beat the reduced estimates. Market manipulation lives on in today’s environment thanks to “big boy” informational coordination. Get used to it as it’s not going to change anytime soon as exhibited by Apple.

Apple announced the ‘largest’ ever $110 billion share buyback as its iPhone sales fell 10%. Apple barely beat its reduced earnings and revenue estimates. As Tim Cook has done for quite some time no formal guidance was provided other than sales growing in the “low single digits” into the next quarter. Doesn’t look too good for its latest new “Vision Pro” virtual reality headset either but they’re just scratching the surface there.

The “street” initially loved the numbers. Post a 2.2% increase during market hours, the stock is up over 7% in the aftermarket. It’s not easy to take express contrary thoughts on Apple or Boeing, for that matter, but consistent with prior remarks, I’m sitting on my hands waiting for an opportunity to enter on the long side once again. When I do I’ll let you know.

I’ve often stated that “mortality sucks”. Being a realist it’s easy to prove. My better half had cataract surgery this morning. Everything went well but it’s been a long day. Good thing tomorrow is Friday but remember, Mother’s Day is next Sunday. I always tell her kids to start making plans earlier than next Friday. I’ll tell you to do the same thing as you only get one “Mom”. I was blessed with a great “Mom” and “Dad”. I hope both of yours are still around so they can enjoy your successes.

Since today’s theme centers around “Apple” it is only appropriate to revisit ‘Beatles’ fame with their hit song “Don’t Let Me Down”. Taped in January of 1969, released to the general public in 1970, it effectively ended what we know as The Beatles today. I see a correlation to what’s transpiring in the markets. Jerome Powell has been patient but the administration, especially the one that’s now in power, wants, no it demands a lowering of rates so the “Democrats” can play it up politically and maintain its power. In 1970, Yoko Ono essentially did the same thing with John Lennon and The Beatles. The differences between their origin and future paths required change. The same path is apparent in today’s world. It will be interesting to evaluate its outcome.