Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Apple Inc.: AAPL Tests Virtual Reality Waters With View-Master

It's late to the game, but can AAPL repeat history in the virtual reality market?

Earlier this month, it was reported that Apple Inc. (AAPL) is now selling the View-Master virtual reality headset, a modern-day iteration of the clunky reddish-orange goggles that amazed us as kids. The difference, though, is that instead of sticking a cardboard circle into the front, you’d stick in your iPhone.

The View-Master is the Apple store’s first retail virtual reality offering. However, the View-Master has been available as a sturdy upgrade to Alphabet Inc’s (GOOGL, GOOG) Google Cardboard virtual reality headset since February of last year when it was revived through a partnership with Mattel, Inc. (MAT) — the company responsible for developing the original View-Master in 1939.

Some investors have been wondering, though, if AAPL has what it takes to dominate the virtual reality marketplace against competitors such as Facebook Inc (FB), Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) and Samsung (SSNLF), which are well ahead of Apple in the race to the top of the VR mountain.

Tuesday, February 02, 2016

Yelp Inc (YELP) Stock’s Only Value: Takeover Target

YELP shares only seem to rise when takeover rumors surface

Yelp Inc (YELP) stock has dropped more than 60% over the past year, which includes a 30%-plus hammering so far in this young 2016. Opinions on Wall Street about Yelp stock run the gamut from conservative to downright ridiculous, and a number of analysts have revised or reaffirmed their ratings and price targets in the wake of this year’s selloff.

Considering the abysmal performance history of Yelp stock alongside a number of other challenges — which include excessive complaints regarding unfair and inaccurate business ratings, and steep competition from tech behemoths such as Facebook Inc (FB) and Alphabet Inc’s (GOOGL, GOOG) Google Maps — the Yelp stock landslide isn’t likely to end anytime soon.