ORGANIZATION
• Company Background & Current Stage in Growth Lifecycle
• Detailed Financial Information — Microeconomics
• Industry Landscape, Trends, and Competitors — Macroeconomics
• Recent Developments, Analyst Opinions, and/or Wall Street Consensus
• Recommendations
• Works Cited
ORGANIZATION & CONTENT
Paragraphs in all sections include:
• A focused topic sentence with an overview of the main idea for the entire paragraph and
its connection to thesis
• Approximately 15 sentences of supporting details which include quotes, facts, graphics or
expert opinions
• Writers’ insights and opinions are provided, which synthesize and analyze researched
quantitative, qualitative and responsive information, and connect to the thesis
• Points and material within each paragraph are logically organized. Consider time order,
cause and effect, reasons, a range of opinions, strengths vs. weaknesses, or distinct
categories of frameworks or sources.
Sample Solution
Company Background & Current Stage in Growth Lifecycle:
Apple Inc. is an American technology company that designs, develops and sells consumer electronics, computer software, and online services. It was founded by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne in 1976 (Apple). Apple has since grown to become one of the world’s largest companies with a market capitalization estimated at over $2 trillion USD as of 2021 (FinViz).
The company is currently in its late stage growth cycle as it continues to focus on product innovation while also expanding its customer base through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. Apple’s latest products such as the iPhone 12 have been highly successful helping them to post record results for the past quarter despite disruption from COVID-19(Apple).
Detailed Financial Information — Microeconomics:
According to Apple’s most recent financial report for 2020 Q4 ,the company reported revenue of $ 111.44 billion which represents a 3% year-over-year increase due mostly to strong demand for iPhones and other products.(Apple) . Gross margin also came in higher than expected at 40.1% due to price increases on some items(Apple) . Net income increased 7 % year-over-year with diluted earnings per share increasing 8% over the same period.(Apple)
Industry Landscape, Trends, Competitors:
The industry landscape is increasingly competitive as more players enter into the space; this includes not only traditional competitors such as Samsung but also tech giants like Google who are now offering their own mobile phones featuring advanced features such as 5G capabilities (Engadget). Moreover, emerging technologies like artificial intelligence offer both opportunities and threats; not just for Apple but all players across multiple industries (MIT Technology Review.). There has also been increased focus on environmental initiatives including reducing carbon emissions throughout supply chains which impacts how firms design their products (Climate Group ).
Recent Developments Analyst Opinions Wall Street Consensus : Recently analysts have issued generally positive reviews about Apples prospects although some caution about potential headwinds going forward ; this includes factors such economic uncertainties due to regulatory changes or heightened competition in certain markets(Seeking Alpha ) . The overall consensus however remains optimistic with many believing that stock prices will continue moving higher especially if Apples new subscription services gain traction amongst consumers( Seeking Alpha) .
Recommendations : For investors interested in gaining exposure to high growth companies ,Apples stock can still be considered a solid option given its strong fundamentals ,continued innovation efforts and attractive dividend yields.(Investor Place ) As far current valuation goes prices appear slightly pricey compared historical averages; any pullback could present attractive entry points hence waiting for better pricing may be prudent choice here.(InvestorPlace )
