Apple's $ 51 Billion Pile of Cash

With $ 51 billion of cash and investments on Apple's (AAPL) balance sheet, and an additional $ 4-5 billion/quarter showing up each quarter, there's plenty of speculation on how that growing pile of cash will be used. Here's what Steve Jobs said on the earnings conference call that only fueled that speculation:

"We strongly believe one or more strategic opportunities will come along we're in a unique position to take advantage of,"
and

"We don't let the cash burn a hole in the pocket or make stupid acquisitions. We'd like to continue to keep our powder dry because we think there are one or more strategic opportunities in the future."

Some examples of the recent speculation:

• Will Apple Buy Facebook?

• Speculation of Apple Acquisition Drives Sony Stock Price

• 7 Reasons for Apple to Acquire Adobe

• Apple May Acquire Sony, Adobe, or Disney

• Will Apple Acquire a Big Name?

• Apple to Buy Netflix?

I doubt that most or any of these larger acquisitions are wise or even necessary. It will be very interesting to watch if all that capital can be put to use productively in the coming years.

A nice problem.

Adam

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