Thursday, January 21, 2021

Fiscal 1Q 2021 Final Estimates


As of today's close of $136.87, AAPL is trading at a 30.2x multiple on my NTM EPS estimate (29.4x when excluding NTM net cash and dividends).

I've extended the model projection a few more years into the future, and what came out is rather remarkable, though not surprising: a new virtuous cycle of self-reinforcing growth has ensued for Apple. Starting NTM due to easy iPhone comps and resilient "work/learn from home" trends, followed over next 2-3 years by 5G and Apple Silicon adoption, further compounding even longer term into all lines due to ecosystem synergies (my so called "loopy" modeling). And all that is even before considering potentially huge initiatives in new devices such as tags and glasses, or new services tackling transportation and health.

Bear in mind I could be wrong, overly optimistic about iPhone in particular, which if instead stagnates or keeps declining from here, as it has the last 5y amid declining smartphone and PC markets (yet there was a pandemic last year and tariff wars the prior two), it would likely throw a wrench in the cycle's gears. However, I sense the next 5 years won't be as tough as the last. Granted there might be increased regulation, government intervention, and higher taxes, but I think none of it will amount to much in the end. So, on with my rosy picture.