Unimaginable

It takes a great deal for one’s mind to begin to comprehend a trillion. The number is so large it is unimaginable. The figure belongs to government debt or to data stored on computers. The news that Apple is now valued at a trillion dollars is mind-boggling. Its size and wealth are beyond any other corporation in US and probably, world history. The company needs to understand, however, that its exalted position is tenuous. It can fall back at any time should it misstep in product innovation and marketing. Previous behemoths in technology, such as IBM and Hewlett Packard, are still growing and profitable but nowhere near Apple’s multiple. Apple will hit a maturity at some point when its technology is ubiquitous and widely imitated. It will need to find another breakout product and that will be difficult. Meanwhile, competitors will keep nipping at its lead in a chance that they can bring the company down. Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown.