$Apple(AAPL)$ While others rush to build ever-larger models and burn through capital, Apple seems to be quietly engineering what could be the most profitable position in the entire AI ecosystem. The company's measured strategy, which many analysts initially viewed as defensive, is coming into sharper focus now. It looks far more aggressive upon closer inspection. Apple isn't trying to win the model-training arms race. Instead, it's methodically building ownership over the distribution layer that every AI company needs to reach consumers. This changes the investment thesis significantly. Apple can leverage its massive installed base as a high-margin revenue engine, potentially without shouldering the same crushi
$Apple(AAPL)$ The options activity on $NVIDIA(NVDA)$ is intense, with traders piling into short-term $330 weeklies and October $360 calls. It looks like they're riding the AI wave hard rather than backing off after that recent 5% move. There was some serious action with aggressive ask-side sweeps on those July $330 calls. This could lead to some sharp moves near the $330 to $335 area in the near term. October $360 calls are also dominating, with trades way above open interest. It seems institutions still see upside potential into the fourth quarter, so $360 is a level to watch for swing targets. On the positive side, with China clearing Apple Intelligence, the broader AI rollout is set. However
$Apple(AAPL)$ The recent news should allow them to raise guidance strongly. China is a massive part of their business, aside from the AI/HPC news. It's more than likely memory chips for that market, and so on. From where I stand, there's a chance for 375 to 400 in the weeks after earnings.
$BlackBerry(BB)$ According to The Information, Apple's in-house M2 Ultra chips have reportedly fallen short for advanced AI workloads, which is forcing the company to rely on Nvidia for now. $Apple(AAPL)$
$Microsoft(MSFT)$ It's worth noting that Xbox is redesigning its video game division. While there are significant personnel cuts, this move seems like a step in the right direction after years of strong competition from PlayStation. The 2026-2027 period could mark a new generation for video games, with Microsoft potentially developing a hybrid PC/console system that could significantly challenge Sony. It's a factor to consider beyond just the AI narrative.
$Apple(AAPL)$ 290CStill up +256% on the live book, after peaking at +370%. The June CPI came in cooler at -0.4% month-over-month and 3.5% year-over-year, with core flat, and tech led the way higher. However, yields firmed up into the release, and the overall tape turned defensive going into the close. I held all three sessions today with zero new adds—chasing a green screen into overhead supply is a good way to get trapped. $Goldman Sachs(GS)$ $1050 calls are up +96% after the banks caught the earnings bid, $KraneShares CSI China Internet ETF(KWEB)$ is up +36%, and $Nu Holdings Ltd.(NU)$ is up +31%. PP
$Apple(AAPL)$ Citi just raised its price target on Apple to $365 from $315, maintaining a Buy rating. The firm's constructive on the shares heading into earnings. They note the company should keep gaining market share even as the devices market slows, and they cite higher margin expectations after recent price increases.
Satya Nadella made an interesting point about $Microsoft(MSFT)$ , discussing a "reverse information paradox." He notes that while companies pay for AI services, they might inadvertently share their proprietary knowledge in the process. His argument is that hyperscalers should focus on protecting that feedback loop rather than exploiting it. It's a perspective worth watching.
$Microsoft(MSFT)$ I think a 5% gain for MSFT by year-end is highly likely. Even with the broader market's volatility, Microsoft feels like a safe haven. The chance for stronger returns there seems better than what you'd typically get from a long-term Treasury bond ETF.
$Apple(AAPL)$ Some people just drew some Fibonacci lines and called it a day. Others have been posting blood emojis multiple times since the market opened, thinking they had it all figured out. This is all happening while the stock bounced off the $310 level twice, and on about half its normal volume. Meanwhile, most seem to have missed the actual tape: a 3,506 contract put sell at the $310 strike and an 8,846 contract call buy at the $320 strike, both expiring this Friday. Someone put nearly $10 million on AAPL closing above $320 in a few days. I think there's a chance we could see $317 or higher by Friday.