Recession Takes a Bite Out of Apple Mac Sales

By Paul Carton and Jim Woods

Everyone knows consumers have ratcheted down their spending, but just how much is the negative purchasing environment affecting consumer PC sales?

According to our latest ChangeWave consumer survey, things are bad. And despite the accolades greeting Apple's (AAPL) recent earnings announcement, the survey shows the continued economic downturn will hit the California manufacturer especially hard this quarter.

Keep reading to learn what's in store for Apple.

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Hot Tickets From the Alliance

Each week Alliance members submit "Hot Tickets" as a way of presenting new observations and ideas on investable opportunities to ChangeWave.

* Note: These Hot Tickets are for informational purposes only. They do not represent recommendations from ChangeWave.

(1) Unified Computing

RCE12698 writes: "Cisco (CSCO) is set to enter the server business using VMware (VMW) ESX virtualization software. The goal of Cisco's 'unified computing' solution is to virtualize the network, storage and servers. By unifying everything around Ethernet, this could drive the growth of virtualization in data centers and help deploy cloud computing quicker."

(2) Getting Movies From a Box

AZS0989 writes: "I have been noticing Redbox kiosks in several locations and they seem to be quite popular with customers. These video dispensing machines are in popular locations such as Walgreen (WAG) and McDonald's (MCD) -- with DVD rentals for only a buck a movie. Owned by Coinstar (CSTR), it will be interesting to monitor the expansion of these kiosks, as they fit quite well with the idea of providing entertainment while minimizing costs. It may even give Netflix (NFLX) a bit of competition."

(3) More on the Housing Market

DAR02783 writes: "I've been reading some hype about big increases in loan applications as if to say things are looking up. As a real estate appraiser, here are some facts showing that the economy is not looking any better. Applications are way up, the highest since the boom in 2003, but only about 30% of borrowers can qualify for a loan. And if they do quality, it is not for the lowest rate.

"A vast majority of borrowers have FICO scores under 700, and almost all loans require private mortgage insurance (PMI) at an additional cost. A minimum FICO score of around 720 and a 20% down payment are required for the best deals. FHA loans offer better deals for people with less than 20% down, and they account for 20% of existing mortgages -- up from 3% in 2006."

(4) Braving the Snow for a Good Steak

ALL09814 writes: "Even in these recessionary times, Logan's Roadhouse is full every time I go -- even in snow storms. It has a unique, rustic decor with excellent service and food. The menu includes terrific salmon, steak, imaginative side dishes and excellent deserts -- all at reasonable prices. Plus, the manager checks on everyone to ensure they are happy. I believe this place should survive the downturn."

How to Cure Your Arthritis Permanently

What if people with arthritis were able to grow cartilage so fast that they could completely cure their arthritis in just a few weeks? What if people with osteoporosis were able to re-grow new bone faster than the old bone broke down? What if people with macular degeneration could regenerate their cells and restore their vision to what it was years ago? And what if people with clogged arteries could not only unclog their blood vessels but could also restore them so that they were as clear and as smooth as a baby's?

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