Monday
The new trading week kicks off with computer-accessory giant Logitech (NASDAQ:LOGI). There was a time when the market clamored for the company's keyboards, webcams, mice, and other input devices. Now that computer sales have stalled, Logitech is feeling the pinch.
Earlier this month, Logitech announced that it would be slashing 15% of its global workforce. It also withdrew its near-term guidance. The market is too choppy to see too far out, so don't expect a heaping bowlful of optimism with the company's conference call.
Tuesday
Financial-services giant Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) was supposed to post its results on Tuesday, but the banking bellwether moved up its report so it could publicly slash its dividend and continue with its panhandling ways. That still leaves us with other market movers like IBM (NYSE:IBM) and Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) checking in. IBM is a great proxy for corporate spending, while the "No More Tears" company will hopefully not do a lot of crying as it discusses the state of consumer staples and pharmaceuticals.
The one thing to keep in mind for both companies: Analysts expect them to post higher earnings on Tuesday. Good luck with that.
Wednesday
Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) steps up to the earnings stage, this time without Steve Jobs at the helm. All eyes will be on interim CEO Tim Cook as he goes over what could be a tricky report. The company's momentum on iPods and computers has been waning lately, and the iPhone now has some serious smartphone competition. The weight of the world must be on Cook's shoulders; he's got to prove to the investing community that Apple can get along fine in the near term without Jobs.
Thursday
Save us, Google (NASDAQ:GOOG)! The search-engine giant reports on Thursday. Wall Street sees profits at the Big G growing 12% during the fourth quarter. It's a far cry from the heady growth that Google investors are used to, but proving that it can grow even in this lousy advertising environment would be a victory for the company in and of itself.
Friday
You can go hog wild on Friday with Harley Davidson (NYSE:HOG), but don't get too excited. Analysts see the motorcycle maker posting its third consecutive quarter of lower earnings. Big-ticket items -- no matter how cool they are -- are hard sells these days.
Until next week, I remain,
Rick Munarriz
