Required:
1) Perform horizontal financial analysis; Using at least 5 financial ratios, including both Balance Sheet and Income Statement ratios, discuss the financial performance of Apple Inc. from 2009, 2010, and 2011. Choose the ratios that you think are the most useful for analyzing Apple Inc., making sure to address profitability, solvency, and liquidity. You must interpret the ratios within your discussion.
2) Conclude on whether you would invest today in Apple Inc. and provide rationale as to why or why not. Discuss at least 3 points which support your conclusion, and 1 of these points must relate to a competitor's financial performance (ie: Samsung, RIM, etc...). These points can be either quantitative or qualitative but must be supported by evidence, so make sure to provide copies of materials/articles referenced. Google finance website is a useful tool.