Apple’s Asian partners and rivals eye Jobs’ health
As Apple’s legendary boss Steve Jobs goes on another medical leave of absence, analysts say his company’s myriad Asian partners could suffer — but rivals such as Samsung and Sony might cash in.
Jobs, who is 55 and underwent surgery for pancreatic cancer in 2004 and a liver transplant in 2009, said he would continue as chief executive “and be involved in major strategic decisions for the company”.
Apple’s fortunes have been uniquely linked to Jobs, who took the then flagging company in 1997 and transformed it with the introduction of innovative and wildly successful products such as the iPod, iPhone and iPad.
But in Asia, home to many of Apple’s major rivals and where the firm’s products are actually made, analysts highlighted how uncertain its future would be without the talismanic innovator at the helm.
Any long-term problem would see companies such as Japan’s Sony begin to recover ground lost to the US giant.
“I’d say that Sony can take the initiative to make the next strategic step,” said Hiroshi Sakai, an analyst at SMBC Friend Securities. “As bad as that sounds.”
And Alex Huang, an analyst at Mega International Investment Services in Taiwan, said: “I think the impact would be much more considerable if he were to take a long leave, as Apple’s future depends on him.”
We wish Steve Jobs the best and pray that he returns as soon as possible! Again, never underestimate Apple and Steve Jobs!
Capitalism and healthy competition is great but no doubt it is a blood bath out there! You always have to watch your back especially when you are in the lead because there is always someone looking to take your place!
And so the battles begin . . .