1. Examine the account “Short-term marketable securities” in the consolidated
balance sheets, as well as related information in Note 2 to the Consolidated
Financial Statements for Apple Inc. (See the section for “Cash, Cash Equivalents
and Marketable Securities.”)
a. What does this account consist of?
b. Why do you think the company has made these investments?
c. What percentage change has occurred in Short-term marketable securities from
September 28, 2013, to September 27, 2014? What management business
strategy might this reveal?
d. Using the financial statement Note 1 for reference, explain how Apple Inc.,
accounts for marketable securities.
e. Has the company profited from holding its portfolio of marketable securities
during the year ended September 27, 2014? How do you know?
2. Using the Revenue Recognition section of Note 1 as a reference, describe how
Apple Inc., recognizes revenue. From what types of activities does Apple earn its
revenue?
3. The third account listed on Apple’s Consolidated Balance Sheet is called
“Accounts receivable, less allowances.” To what does the “allowances” refer?
4. Refer to the Accounts Receivable section of Note 2. What kinds of accounts
receivable are included in Apple Inc.’s receivables?
5. How much is the allowance for doubtful accounts in 2014 and 2013?
6. Calculate the current ratio, quick (acid-test) ratio, and net working capital for
Apple Inc., for 2014 and 2013. Evaluate Apple Inc.’s liquidity trend over the two
years. What other information might be helpful in evaluating these statistics?