May signal plans for positive news or spin

(Updated with official Apple stream link) Financial firm Goldman Sachs has made a last-minute change to when Apple CEO Tim Cook will speak at its technology conference tomorrow. Cook is now scheduled to present at 10:15AM Eastern, instead of a previous 4:15PM time. No reason for the change has been announced, but if it isn't just a matter of practicality it could signal that Cook intends to make more positive comments.

Under the previous time Cook's speech would've come at the end of Tuesday stock trading in the US, minimizing damage from any negative reactions. Going on in the morning may mean that Cook wants his comments to have an impact, especially in the light of the steep plunge in Apple's share price since late 2012. Having peaked around $705, Apple shares are now worth about $480 each.

Cook is unlikely to make any major announcements tomorrow, but could try to reassure investors that the company is in a solid financial position. After Apple's last quarterly results, some investors were disappointed that certain expectations hadn't been met, and that the company is switching to a new, more realistic approach to guidance.

Update: Apple has posted a page on its investor website where people will be able to listen to Cook speak live.

by MacNN Staff