In: Economics
QUESTION 1: According to Interbrand’s analysis, Apple’s brand is valued at more than $170 billion, while Google in second place is valued at $120 billion and Coca-Cola in third is at $78 billion (2015). Do you agree that Apple should be so far ahead of its nearest brand competition? What about Samsung, which is larger in size (Samsung is valued at $45 billion)?
QUESTION 2: With Steve Jobs, Apple’s legendary founder and CEO, passing away in 2011, what can we expect from Apple in the future? Will it be as innovative? Will it maintain brand value leadership? Will it run the top global supply chain in the world?
QUESTION 3: Apple products have usually been priced above their competition and sold for their value, intrigue, and market leadership. Some would say Samsung is catching up on many of these fronts and even passing Apple perhaps. Do you think Apple can charge a price premium for its products much longer?
QUESTION 4: Apple’s global supply chains make its business thrive. There is a secrecy among suppliers, superior quality standards by every party involved in Apple’s supply chains, and a total value focus that ultimately makes the customers happy. Is this a sustainable business model for its global supply chains?