If you think 2011 was a wild year for technology, just wait until you see what 2012 has in store for you. Here are three tech trends that will undoubtedly grow in relevance -- and investor profitability -- in the year ahead.
Google co-founder Larry Page is set to take over as the search giant's new CEO on Monday. But some worry he may not have the management skills to steer the Internet's most powerful company. After all, early investors made him step down as Google's first CEO in 2001. Will he fare better the second time around?
The short interest in some major technology stocks has increased sharply in recent weeks. The short sellers' view may make sense since these companies have helped drive the NASDAQ recovery.
The economy has had more than its share of trouble lately: Japan's earthquake comes on top of rising oil and food prices, political turmoil in the Middle East and a crop of government austerity measures. But investing opportunities lie hidden behind the bad news.
Tech stocks rose after Intel hiked its dividend and said it would buy back more of its stock. And materials companies jumped after a report showed economists are more positive about growth and the job market than at any time since the Great Recession started.
Twice before, the iconic CEO had to leave the company in others' hands, and if that history is any guide, Apple investors may see the stock price do well once again in his absence -- providing they can handle the pain of the drop long enough to enjoy the recovery.
Even after a round of acquisitions in 2010, some big tech companies are still rolling in cash -- and 2011 looks like another promising year for tech mergers. Here's columnist Peter Cohan's list of top tech acquisition targets for 2011.
Under the agreement, Dell will pay Compellent investors $27.75 a share in cash. Problem is those investors had bid up the stock to above $34 in anticipation of a much a better offer. If they ultimately reject Dell's deal, it'll be another black eye for the computing giant.
The newly public company, which makes digital whiteboards for schools and business, started out with a hot IPO but quickly ran afoul of investors' expectations. But several analysts now see its beaten-down stock as a good opportunity.
As 2010 draws to a close, it looks like 2011 is likely to be another wild year for the stock market. Fear not: Here are some tips from T. Rowe Price portfolio managers on how careful investors can take advantage of drops and rebounds in the coming year.
