In September 2008, after announcing record year-end results, Steve Jobs, Apple Inc.'s CEO, commented, "We don't yet know how this economic downturn will affect Apple. But we're armed with the strongest product line inour history, the most talented employees and the best customers in our industry. And $25 billion of cash safely in thebank with zero debt. Then, in January 2009, in the midst of the economic downturn that had seen most of its competitors reporting reduced results, Apple reported one of its best quarters, surpassing $10 billion in quarterly revenue for the first time in its history (see Exhibits 1 and2