Merrill Lynch to Apple investors: Sell - Tech News - CNET.com

"A leading financial firm late Monday urged investors to sell their shares in Apple Computer, just as the company's premier trade show and rally of the faithful was getting under way.

Merrill Lynch analyst Michael Hillmeyer said he was "reinstating coverage with a sell opinion." He also rated Apple's stock volatility risk as high.

In early trading Tuesday, Apple hardly missed a beat, off just 7 cents to $14.83.

The stock recommendation came on the eve of the Macworld Expo in San Francisco, where Apple CEO Steve Jobs is expected to announce a new portable digital device. But rumors of a new product, which could bolster Apple's bid to position the Mac as hub for connecting digital devices, may not be enough to turn the tide on sagging sales."