Palm blows up

Why consensus was so high remains a mystery as it was clear from the moment the Pre was unveiled that the existing Palm line-up would stop selling.  This was likely the last near-term negative catalyst for the stock.  Short interest is an unhealthy and dangerous 40% of the outstanding shares.  The shares are a bet on the success or failure of the Pre now.  The smartphone space is very crowded and while the Pre is the most iPhone-y of the alternatives being offered, it’s certainly not a guaranteed success.  People who want an iPhone-like phone should get an iPhone, not a Pre.  Despite longer-term concerns, my guess is the move in the stock is higher later as stocks with 40% short interest tend to be covered on weakness and buyers of the stock have been betting on the Pre, not the legacy Palm business.