Topic: How To Invest

Pat: Would you please let me know what you think of Qualcomm Inc.? Thank you.

Article Excerpt

Qualcomm Inc., $52.03, symbol QCOM on Nasdaq (Shares outstanding: 1.5 billion; Market cap: $78.1 billion; www.qualcomm.com) makes computer chips that are mainly used in cellphones and other mobile devices. The company owns the dominant wireless network standard in the U.S.—CDMA, or code division multiple access. But Qualcomm also makes chips that are widely used outside of North America. That technology is based on the GSM (global system for mobile communications) standard. Qualcomm is a “fabless” company; that is, it doesn’t own any chip fabrication factories. Instead, it designs its chips and relies on other companies to make them. That business model cuts the company’s capital spending needs, but adds to its risk, particularly if the suppliers deliver chips late or with defects. The company gets about 70% of its revenue by selling CDMA chips made by outside manufacturers. It gets a further 30% by licensing its technologies to cellphone makers. The company’s major customers include Samsung, LG Electronics and Motorola. Qualcomm…