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Stock #5: Apple (AAPL)

During bear markets, some investors focus on the silliest things. In the case of Apple Inc. (AAPL), that focus has been on the health of fearless leader, Steve Jobs. Yes, Mr. Jobs is important to the success of the company, but to assume AAPL without Jobs will not be the same juggernaut is the ultimate in fearful thinking.

Even if AAPL hires a chimpanzee to run the company, its future for the next five to ten years is locked in given its current product lineup. There has been no recession when it comes to selling notebooks, iPods and now the iPhone. The markets for these products ensure growth for the foreseeable future with or without Jobs.

The bears have slashed more than $100 of market cap from this company despite its success. That is a mistake in my opinion. When the economy recovers, AAPL will be stronger, and the stock should be a core holding in any portfolio.