When is the right (and wrong) time to buy Apple stock?

Apple's current stock price probably places it off limits to a lot of investors. But those who can cough up the cash can do well investing before a new product cycle, according to Sanford C. Bernstein.

The investment firm's latest research found that Apple's stock historically outperforms in the eight weeks before a new product is announced.

Apple shares have tended to rise in short spurts over the past couple of years. As such, Bernstein Research analyst Toni Sacconaghi, Jr still advises investors to hold a long term position rather than try to time the market. But for those eager to dive in, the analyst sees the "potential for near-term outperformance." Why now?

Apple watchers are watching September 12 as the next big announcement date. The latest reports and rumors say that Apple will hold one of its launch events that day to unveil not just the next iPhone but a new iPad Mini. Many also expect the company to update its iPod lineup and reveal more details about its Apple TV.

The stock has already outperformed over the last three weeks aft... [Read more]