Apple announces 2-for-1 stock split (UPDATE)

Today, Apple computer has announced that its board of directors have approved a 2-for-1 stock split that will take effect on February the 28th. Its common stock of 900 million shares will double to 1.8 billion shares. Every holder will see his number of owned shares doubled while the value of every Apple's share will be divided by two.

Apple's stock price (AAPL) has seen a big rally during 2004 and continues this year. This is due to the excellent financial situation of Apple while its successful iPod and announcements made during MacWorld Expo give a good outlook to the company.

UPDATE: Apple's stock price has closed at $81.21, up 3.64% and has reached $81.39 during after-hours trading.