Silicon Alley Insider reports on new data from market research firm NPD relayed by Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster showing strong Mac and iPod sales for Apple's March quarter so far, well ahead of most analysts' expectations. NPD's numbers show Mac sales currently up 36% year-over-year, double that of analysts' consensus expectations. Similarly, NPD is seeing 5% growth in iPod sales compared to the March quarter of 2009, compared to expectations of a 17% decline. According to Munster:
"While it is way too early to make a call on the quarter, we believe the Jan. NPD suggests the quarter is tracking ahead of Street consensus."
Munster's predictions for the overall quarter are slightly above consensus, seeing 2.6-2.8 million Mac sales for 18-26% year-over-year growth and 9-10 million iPod sales for a decline of between 9% and 17% over the same quarter last year.
Apple last quarter reported record revenue, profits, and Mac and iPhone sales in what is a traditionally strong holiday quarter, despite difficult economic conditions. The company reported nearly $15.7 billion in revenue for the quarter and is offering guidance of $11.0-$11.4 billion for the current quarter.
