Apple reels from Japanese investigation

A probe by the Japanese Fair Trade Commission into alleged price-fixing has taken a bite out of Apple Computer.

Coupled with signs of slowing PC sales in the United States, the company's stock dropped 4 percent on Thursday and another 5 percent in late afternoon trading Friday.

The Japanese investigation is focusing on allegations made by retailers that the company is guilty of dictating the prices at which they can sell Apple products.

Apple's sales in Japan represent 15 percent to 20 percent of the company's total unit shipments and revenue.

The story is online at www.techweb.com .