I’ll be tracking AAPL more closely than ever in the days ahead, since it is closing on a Hidden Pivot rally target with the potential to create a major top. If one occurs, the stock market will be topping as well, since Apple shares, valued at nearly $2 trillion, are the most important market bellwether of them all globally. The target lies at 490.97, and it is all but certain to be achieved, given the gap-up moves through x and p (see inset). I cannot guarantee that this will be THE top, since the pattern’s point ‘A’ low is not very compelling. But there is just one logical alternative at 519.50 that would remain if 490.97 is easily exceeded. It comes from sliding ‘A’ down to the 236.90 low recorded on April 2. However, the pattern shown is sufficiently clear that a tradeable pullback from 490.97 is extremely likely. This scenario will make an excellent bet, presumably using put options priced below $1 that expire in about 8-12 days. _______ UPDATE (Aug 17, 7:15 p.m. ET) Buyers have turned uncharacteristically lugubrious, doing a Parkinson’s shuffle atop the 457.37 ‘secondary’ pivot rather than a sprightly jig. This implies AAPL may need to swoon in order to get a running start on 490.97.  Traders please note:  If the stock were to fall to p=423.78, that would trigger a mildly enticing ‘mechanical’ buy, stop 401.38. _______ UPDATE (Aug 18, 5:48 p.m.): AAPL needs to close above the 464.36 top of the pooch-screwing range of the last three days to get back in gear.