Decline of Qualcomm Shares Continues

Qualcomm Inc. shares continued to fall Tuesday on investor concern that lawsuits and lower profit margins may hurt future results, analysts said. Shares of the manufacturer of wireless equipment fell about 10%, losing $3.125 to close at $42.375 on Nasdaq. Since April 7, when Qualcomm shares hit $60.125, the stock is down 29%. The decline is partly because of lawsuits that have been filed against Qualcomm by rivals Motorola Inc. and LM Ericsson, analysts said. A California court recently granted Motorola’s request for a temporary restraining order stopping Qualcomm from making or marketing its “Q” phone, which uses new digital technology for wireless voice and data services. The restraining order, which was granted April 10, is in effect through today. Qualcomm officials weren’t available for comment.