Apple (AAPL) Shares Show Unusual Trend Leading up to Today's Event

Apple Inc. (Nasdaq: AAPL) shares have been in an unusual trend over the last several months leading up the launch of the next-generation iPhone, which is expected to happen at today's special event.

According to data from Bespoke Investment Group, in the three-months prior to an iPhone launch, Apple shares are generally trending higher. The biggest gain was the three-month period ahead of the iPhone 3GS debut in June 2009, which saw Apple shares rise 73 percent.

However, Apple is down over 13 percent ahead of today's event. Of course, the broader market hasn't fared to well over the last few months either, with fears of slowing growth in China hitting markets.

Notably, about 1 month following the launch of a new iPhone, Apple shares have generally seen some negative trading.

Could it also mean that expectations for today's event are lower than before? Will a rally start with any surprise announcements?

The Apple event begins at 1pm ET (10am PT) today. The Bespoke Investment data follows.

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