Second-Half Tech Success Will Be a Matter of Choice

Tech stocks overall enjoyed a positive second quarter, but investors endured another wild ride. And it isn't over yet, as a slew of quarterly financial reports in the coming weeks will provide plenty of fodder for buy-or-bail decisions.

Traditionally, tech investors benefit during the second half of the year as consumers increase electronic-related purchases for back-to-school and holiday shopping seasons, and businesses tend to flush their budgets.

However, the potential carryover has been clouded this year because of a flurry of rabid buying in May. Investors snapped up tech stocks that month, as they literally banked on strong results for the second half. Solid first-quarter reports and several key midquarter updates all fueled the increased interest in tech stocks. ...