Microsoft Posts 1st Loss since 1986 Caused by Write-down of aQuantive

Posted by Joachim Bartels | Sep 2, 2012 | Microsoft, Platforms / Workflow Tools, United States | 0 |

Microsoft posted a quarterly loss of $492 million, or 6 cents a share, the first negative quarter since it went public in March 1986.

AD STRUGGLES: The loss was caused by a $6.2 billion write-down of its online ad business aQuantive, which it bought in 2007 for $6.3 billion. Its online ad business remains a small and money-losing part of Microsoft.

LOOKING AHEAD: The company’s future is tied to Windows 8 and a refresh of its Office and server software suites coming out this fall. Windows 8 is set for sale on Oct. 26.

Source: sfgate.com

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Joachim Bartels

Joachim C Bartels is a co-founder, director, head of information resources and Editor-in-Chief of BIIA. In his capacity as Editor-in-Chief he is responsible for the selection of relevant information content concerning industry insights, trends, technological developments, standards and policies impacting BIIA members in particular and the business information industry in general.

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