Microsoft confirms that FTC probe into its business has been expanded

Article Abstract:

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has expanded its investigation of Microsoft Corp's competitive practises. The original investigation was reported to have focused on an agreement between IBM and Microsoft, signed in 1989. The new investigation centers on allegations that the company has monopolized or attempted to monopolize the market for operating systems and software for microcomputers. Microsoft's stock has fallen as a result of the investigation and currently rests at $107.25. Microsoft has been at the focus of much dissent in the software industry because of the company's unique position of publisher of both market leading operating systems and applications. The company has experienced enormous growth in the past five years, with earnings growing seven-fold to $279.2 million, and revenues six-fold to $1.18 billion in the last fiscal year.

Computer integrated systems design, Unfair competition (Commerce), Unfair competition, MSFT, Government Agency, Legal Issues, Computer Software Industry

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Nintendo to ease restrictions on U.S. game designers

Article Abstract:

Nintendo Co is loosening restrictions on who makes its video games in the wake of federal investigation by the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) into anti-competitive practices. Business records from Nintendo and around half a dozen of its licensees have been seized by the FTC and is expected to be used as evidence in a formal case against Nintendo in Dec 1990. Nintendo's US arm controls around 80 percent of the $5 billion video-game market in the US and is expected to sell nearly nine million game sets, which sell for $100 each, in 1990. The electronic games concern denies that it is loosening restrictions because of the pending law suit and instead maintains a belief that outsiders can produce its products without defects.

Games, toys, and children's vehicles, Laws, regulations and rules, Manufacturing, Video game industry, Video games industry, Video games, Nintendo Company Ltd., Government Regulation

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FTC's lawyers seek injunction on Microsoft; report urges the agency to bar some practices by the software maker

Article Abstract:

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) lawyers request the agency's commissioners to seek a preliminary injunction against Microsoft Corp. The move comes as part of a 30-month-old government investigation into Microsoft's trade practices. FTC:Watch, a newsletter, says an 'informal' 250-page report was delivered to the commissioners on Dec 4, 1992, suggesting the FTC consider an injunction aimed at practices relating to marketing Microsoft's operating-system software products. Microsoft reported sales of $1.1 billion in FY 1992, ended Jun 30, and sales are expected to increase by 18 percent to $1.3 billion in 1993. Microsoft's power has continued to grow, and competitors complain of unfair marketing advantages.

Computer peripheral equipment, not elsewhere classified, Antitrust law, Antitrust Issue

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