Microsoft defends methods as common for its industry
Article Abstract:
Microsoft opened its antitrust trial defense by defending its chmn, William H. Gates, and emphasizing that its aggressive business methods reflect the computer industry as well as strengthen the economy. The two-hour opening statement by lead lawyer John Warden responded to the Justice Department and 20 states, which are basing much of their suit against Microsoft on an alleged company effort to extend its market power against Netscape in the Web browser software market. Microsoft also is attempting to position itself for a barrage of Government evidence in the next few weeks that could damage the company's reputation regardless of the trial's outcome. Warden blasted the Government for attempting to characterize Bill Gates as a demon instead of a visionary who has produced benefits for the information age society. Netscape executives have misconstrued a Jun 1995 meeting with Microsoft, in which the Government says Microsoft allegedly pressured Netscape to divide the Internet software market. Warden added that the Government fails to understand the computer industry's need for company cooperation to ensure compatibility among sophisticated technology products.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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Microsoft defense strategy starts to come into focus; attack on even minor points of U.S. case
Article Abstract:
Microsoft's cross-examination of economist Frederick R. Warren-Bolton reveals the company's antitrust trial defense strategy of attacking various parts of the Government's case. Warren-Bolton, the seventh Government witness, has been under contentious and detailed cross-examination for four days as Microsoft is attempting to examine his long written testimony. Microsoft is aiming to use Warren-Bolton's testimony to contradict Government claims that it has extended its market power unfairly by stifling Web browser competition. The lengthy cross-examination is focusing mostly on whether Microsoft formed exclusionary deals with PC makers, ISPs and multimedia companies. Warren-Bolton, in contrast to previous industry witnesses testifying for the Government, has discussed a range of issues affecting the case. Other issues include PC manufacturers' hybrid Web browsers and the definition of a monopolist as one who can raise prices with impunity.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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Pricing at issue as U.S. finishes Microsoft case
Article Abstract:
The Department of Justice called Franklin M. Fisher as its last witness in the case against Microsoft Corp. Fisher, an economist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, testified that Microsoft practiced predatory pricing by giving away its browser and undercutting competitors such as Netscape Communications Corporation and Sun Microsystems.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1999
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