Microsoft posts a 42% jump in earnings: software pacesetter shows little sign of slowdown in PCs, beats forecasts
Article Abstract:
Microsoft remains unscathed by the recent slowdown in the PC market, reporting a 42% increase in fiscal 3rd qtr 1996 earnings. Microsoft's net income for the period rose to $563 million from $386 million for the same period a year earlier. The company reported a 39% increase in revenue for the same period from $1.6 billion to $2.2 billion. Microsoft shares closed at $109, up over $3, in anticipation of a positive report. However, the shares lost $2 in after-hour trading to finish at $107. The reduction may have been a response to Microsoft's accounting policies, which effectively defer recognition of some revenue to succeeding periods. The policy, which was announced late in the day, veiled higher actual revenue growth. Results for the current quarter are expected to be slightly weaker, due to seasonal factors.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1996
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Oracle reports second-period earnings of 19 cents a share, missing estimates
Article Abstract:
Oracle announced net income of $187 million, or 19 cents a share, for the 2nd qtr 1998. The disappointing amount represents a slight improvement over 2nd qtr 1997's total of $179 million, or 18 cents a share. By comparison, analysts predicted a 23-cent share price, according to First Call. Oracle assigns part of the blame on the troubled Asian market, where the database software supplier's sales rose 1% to $210.8 million. A North American sales increase of only 29%, to $861.6 million, represented another setback. Oracle's 2nd qtr 1998 revenue jumped to $1.61 billion, up 23% from $1.31 billion. The figure would have reached 29% if not for Asian and European currency rate changes. Oracle said the slump could reach at least the 3rd qtr 1998.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1997
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