PC makers are revving up their ads to reach more knowledgeable buyers
Article Abstract:
Several microcomputer companies, including IBM and Sun Microsystems Inc, begin running ads that appeal to the knowledgeable buyer. The computer industry, which used to run ads that made the technology look friendly and warm, now begins targeting users that have a considerable understanding of technology. IBM no longer uses its Charlie Chaplin character and the use of the friendly cast of MASH to advertise its computers; new ads are filled with beasts and high-performance data that is indecipherable to the layman. Sun Microsystems displays its products as the 'ultimate striving machine' in its ads and Advanced Logic Research Inc calls its products the 'leader of the pack' and exhorts customers to 'rip your competition to shreds.'
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1991
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Moody's strips triple-A rating off IBM debt: computer maker's grade drops by two notches; firm's stock, bonds slip
Article Abstract:
Moody's Investors Service Inc is lowering IBM's triple-A rating to a double-A-2 rating as a result of IBM's worsening financial situation. IBM had alerted investors that the change was imminent, and the announcement did not seriously affect IBM's stock and bond prices. The new rating affects approximately $18 billion of long-term debt. IBM is not pleased with the decision but announced that it still has a strong balance sheet. IBM reported its first losses in 1991, showing the company's vulnerability to the recession and to growing competition in the computer industry. A total of 13 major companies now enjoy the triple-A rating at Moody's. A lower rating can raise the costs of loans and can lower the market value of bonds.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1992
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Large IBM shipment of OS/2 software heightens competition with Microsoft
Article Abstract:
IBM is shipping 700,000 copies of its OS/2 2.0 operating system and plans a television advertising campaign to promote the product. Meanwhile, IBM has also settled a legal dispute over OS/2 royalty payments with rival Microsoft Corp, which originally helped IBM build the operating system. IBM's OS/2 strategy is aimed at overturning Microsoft's dominance in the operating system market. Microsoft has shipped about 10 million copies of its popular Microsoft Windows program. Analysts believe IBM is selling its operating system at a great loss. Analysts estimate that while IBM sells OS/2 at $50 to $75 per copy, it also spends about $26 on materials and $23 on royalties to Microsoft.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1992
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- Abstracts: AT&T is trying hard to get a major role in multimedia future. NCR seeks aid from holders to fight AT&T
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