Upstarts succeed where Microsoft fails: charging fees for Internet transactions
Article Abstract:
Qpass Inc., founded by former Microsoft Corp. executive Chase Franklin, has established itself as an "electronic middleman" for companies desiring to do business on the Internet, charging fees for services such as billing, collection, refunds, technical assistance and fraud protection. Microsoft, on the other hand, failed in its efforts to collect credit card purchase transaction fees when Visa International was pressured by member banks to withdraw from the pending arrangements and later when cable television providers balked at having to share revenue generated by their interactive services. According to Franklin, the difference between his company's efforts to collect online fees and those of Microsoft is Qpass provides 24-hour services. However, Nathan Myrhvold, chief technology officer for Microsoft, believes that fixed-price services will eventually undercut companies charging transaction service fees.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1999
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Microsoft moves to rule on-line sales
Article Abstract:
Sidewalk is Microsoft's attempt to dominate the electronic commerce industry on the Internet. The company's Web site, Sidewalk, is a guide to local entertainment, art and recreational activities available in a specific geographical location. The first of these sites was introduced in Apr 1997 for Seattle and a New York Sidewalk was introduced the following month. Microsoft expects to have Sidewalk cites for eight other US cities by the end of the year. Other companies are looking into entering the electronic commerce industry with the same type of middleman position between the buyers and sellers on the Internet. However, with Microsoft's $9 billion in cash and its presence on so many PCs, the company is already far ahead of its competition.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1997
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@Home seeks a place @ top of Web; a surfer bets on high speed and a big deal
Article Abstract:
@Home Corp. wants to acquire Excite Inc. and inch up on AOL as Internet access providers. It seems that the force behind @Home, CEO Tom Jermoluk, is confident in his ability to push @Home to be number one in the on-line services marketplace. With the purchase of Excite Inc, he should have no difficulties in accomplishing that goal.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1999
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Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
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