John, actually, I have no strong opinion as to whether MSFT technically violated antitrust laws, although I have a belief (and it is just a belief) about what I think the court may find.
Without casting blame one way or another, I merely feel the case has a strong likelihood of resolving through some sort of an accord.
I'm a stockholder of MSFT and have been for some time. I have labored with the decision of whether to bail out or hang in. I have decided to hang in, but I must say I am not entirely comfortable with my decision. Consequently, I have hedged by increasing my positions in companies whose stock I feel would move higher based upon a harsh ruling against MSFT.
This is an extremely difficult case, particularly in the current market environment. If Judge Jackson is forced to rule, there is no question in my mind that it will be years before the outcome is finally determined after the case winds its way through the Circuit Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court. I'm not sure that will benefit MSFT or its shareholders.
At this point, I would be happy with a settlement, recognizing that a split up of portions of MSFT (a possible condition of a settlement) may, ultimately, be in the best interests of shareholders. I think an accord probably can be structured that allows both sides to, in effect, claim a victory.
All IMHO, of course.
Good luck.
Tecinvestor |
