Silicon Investor (SI) -- The First Internet Community

STOCKTALK

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor. We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community. If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.

Technology Stocks : Network Associates (NET) -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: The Rancher who wrote (4169)	2/4/1999 5:19:00 PM
From: Chuzzlewit	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 6021

Rancher, the accounting is what is supposed to allow us to assess the quality of the business' management. It is the only way business has to communicate with its owners concerning management effectiveness. Based on what I have seen, I simply don't know where this company is. Some time ago some posters asked me what it would take for NETA stock to begin showing signs of acting like certificates of ownership in a growth company. I responded that it would take several quarters of clean accounting (meaning no more pooling of interest acquisitions). I still hold to that view. I have not overlooked the future. Because of my belief in the future I continue to own the stock. Unfortunately, it is simply a belief (or perhaps a wish) at this point, because the accounting has so obfuscated the operating results that it is difficult if not impossible for any outsider to tell where the company is. You are correct when you say ... the strategic gains are what will drive growth in the future. But those strategic gains need to be quantified by accounting. In looking at the numbers, what strategic gain, if any, was actually realized by the acquisition of Network General (for which we NETA shareholders paid a huge premium)? TTFN, CTC

To: The Rancher who wrote (4169)	2/4/1999 5:43:00 PM
From: Charlie Smith	Read Replies (2) \| Respond to of 6021

Rancher: sometimes you need to take your head out of the numbers and look at business environment GOING FORWARD I agree that in the long run it is strategy and execution which determines winners and losers. But in the institutional investment world, reliable numbers ARE A GIVEN. Most managers dismiss questionable accounting out of hand. Talk of prospective "strategic advantages" can never overcome a perception that a company is fudging its numbers. I would argue that it is during precisely these times that you need to examine the numbers even more closely to determine if a company is accurately reflecting its results. Talk is cheap. Debacles such as Cendant and Oxford Health were expensive lessons for those who failed to do their homework. Charlie

To: The Rancher who wrote (4169)	2/4/1999 6:58:00 PM
From: MaryinRed	Respond to of 6021

Yes....getting locked in the past is a danger of technical analysis and the "fundamental analysis"... you have to look to the future on NETA....and that is....what will be the market need for "security"...?? will it be less or more and if it is "more" who best will supply it? that's why I have NETA... it is the "premier" security stock..it has the majority of Gov't contracts, and is "actively managed"..meaning...the management there...is watching what all is going on...and make acquisitions...etc.....to buttress up weak areas....etc... Now..I admit ...it is my smallest holding...at the moment...but I buy more.... I am very "bullish" on NETA. NOw...a comment...am I bullish..because I perceive "consumers" as wanting more security....NO! I am bullish because I perceive the "web site owners" , "e commerce" and "email" producers/providers....as perceiving it as "humongously important" MasterCard perceived the "CREDIT CARD SECURITY" issues to be.....unimaginably important!!!!......for example... even though to consumers it is "ho hum"...virtually a non issue... So...it is the providers....(performing to safeguard THEIR consumers) who.....will drive the "need" for security... Just my thoughts......smiles....Mary