Cash-rich Microsoft girds for new markets
Reuters | at | by Mike
Gates saw his stake in Microsoft, the muscular software company he co-founded, rise by more than $2 billion when a judge closed the case on an antitrust settlement with the U.S. government last week and shares in the company shot higher as an immediate response. While that may pale in comparison to other billion-dollar swings in his favor during Microsoft's 27-year history, it could prove to be the sweetest gain yet, even as the company still faces a battery of remaining lawsuits.
But with Microsoft still facing legal challenges to its market position, Gates has also shown a new-found respect for public diplomacy, observers said. "We are committed to being a responsible industry leader," Gates told reporters after the ruling, joined by his wife Melinda, credited by many with helping to keep his legendary temper in check at his second trial appearance in April.