Betting With Bill

Microsoft lost this round of its antitrust case, but don't sell management (or its stock) short

Let's put Microsoft's troubles in perspective. Since the government filed its antitrust suit 18 months ago, the company has won the Web-browser war, revenue growth has accelerated and earnings have been rising 10% per quarter. Put another way: Bill Gates' company has had a great year four times a year, even with the Feds breathing down its neck. Little wonder that the stock doubled in that same 18 months--the fourth such double in the past six years.

Microsoft's success has endless ripples. With more than 5 billion shares out and a market value exceeding $400 billion, the company is among those...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!