Microsoft shrugs off IT market woes
Microsoft looks likely to show a boost to sales in its fourth financial quarter despite the global downturn in IT spending, with its controversial licensing plan credited with safeguarding the gains.
The company releases its results on July 18 and many analysts are tipping that its new licensing scheme will boost earnings.
A survey of 25 analysts by market watcher Thomas First Call found a consensus forecast for sales of $7.06bn, up from $6.6bn the previous year.
Business customers have until the end of this month to get their licensing plans in order before Licensing 6.0 comes into effect.
Analysts said that Microsoft was likely to offer a cautious statement ahead of releasing figures and growth is expected to slow in subsequent quarters.