Microsoft Corp (MSFT)

[JustCallMeSassy]

Microsoft on Thursday reported fourth quarter earnings, which capped its worst year in its 23-year history as a public company. Its earnings report came after the closing bell on a day when the tech-dominant Nasdaq Composite Index rose for a 12th day in a row -- the longest such streak since 1992. The index rose 2.5%, boosted by an 11% gain in online auctioneer eBay after it said current-quarter results would top analyst estimates.




Microsoft reported quarterly revenues had declined 17% to $13.10 billion, amid falling global demand for new PCs and servers. The news followed recent positive earnings news from Apple, Intel and IBM.

Operating income, net income and diluted earnings per share for the quarter were $3.99 billion, $3.05 billion and $0.34 per share, which represented declines of 30%, 29% and 26%, respectively, when compared with the prior year period.


Microsoft also presented a cautious outlook for the second half of 2009.

“It’s going to be difficult for the rest of the year,” said Chris Liddell, chief financial officer. “We’re really still not sure we’re out of the woods.”