Microsoft sets a new strategy for investments

Article Abstract:

Microsoft plans to invest $5 million to $10 million in each of possibly 10 high-tech venture companies, according to insiders. The strategy represents a new departure for Microsoft, which invested $4.8 billion in software and Internet startup companies in 1997. Not only could Microsoft benefit from identifying new technology, it also could shepherd potential partners through their early development. The Microsoft shift is stirring controversy among many Silicon Valley-based companies. Some venture capitalists and software executives welcome Microsoft's help, while Microsoft CFO Greg Maffei said the software giant holds no ulterior motives. Others believe that Microsoft's dominant position can hamper company growth or possibly create conflicts of interest with future competitors. Microsoft already has seeded CMG Information Services and Accel Partners and is negotiating with others like Benchmark Capital, according to industry sources.

Computer Software, Software Publishers, Software, Microsoft Corp., Company investment, Investments, MSFT

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Amazon buys stake in upstart Drugstore.com

Article Abstract:

Drugstore.com opens for business on the Internet today, 2/25/99, selling pharmaceuticals and sundries, with an investment announcement from Amazon.com that it will take a 40% stake in the new 'store.' Besides the cash infusion, Amazon will share management tips with the upstart and promote its site on its own book Website.

Comment:

Online bookseller buying 40% stake in Drugstore.com

Asset sales & divestitures, On-Line Information Services, Videotex & Teletext, Telegraph & other communications, Drug stores and proprietary stores, Pharmacies and Drug Stores, Drug Stores, Mergers, acquisitions and divestments, Online services, Internet services, Abstract, Mail-order industry, Mail order business, E-commerce software, Drugstores, Amazon.com Inc., AMZN, Drugstore.com Inc.

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