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Microsoft sales dip hits profits
MICROSOFT, the world’s largest software company, last night posted a greater-than-expected quarterly profit fall of 22 per cent, as sales of computers running its Windows operating system dipped.
The sharp decline surprised investors, who had underestimated the effect of weak personal computer sales, sending Microsoft’s shares down more than two per cent in after hours trading.
Microsoft said fiscal first quarter profit fell to $4.47bn (£2.78bn) from $5.74bn in the year ago quarter.
Some revenue was deferred ahead of upcoming releases of its core Windows and Office products.