EU fines Microsoft record $1.35 billion

[istanbul]

The European Commission fined Microsoft a record 899 million euros ($1.35 billion) on Wednesday for defying sanctions imposed on the software giant for antitrust violations, far exceeding the original penalty.
The Commission, executive arm of the European Union, has now fined Microsoft 1.68 billion euros for its original violation and for failing to comply with sanctions, more than any other firm. It said no other company had ever ignored sanctions.
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[gkd_uk]

Will they still be able to afford Yahoo now?

 

[mrcrowley]

Will they still be able to afford Yahoo now?

I heard Yahoo rejected their offer some time ago. Good on them

 

[temi]

Actually, they have settled the fine, I heard the were already expecting this so they have put some money aside for it.

 

[bochgoch]

I wonder what the EU will do with all that money - be nice to think they'd spend it on something worthwhile and lasting - research into cure for diseases or monuments in all member states ... probably just waste it of commissioners expenses

 

[smeagain]

It would serve the EU right if MS decided to not pay the fine and impose a total embargo on all Microsoft Product Sales to EU Countries. Then see how long it would be before the pressure from EU Member states made them Eat Humble Pie.

What other company spends Billions on developement and is then forced to disclose the resultant technical specification to competitors.

 

[od2007]

MS is the only company who can afford this kinda fine. They will get over it.