Microsoft has confirmed that it has agreed to buy internet phone service Skype.<\/p>\n
The deal will see Microsoft pay $8.5bn (\u00a35.2bn) for Skype, making it Microsoft’s largest acquisition.<\/p>\n
Luxembourg-based Skype has 663 million global users. In August last year it announced plans for a share flotation, but this was subsequently put on hold.<\/p>\n
Internet auction house eBay bought Skype for $2.6bn in 2006, before selling 70% of it in 2009 for $2bn.<\/p>\n
This majority stake was bought by a group of investors led by private equity firms Silver Lake and Andreessen Horowit.<\/p>\n
Other major shareholders include tech-firm Joltid and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board.<\/p>\n
‘Defensive move’<\/p>\n
Microsoft chief executive Steve Ballmer said: “Skype is a phenomenal service that is loved by millions of people around the world.<\/p>\n
“Together we will create the future of real-time communications so people can easily stay connected to family, friends, clients and colleagues anywhere in the world.”<\/p>\n
Skype will now become a new division within Microsoft, and Skype chief executive Tony Bates will continue to lead the business, reporting directly to Mr Ballmer.<\/p>\n
“It’s a strategic asset and a defensive move for Microsoft,” said Colin Gillis, an analyst at BGC Financial.<\/p>\n
“If they can put it on Windows 8, it gives them an advantage. It helps them in the tablet market.”<\/p>\n
Other analysts say Microsoft’s aim in buying Skype is to improve its video conferencing services.<\/p>\n
Price concerns<\/p>\n
Although the price tag of $8.5bn will not stretch the US giant, some experts have questioned whether it is paying too much for a company that has struggled to turn a profit.<\/p>\n
Michael Clendenin, managing director of consulting firm RedTech Advisors, said: “If you consider Skype was just valued at about $2.5bn 18 months ago when a chunk was sold off, then $8.5bn seems generous.<\/p>\n
“It means Microsoft has a high wall to climb to prove to investors that Skype is a necessary linchpin for the company’s online and mobile strategy.”<\/p>\n
This view was echoed by Ben Woods, head of research group CCS Insight.<\/p>\n
“The big unanswered question is how do Skype assets work for Microsoft… how do you justify the price?” he said.<\/p>\n
Skype was founded in 2003.<\/p>\n
Calls to other Skype users are free, while the company charges for those made to both traditional landline phones and mobiles.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Link: <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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