April 19, 2000

Poor Microsoft <% if gsSubBrand = "aolsnapshot" then Response.Write("(Nasdaq: MSFT)") else Response.Write("(Nasdaq: MSFT)") end if %>. After the recent Department of Justice ruling against the software giant (something to the effect that the company can own Boardwalk but NOT Park Place, and it can't always be the thimble either), Fools are buzzing over what the future holds for the company.

This week, Matt Richey (TMF Verve) and Rob Landley (TMF Oak) are Dueling Fools. Beyond the monopoly decision, Matt and Rob have many other pros and cons to consider. And, they will.

Once you're done, and voted for the argument that moved you, check out our Duel Flashback. This time it is General Motors <% if gsSubBrand = "aolsnapshot" then Response.Write("(NYSE: GM)") else Response.Write("(NYSE: GM)") end if %>, which comes back in for a six month tune-up.

The Bull Argument... The most important of Microsoft's enduring strong suits is its business savvy. Microsoft's success, I believe, is a product of ingenious strategic business design, great marketing, and superb financial management. Continue »

The Bear Argument... Microsoft has a big problem, and the antitrust trial isn't it. The trial is a sideshow to the main action. Microsoft's real problem is the natural commoditization of a mature market, just like IBM once endured. Continue »

The Bull Argument »

 This Week's Duel