Microsoft Calls Positive Environment (MSFT)

Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT) came out with its earnings after the close (only on the website, no press release).  This was record revenues for its first quarter of up about 25% to $16.20 billion.  Operating income, net income and diluted earnings per share for the quarter were $7.12 billion, $5.41 billion and $0.62 EPS.  Thomson Reuters had estimates of $0.55 EPS and $15.8 billion.

Microsoft reaffirms operating expense guidance of $26.9 billion to $27.3 billion for the full year ending June 30, 2011.

The company talked about solid enterprise growth and “continued strong consumer demand for Office 2010, Windows 7, and Xbox 360 consoles and games.”

Office 2010 revenue grew over 15% in its first full quarter in market.  Here is an important takeaway… “Microsoft continues to see a healthy and sustaining business PC refresh cycle.”  Xbox 360 consoles grew 38%.  The company said that Bing continued to grow market share, while achieving major milestones in implementing Microsoft’s partnership with Yahoo.  The company discussed an improved business demand and adoption.

Microsoft shares closed up 0.88% at $26.28 today, and the stock is up 1.5% at $26.28 in the after-hours session.

JON C. OGG