Microsoft Settles Internet Explorer Trademark Lawsuit, Eyes Expansion in Latin America

Strategic Insights -

Microsoft Corp. has settled a lawsuit with SyNet Inc. over the rights to the Internet Explorer brand, securing its use of the popular Web browser name. As part of the settlement, Microsoft paid SyNet an undisclosed amount for its interest in the name and Illinois state registrations. The company's Internet Explorer is the second-most-popular browser, trailing only Netscape Communications Corp.'s Navigator. This decision comes as Microsoft continues to expand its presence in the web browser market.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft settled a lawsuit with SyNet Inc. over the Internet Explorer brand, securing its use of the name.
  • The company paid SyNet an undisclosed amount for its interest in the name and Illinois state registrations.
  • Microsoft's Internet Explorer is the second-most-popular browser, behind Netscape Communications Corp.'s Navigator.
  • The company has expanded its Latin routes, with a goal to serve 20 cities in 17 countries within three years, pending regulatory approval.
  • PAB Bankshares Inc. plans to acquire Eagle Bancorp Inc. for $20.5 million in stock, expanding its presence in southern Georgia.
  • PAB will have assets of about $500 million after the acquisition.
  • Citibank will close its Universal Card Services operation in Columbus in October, affecting 200 workers.

Statistics:

  • Microsoft paid an undisclosed amount for SyNet's interest in the Internet Explorer name and its Illinois state registrations.
  • Microsoft's Internet Explorer is the second-most-popular browser, with an unspecified market share.
  • Netscape Communications Corp.'s Navigator is the most-popular browser, with an unspecified market share.
  • PAB Bankshares Inc. will acquire Eagle Bancorp Inc. for $20.5 million in stock.
  • PAB will have assets of about $500 million after the acquisition.
  • 200 workers will be affected when Citibank closes its Universal Card Services operation in Columbus.
  • The acquisition is expected to be completed by December.

Sources:

  • Bloomberg News Service
  • Bloomberg News