Microsoft Q1 net up 9% at $15 bn

 Software company, Microsoft has posted a 9% jump in revenues at $15.06 bn  for the first quarter ended at September 30, compared with the year-ago period, propelled by high sales from a client segment and business, among others.     

The company's net profit for the quarter under review stood at $4.37 bn .     

"Microsoft showed particular strength in multi-year annuity sales, which grew more than 20% during the quarter from the combined businesses of client segment, Microsoft Business Division and Server and Tools," the firm said in a statement on Thursday.     

Further, the company reported an operating income of six billion dollars for the three months ending September 30.     

"In a challenging economic environment, the first-quarter results exhibit the strength and diversity of our business model," Microsoft's Chief Financial Officer Chris Liddell said.     

For the quarter ending December 31, Microsoft anticipates revenues in the range of $17.3-17.8 bn and operating income between $6.1-6.4 bn.     

Noting that the firm's business outlook reflects a balance of risks and the likelihood of a continued economic slowdown, Microsoft said it is focused on three main actions.     

"Working with customers to provide high-value products at the lowest total overall cost of ownership, increasing focus on expense management and targeting investment into the highest priority strategic opportunities," it said.
     
Meanwhile, for the year ending June 30, 2009, the company expects revenues of $ 64.9-66.4 bn  and operating income in the range of $24.4-25.5 billion.     

"We believe our exceptionally strong cash flow, product pipeline and financial strength will allow us to weather economic conditions well," Liddell added.