Sluggish PC sales dampen demand for Windows software

Microsoft store in Boston. Microsoft’s flagship Windows business has been under pressure for three years as PC sales have declined. — AP

SEATTLE: Microsoft Corp reported a fall in its quarterly profit that was in line with Wall Street forecasts, as sluggish personal computer sales dampened demand for Windows software and the company struggled with the impact of the strong US dollar.

“While currency is a headwind for Microsoft and other large international companies, we would characterise the headline numbers as good enough, although some bulls may have been hoping for a bigger beat,” said Daniel Ives, an analyst at FBR Capital Markets.