Microsoft reports record Q2 revenues

Microsoft has reported strong results for its second quarter of 2009 ending 31 December, with profits up 60 percent on the back of strong PC sales.

The company posted profits of US$6.66bn (A$7.54bn), up 60 percent on the same period last year. Revenues reached US$19.02bn (A$21.51bn).

"Exceptional demand for Windows 7 led to positive top-line growth for the company," said Peter Klein, chief financial officer at Microsoft. "Our continuing commitment to managing costs allowed us to drive earnings performance ahead of the revenue growth."

Microsoft sold more than 60 million licences for Windows 7, making it the fastest selling operating system in history. The vast bulk of these came from the sale of new computers.

"This is a record quarter for Windows units," said Kevin Turner, chief operating officer at Microsoft. "We are thrilled by the consumer reception to Windows 7 and by business enthusiasm to adopt Windows 7."

The results add fresh evidence of a marked increase in PC sales. Consumer sales of computers over the crucial Christmas period were strong, and there are continuing signs that businesses are starting a major refresh cycle.