Microsoft Responds... In Advance

Steve Ballmer cut the timing a little close, but Jack Flack was not surprised to see the Microsoft boss declare that the first-quarter performance numbers that Yahoo will announce later today will not influence his company's bid.

Speaking at a Microsoft promotional event in Morocco, Ballmer told Reuters, "I wish Yahoo all the success with its results, but it doesn't affect the value of Yahoo to Microsoft."

What's the business spin implication? Previous news reports had speculated that a strong showing would prompt a sweetened offer. By making that point clear through a major wire service before Yahoo issues its release, Ballmer ensured the coverage of Yahoo's earnings will now likely include his dismissive comment, instead of speculating further on whether Microsoft will raise its offer.

(After all, does anybody believe that Yahoo will announce anything other than sterling numbers, even if Jerry Yang has to sell his family silver?)

Instead, the Yahoo coverage will now likely point to the Saturday deadline Microsoft has set for response to its $31-per-share offer.