Microsoft and Yahoo 'to sign deal today'

GLOBAL - Microsoft and Yahoo are expected to confirm a multi-billion dollar search collaboration as early as Wednesday in the West, with company sources saying Microsoft will take over Yahoo's search operations while Yahoo will take the lead in search-advertising sales.

According to Western reports, the two internet giants have completed their negotiations one week after news of their partnership surfaced.

Reports add that Microsoft could pay Yahoo as much as US$3 billion for its search unit, which would be integral for the company to make a search stand against market leader Google.

The deal would also allow Yahoo to continue selling text ads found in search listings, reports continue.

The deal comes 18 months after Yahoo turned down Microsoft’s $47.5 billion acquisition bid.
| digital , global , microsoft , search , yahoo