According to a Reuters story, Microsoft’s chief executive Steve Ballmer has said that Microsoft might walk awayfrom its proposed takeover of Yahoo if the two companies can’t agree on a price. Speaking in Italy, he said, "We’re prepared to move forward without a merger with Yahoo. We think the best way to move forward quickly [and gain critical mass against Google] is to come together with Yahoo. Hopefullythat works. But, if it doesn’t, we go forward. Time is money. We made [that] clear in the last letter we sent." The letter he referred to gave Yahoo a deadline of tomorrow to accept the $44.6billion deal Microsoft has placed before it. Failing that, the company would take their case to Yahoo shareholders. But while Ballmer raised the specter of the giant walking away, the company chieffinancial officer Chris Liddell was clearer: "With respect to Yahoo we have been clear speed is of the essence," he said. Since the value of Microsoft’s shares have fallen, thereal value of Microsoft’s offer has fallen.
