Improved Microsoft potential lifts UK and global markets

This has boosted confidence in other software firms such as Sage and Logica CMG and lifted the FTSE 100 20 points or 0.5% to 4592 within the first hour of trading, while the FTSE All-Share index also rose 0.5% to 2287. Sage, maker of accounting software, gained 3.75p or 2.2% to 178.25p on the back of Microsoft’s growth predications. LogicaCMG, the computer services firm, also rose 2.5p or 1.1% to 238.5p. Strong performances for UK technology companies also transferred to Asian markets after Microsoft’s little announcement, as it is companies like Fujitsu and Semiconductor Manufactu...