After the failure of talks last week between Microsoft's Steve Ballmer and the EU's Competition Minister, Mario Monti, there is speculation that the EU are ready to impose a fine of half a billion euros on the US software giant. Even more important than the fine, authorities are said to be ready 'to set limits on its practice of bundling software and services with its Windows operating system, which is an important part of the software firm's commercial strategy.'

Microsoft is regarded as a hard—driving, aggressive firm, traits not particularly congenial to the cartel instincts animating many European governments and industries.

Of course, if Microsoft really wanted to play hardball, they'd just remove all licensing from their European products. Imagine, all the European users of Microsoft products being told that their continued use is a violation of the law. Of course, Microsoft would never do such a thing, but it's certainly a way to bring Europe to an abrupt stop. 

Posted by Michael Morris  03 23 04