Microsoft cautious on outlook despite increased profits

Microsoft reported a quarterly profit in Q2 of $2.55bn (€2.3bn). Earnings, up 12% since last year, came in at 47 cents a share, slightly up on analysts' estimates of 46 cents a share.

The company is to split its shares 2-1 and will, for the first time pay a dividend, of 16 cents a share before the split.