STOCK WATCH

Oracle

Oracle reported a 36 per cent rise in net income to $293 million for the three months ended February 28, with revenue rising 19 per cent to #2.08 billion, up from $1.75 billion in the same period last year. However, shares plummeted in after-hours trading on 11 March as it was reported that software licence revenue had risen seven per cent.

National Semiconductor

National Semiconductor made a smaller than expected loss for its third quarter ended 28 February, although the company said it expected a difficult fourth quarter in the face of an uncertain PC market. The net loss for the period was $27.2 million, compared with a net profit of $26.2 million in the same period a year ago. Revenue was $500 million, down from $650 million.

Lycos

Lycos shares soared last week following US reports that dissident shareholder CMGI was looking for suitors to challenge the proposed USA Networks merger deal and could even consider making a bid itself. CMGI is Lycos' biggest shareholder with a 20 per cent stake and has hired investment bank Morgan Stanley Dean Witter & Co to help it find alternative buyers.

Computer Associates

Computer Associates shares fell 13 per cent to close at $34.94 last week after analysts voiced concern over near-term demand, increased competition and a potential peak in margins due to increased service revenue. Morgan Stanley lowered its rating on the stock to neutral from outperform.