Yahoo chief executive Carol Bartz has kept speculation of a
search deal with Microsoft alive by confirming that the two
companies are still talking about the possibility.
Microsoft is expected to make an announcement about a deal with
Yahoo later today when it unveils enhancements to its internet
search service.
Speculation about a deal has been fuelled by Microsoft's recent
registration of a limited liability company in Delaware, which
analysts say typically signals a merger or acquisition.
Bartz said a deal could still be struck if Yahoo got access to
the right data from a Microsoft-led combination and "if there's a
boatload of money", according to the
Financial Times.
Speaking at the All Things Digital conference in Carlsbad,
California, Bartz said executives have a responsibility to consider
any offer and whether it is in the best interest of
shareholders
At the annual News Corp conference, also in Carlsbad, Bartz
spoke of Yahoo's plans to add more social activity throughout,
which will include expanding Yahoo Answers to finance and
sports.
Another goal, Bartz said, was to enable users to customise the
main Yahoo landing page. This functionality will be available
towards the end of the year, she said.
Yahoo is also planning to expand and improve its video offerings
and make site registration and ad purchases easier.