Jefferies Lowers Estimates, Price Target for Microsoft (MSFT)

Jefferies lowered estimates for Microsoft MSFT after signs of a slowdown in the PC market. Analysts at Jefferies cite concerns about PC demand in the next six to 12 months, mainly due to the slowing recovery in the U.S. and Western Europe. The analysts said, "We have lowered our forward estimates and price target to handicap for softening consumer PC sales and a lower end mix shift this summer. While it's difficult to know how long the seeming softness might last, an increased dividend could offset some of the downside." Jefferies gives Microsoft a Buy rating and a $33 price target, based on 12.6x CY10E EPS, plus $5.03 in cash. Shares of MSFT are currently trading at $24.49.