Microsoft Skips Adviser, Saves Millions

Microsoft MSFT snubbed investment banks for its largest deal ever, saving an estimated $25 million to $30 million by not using an adviser on the $8.5 billion takeover of Internet phone service Skype. Skype's advisers, Goldman Sachs GS and JPMorgan (JPM: 45.26, +0.30, +0.67%), will split about $30 million to $35 million in fees, according to Freeman Consulting. Goldman Sachs declined to comment. JPMorgan was not immediately available to comment. The world's largest software company figured buying a private company could be done in-house, particularly one with a lead investor representing the full ownership. Continue reading the article.