Mark,

Nice predictions one and all. FYI, I don't think Salesforce will be acquired in 2007 by anyone much less Oracle, but I like the boldness of the prediction.

Given CRM's valuation, and Benioff's larger than life persona, this is not a company that will be on the block in 2007. I liken this to Siebel...CRM may someday get acquired, but only years from now when it's growth days are ebbing.

As to NetSuite, obviously I've speculated on this very occurrence many times. It now looks like the IPO will happen, which would preclude a 2007 takeover; but I still won't believe the IPO is happening with 100% certainty until my trader calls me with an opening quote.

As to the Oracle Fusion Apps...totally agree, and aren't they already partway there in terms of rhetoric? Ellison was quick to paint SAP as being "two years behind" Oracle because of the 2008 vs. 2010 dates during the summer conference call.

Finally, as to Google...this is something we all should watch for. I think Google has grand designs that span far beyond their current revenue engines; and with the stock underperforming the market in 2006 despite phenomenal results; it's clear the market is pricing in a slowdown in growth...a nice healthy new market to penetrate (e.g., SMB apps) would potentially help fuel new excitement.

Best,

J
Jason Wood | Homepage | 12.27.06 - 9:19 pm | #