Microsoft Ready To Pop The Top On Coke

A survey made public on Monday said that Microsoft Corp. has almost muscled Coca Cola Co. out as the world's most valuable brand, despite its troubles with the US Justice Department.

A Reuters report today said the survey, conducted by Interbrand, a New York-based consulting firm, showed Microsoft as a close second, with its brand valued at $70.2 billion, behind Coca Cola's $72.5 billion value, which was down 13 percent from last year. The study also found that technology mainstays such as Microsoft, Intel Corp. and Nokia Corp., were strong as a group, but old economy stalwarts like General Electric Co., Walt Disney Co. and McDonald's Corp., hang in among the top 10.

The survey showed US companies dominating the ranks, holding 42 of the top 75 slots, but losing ground in the auto sector, with foreign car makers Volkswagen, Honda and Toyota Motor Corp. eclipsing US automakers, Reuters said, adding that Interbrand's valuation process considers future economic earnings, the role of the brand in those earnings, and the risk profile of the brand's expected earnings.

Reported By Newsbytes.com, http://www.newsbytes.com.