As expected, the European Union yesterday backed a proposal to fine Microsoft for 497 million euros ($613.5 million) on their on-going antitrust investigation, Microsoft is expected to appeal.
If the full European Commission backs the fine as expected on Wednesday it would exceed the 462 million euro penalty imposed on Hoffman-La Roche AG in 2001 for being ringleader of a vitamin cartel.
In the meantime, Microsoft and Lindows legal battle is set to continue this week.