Microsoft Expects Content Services Loss

Microsoft Corp. said its Internet and news services will lose $300 million to $400 million a year over the next few years. The services, which include Microsoft’s MSNBC joint venture with General Electric Co.’s NBC network, the Microsoft Network online service, and the company’s travel and financial services, aren’t expected to break even for three years, said Steve Ballmer, Microsoft’s vice president of sales and support. Meanwhile, Microsoft and Tele-Communications severed an agreement that gave the cable television provider a 20% stake in Microsoft’s online service. . . . MCI Communications Corp. Chief Executive Bert Roberts turned the job over to president Gerald Taylor until the company’s $23-billion acquisition by British Telecommunications is completed.