Microsoft Buys Price-Check Site for $486M

Microsoft (MSFT Quote) on Friday said it would acquire European price-comparison Web site producer Greenfield Online (SRVY Quote) for $486 million in cash.

Greenfield, owner of Ciao GmbH, draws more than 26.5 million unique visitors per month across seven countries to its consumer reviews, ratings and price comparisons for thousands of online retailers, Microsoft said in a press release. The platform will be integrated into Microsoft's Live Search consumer research and electronic commerce initiative.

Microsoft also secured a buyer for Greenfield's Internet survey business. Both deals are expected to close in the fourth quarter.