Microsoft Struts Its Stuff

"Vista" may be the moniker Microsoft(MSFT Quote) gave the next version of its Windows operating system, but investors haven't had a clear view of the long-anticipated product -- until maybe now.

Analysts and investors are hoping that Bill Gates & Co. will offer a closer peek at Vista, formerly called Longhorn, at the company's annual analyst-day meeting Thursday in Redmond, Wash., the day after Microsoft released the first beta of the product. They're also looking for more clarity on a host of other issues, ranging from a higher dividend to Internet search.

"What I want to hear is that they've got renewed vigor to really execute on these opportunities and make sure they have the key people working in the right direction," says Chris Bonavico, a portfolio manager with Delaware Investments, which holds Microsoft shares. "I'm getting a little frustrated with the fact that things have been so long in coming." ...