The U.K. Looks Into the HP Buyout of Autonomy

Investing

Published: March 12, 2013 7:00 am

Last Updated: December 27, 2013 8:57 am

The never-ending battle over the Hewlett-Packard Co. (NYSE: HPQ) buyout of Autonomy continues. HP took a $5 billion write-off less than a year after the deal. It seems that the big company was duped by Autonomy’s financial claims, or so it says. Now, the United Kingdom has decided that it should weigh in. According to the BBC:

The UK’s Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is investigating the sale of technology firm Autonomy to Hewlett Packard, according to a filing from HP.

It joins the US Department of Justice and the UK accounting regulator in questioning the firm.

A number of investors and due diligence experts believe that some fault sits with HP management and its board. The company engaged investment banks and auditors to review the numbers. Certainly, with so much money involved, it would be prudent to make a meticulous evaluation. HP clearly did not. Now it has to rely on regulators, and probably the court system, to clean up the mess.

Travel Cards Are Getting Too Good To Ignore (sponsored)

Credit card companies are pulling out all the stops, with the issuers are offering insane travel rewards and perks.

We’re talking huge sign-up bonuses, points on every purchase, and benefits like lounge access, travel credits, and free hotel nights. For travelers, these rewards can add up to thousands of dollars in flights, upgrades, and luxury experiences every year.

It’s like getting paid to travel — and it’s available to qualified borrowers who know where to look.

We’ve rounded up some of the best travel credit cards on the market. Click here to see the list. Don’t miss these offers — they won’t be this good forever.