It’s somewhat ceremonial, but also an important milestone: Yahoo and Microsoft have announced the finalization and execution of the search deal that was first announced in late July.
The companies issued this statement:
“Microsoft and Yahoo! believe that this deal will create a sustainable and more compelling alternative in search that can provide consumers, advertisers and publishers real choice, better value, and more innovation.
“Yahoo! and Microsoft welcome the broad support the deal has received from key players in the advertising industry and remain hopeful that the closing of the transaction can occur in early 2010.”
While the deal still faces regulatory approval, today’s announcement means Microsoft and Yahoo can now move forward with their integration plans. Officials in Canada and Australia have already signed off on the agreement.
There’s more discussion on Techmeme.