February 10, 2005

A jury said Ariba Inc., a maker of B2B and supply-management software, actually infringed three patents owned by rival EPlus Inc., a decision that could result in a $294-million damage award against Ariba.

The federal jury is to hold a second trial this week in Alexandria, Va., to determine the amount of damages owed.

Herndon, Va.-based EPlus is seeking as much as $98 million, which could be tripled because the jury found that the infringement was intentional.

Ariba, based in Sunnyvale, Calif., said it intended to appeal the verdict.

Shares of EPlus rose $2.39, or 19%, to $15.24. Ariba fell $1.71, or 18%, to $8.04. Both trade on Nasdaq.

Source: LA Times