Yahoo Still Standing After Closing Bell

Ben Franklin might not have agreed, but after Microsoft withdrew its offer, the drop in Yahoo's stock became as certain as death and taxes.  The only surprise was that, after a full day of trading, the drop was more of a dip than a plunge.

Exactly $4.30, or 15.00 percent, is what got knocked off every share.  Since Yahoo was below $20 before Microsoft intervened, its closing price of $24.37 makes it seem like investors are coming out of this whole affair at least slightly ahead.

As for why only a small slide occurred, there are several explanations.  First, Steve Ballmer may have done Yahoo a huge favor by announcing his decision on a Saturday.  Had the same thing happened while markets were open, panic could have set in, and a much bigger fall would likely have resulted.

Also, as