Inktomi’s Quarterly Loss Wider Than Expected

Inktomi Corp., whose software speeds delivery of Internet traffic, said its fiscal second-quarter loss was wider than analysts’ forecasts because companies are buying less software.

The loss was 8 cents to 10 cents a share in the quarter endedSunday, including amortization of goodwill and other costs. On that basis, which doesn’t follow generally accepted accounting principles, the Foster City, Calif., company was expected to lose 5 cents a share, according to Thomson Financial/First Call.

Inktomi’s sales began declining last year as phone and Internet companies spent less on their networks. Revenue was $30 million to $31 million in the second quarter, down from an expected $40 million, according to First Call.

Inktomi shares fell 12 cents to $3.43 on Nasdaq. The preliminary results were announced after the close of regular trading.