While the current impasse over Oracle's attempt to acquire enterprise software rival PeopleSoft was meant to be taboo at the Paris event, questions were asked and answered. A frenzied bidding battle for PeopleSoft began last May when the company agreed to acquire ERP rival JD Edwards. Oracle stepped in with a bid to acquire PeopleSoft for US$5.1bn, which edged up to US$7bn as the bidding continued. However, in July PeopleSoft said it completed its acquisition of JD Edwards for US$6bn having acquired 88pc of shareholders' stock. Oracle vice president and strategic thinker Chuck Phillips said that the company has not backed down from its intention to acquire PeopleSoft and is awaiting regulatory approval from the US Department of Justice and the European Union. Philips said: "We are optimistic. We have a good case and believe that our acquisition of PeopleSoft will improve conditions in the business.