More On SEC Probe Into Game Publishers

Thanks to Reuters for a follow-up article discussing the SEC investigation into videogame publishers, in which Acclaim, Activision and THQ are already a part. Analysts elaborated on the probe: "..the investigation was probably considering two key questions: at what point in a game's release did the publisher recognize revenue from its sale, and whether reserves taken as insurance against weak sales were being used to smooth out revenues." This may mean the rush to get product out at the end of the financial year, as recently occurred with Tomb Raider, may be changed somewhat: "For example, some video game publishers book software revenue on the day the product is shipped. A more conservative approach could be to book revenue the day a retailer takes possession of the goods." Update: 07/21 22:14 GMT by S : There's also a good CNN Money article discussing the implications of this probe.

Is this really that important?

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Why would the SEC bother with video game publishers when the Enron crooks are still running around?

I can't understand why they continue to waste time with the little fish when the Enron and Global Crossing executives are all running around spending money they stole from employees and retired people.