In a closely watched deal, Barry Diller's IAC/InterActiveCorp. Monday said it would acquire Ask Jeeves, a second-tier online search engine, for $1.85 billion in stock. The move further solidifies
Diller, a one-time TV impressario, in the interactive media industry. It also comes as the online search marketplace is heating up, with MSN's official launch into the market last month. Ask Jeeves
will join a roster of other businesses now under the IAC umbrella, including online travel agency Expedia, Web dating site Match.com, and retail channel Home Shopping Network. -- Wendy Davis.
