combinations, some of the purchase price is allocated to goodwill and intangible assets. Impairment charges associated with goodwill are generally not tax deductible and will result in an increased effective income tax rate in the quarter the impairment is recorded. Amortization expense associated with acquired intangible assets is generally not tax deductible; however, deferred taxes have been recorded for non-deductible amortization expense as part of the purchase price allocation. We have taken into account the allocation of these identified intangibles among different taxing jurisdictions, including those with nominal or zero percent tax rates, in establishing the related deferred tax liabilities. Income tax contingencies existing as of the acquisition dates of the acquired companies are evaluated quarterly and any adjustments are recorded as an adjustment to goodwill.

 

Legal Contingencies

 

We are currently involved in various claims and legal proceedings. Quarterly, we review the status of each significant matter and assess our potential financial exposure. If the potential loss from any claim or legal proceeding is considered probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated, we accrue a liability for the estimated loss. Significant judgment is required in both the determination of probability and the determination as to whether an exposure is reasonably estimable. Because of uncertainties related to these matters, accruals are based only on the best information available at the time. As additional information becomes available, we reassess the potential liability related to our pending claims and litigation and may revise our estimates. Such revisions in the estimates of the potential liabilities could have a material impact on our results of operations and financial position.

 

Stock-Based Compensation

Fiscal 2005 Compared to Fiscal 2004:   Excluding the effect of currency rate fluctuations, the increase in total revenues reflects $685 million associated with PeopleSoft products and services as well as an increase in sales of our products and services resulting from improved sales execution as a result of product specialization, a strengthening in our competitive position and a stronger economy, particularly in the United States. Total revenues were favorably affected by foreign currency rate fluctuations due to a weakening of the United States dollar against certain major international currencies, primarily the Euro, British Pound and Japanese Yen. Excluding the effect of currency rate fluctuations, the Americas contributed 61% to the increase in total revenues, EMEA contributed 27% and Asia Pacific contributed 12%.

 

Excluding the effect of currency rate fluctuations, total operating expenses increased 20%. Operating expenses were unfavorably affected as a result of the weakening of the United States dollar relative to other major international currencies. Operating margins as a percentage of total revenues decreased from 38% to 34%. The decline in operating margins is primarily due to costs incurred as a result of the acquisition of PeopleSoft such as amortization of intangible assets, acquisition related costs,