Income Taxes

The following table provides details of income taxes (in millions, except percentages):



	Three Months Ended
	October 28, 2017			October 29, 2016
Income before provision for income taxes	$	2,962		$	2,953
Provision for income taxes	$	568		$	631
Effective tax rate	19.2		%	21.4		%

As of October 28, 2017, the Company had $2.1 billion of unrecognized tax benefit, of which $1.5 billion, if recognized, would favorably impact the effective tax rate. The Company regularly engages in discussions and negotiations with tax authorities regarding tax matters in various jurisdictions. The Company believes it is reasonably possible that certain federal, foreign and state tax matters may be concluded in the next 12 months. Specific positions that may be resolved include issues involving transfer pricing and various other matters. The Company estimates that the unrecognized tax benefits at October 28, 2017 could be reduced by approximately $100 million in the next 12 months.