Microsoft Corp Stock Price, News & Analysis

Microsoft Corp. has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.62 per share, payable on Sept. 8, 2022. Shareholders of record as of Aug. 18, 2022 will receive the dividend, with the ex-dividend date set for Aug. 17, 2022. This announcement reflects Microsoft’s commitment to return value to its shareholders while enhancing its mission to foster digital transformation in the age of intelligent cloud and edge technologies.

On June 8, 2022, Procter & Gamble (PG) and Microsoft (MSFT) announced a multiyear collaboration to enhance digital manufacturing using Microsoft Cloud. The partnership focuses on leveraging the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) to improve product delivery, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. P&G intends to digitize and integrate data from over 100 manufacturing sites, enabling real-time analytics and predictive maintenance. Key benefits include better resource use, increased workforce productivity, and advancements in sustainability efforts through innovative technology integration.

Microsoft has partnered with the Knight Center for Journalism in the Americas to launch a free online course titled 'Digital Storytelling for the Next Generation of Latinx Journalists'. Running from June 20 to July 17, 2022, this initiative aims to empower Latinx Gen Z and Millennial students to excel in the media industry, where they remain underrepresented. The course addresses the critical need for diverse voices in storytelling and equips students with necessary digital skills. Interested participants can apply easily online.

BeeKeeperAI has enhanced its collaboration with Microsoft (MSFT) to improve secure access for algorithm developers and healthcare data stewards via the Azure Marketplace. This partnership leverages zero trust and confidential computing to provide a secure environment for AI development in healthcare. Through this collaboration, they aim to facilitate regulatory approval by allowing algorithm validation against protected datasets without compromising privacy. Additionally, BeeKeeperAI is launching a workshop to guide users on effective validation in this new computing environment.

American Airlines and Microsoft have partnered to enhance travel experiences through Microsoft Azure, streamlining operations for the airline. This collaboration aims to leverage data analytics and AI for efficient gate assignments and improved flight operations. Notably, the intelligent gating program will save over a minute of taxi time per flight, reducing fuel usage and CO2 emissions. The partnership also involves migrating operational workloads to a centralized cloud platform, aiming for cost savings and sustainability. As travel demand recovers, these innovations position American Airlines for a connected future.

On May 2, 2022, Microsoft announced the general availability of Microsoft Defender for Business, a security solution tailored for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). This product aims to enhance endpoint security, addressing the significant threat posed by cyberattacks, especially as 70% of SMBs feel cyber risks are growing. Defender for Business includes features such as automated investigation and remediation, and is available standalone for $3 per user monthly or as part of Microsoft 365 Business Premium. This move reinforces Microsoft's commitment to improving cybersecurity for SMBs.

Activision Blizzard (ATVI) stockholders have overwhelmingly approved Microsoft's (MSFT) acquisition proposal during a Special Meeting, with over 98% in favor. Microsoft announced its intent to acquire Activision Blizzard for $95.00 per share in an all-cash deal on January 18, 2022. The transaction is subject to standard closing conditions and regulatory review, expected to conclude within Microsoft's fiscal year ending June 30, 2023. CEO Bobby Kotick expressed confidence in the deal enhancing value for players and creating a more inclusive workplace.