Microsoft Corporation Evolution through Times
Microsoft Corporation (MSFT), a powerhouse in the global corporate scene, has seen its stock market performance closely monitored by investors throughout the years. As the company progressed through several developmental phases, the changes have been mirrored in its stock rates.
Fundamentally established in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, Microsoft originally concentrated on inventing and commercializing personal computer software. The launch of the MS-DOS operating system in 1981 marked the advent of their flagship product. As MS-DOS steadily took the pole position in the PC operating system market, Microsoft stocks began to skyrocket.
Expansion Era and Market Challenges
The decade of the 1990s saw Microsoft diversifying its product offerings to comprise software systems like Windows, the Office productivity suite, and the Internet Explorer web browser. Alongside, the acquisition drive started, including key tech players like LinkedIn and Skype. The era saw a steady climb in Microsoft's stock prices.
However, the 2000s brought a tide of competition from emerging tech giants like Apple and Google. Microsoft's alleged anti-competitive conduct also drew regulatory scrutiny. Consequently, the company's stock value experienced a downturn during this period.
Adapting to New Trends and Technologies
In recent years, Microsoft has realigned its strategic focus towards cloud computing and artificial intelligence. The company has been infusing its resources into nascent technologies, including augmented and virtual reality. As a result, Microsoft's stock rates have seen a positive turnaround in recent years.
Investing in Microsoft: Analysis and Future Projections
Microsoft's stock performance paints a robust picture presently, with shares trading at an all-time high. With forecasters envisioning a continued ascending trajectory, Microsoft's strategic investment in growth areas like cloud computing and AI can yield handsome dividends. New technology investments, like AR and VR, can potentially fuel further expansion in its stock value.
Several experts endorse Microsoft as a prudent investment choice, highlighting factors including strong financial records, growth-oriented approach and futuristic technology investments.
Among these experts, Morgan Stanley analyst Doug Anmuth maintains a "Buy" status on Microsoft's stock, with a price target of $150, citing the company's poised position to grow in the cloud and business markets.
Adding to this is Brad Smith, Microsoft's own President and Chief Legal Officer, who projects the company's plans to double its size in the next five years, primarily dictated by increased emphasis towards cloud computing and artificial intelligence.
Final Takeaway
Overall, Microsoft Corporation's stock market presence remains sturdy, and the forward path envisaged is that of sustained growth. Aiding the growth, the company's pioneering endeavours in areas like cloud computing and artificial intelligence have the potential to inflate its stock values in the future.