MICROSOFT (MSFT) Stocks
Overview
Microsoft Corporation is a leading multinational technology company founded in 1975 and headquartered in Redmond, Washington. It develops, licenses, and sells software, hardware, and consumer electronics. Key products include the Windows operating system, Microsoft Office Suite, Edge and Internet Explorer browsers, Surface computers, and Xbox consoles.
As of 2016, Microsoft is the largest software maker by revenue and employs around 135,000 people.
Key Highlights
“Microsoft” combines “microcomputer” and “software.” Founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in April 1975, the company initially developed BASIC interpreters for the Altair 8800. By the mid-1980s, it dominated the personal computer operating system market with MS-DOS and later Windows. Its 1986 IPO created three billionaires among its employees.
In the 1990s, Microsoft diversified through acquisitions, purchasing LinkedIn for $26.2 billion and Skype for $8.5 billion. By 2015, it led in office software but faced competition from Android. The company expanded into digital services (MSN), search (Bing), cloud computing (Azure), and mixed reality (HoloLens).
In 2008, Microsoft acquired Danger Inc., shifting towards devices and services. The Microsoft Surface tablets launched in 2012, followed by Microsoft Mobile after buying Nokia’s division. However, by 2014, the focus shifted back to cloud computing.
In 2018, Microsoft surpassed Apple as the world’s most valuable publicly traded company and became the third U.S. company to reach a $1 trillion valuation in April 2019. In the 2018 Fortune 500, it ranked No. 30 in U.S. corporate revenue.
In May 2019, Microsoft announced its first Africa Development Center in Kenya and Nigeria, aiming to hire 100 engineers by year-end and expand to 500 by 2025.
Vision and Values
Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and organization to achieve more, supported by over a thousand researchers developing innovative products. The company values diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment where all contributions enhance creativity.
Committed to sustainability, Microsoft has operated carbon neutral since 2012 and aims to reduce its global emissions through an internal carbon tax and new cloud tools. Additionally, it has purchased over 1.4 gigawatts of renewable wind and solar energy to power its data centers and operations.
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Market Performance
Microsoft Corporation trades on the NYSE under the symbol “MSFT.” In 2018, the company reported revenue of $110.36 billion, an operating income of $35.05 billion, and a net income of $16.57 billion. Its total assets were valued at $258.84 billion, with total equity at $82.71 billion.
Buy Microsoft Stocks/Shares
Before buying Microsoft stock, consider these steps:
Step 1: Research
Conduct thorough research on Microsoft, ensuring its values align with your investment goals. Familiarize yourself with the company’s history, leadership, and market performance, and review its financial reports. Consulting a brokerage firm can help assess how this investment fits your portfolio.
Step 2: Calculate Investment Amount
Monitor your total investment to maintain portfolio balance. Multiply the number of shares by the current market price to determine your investment. For example, 100 shares at $5 each totals $500.
Step 3: Choose Order Type
Select an order type: market, limit, stop, or buy/sell stop order. Understand the pros and cons of each to align with your investment objectives.
Step 4: Open a Brokerage Account
A brokerage account offers flexibility compared to retirement accounts, with no contribution limits and easier withdrawals. It’s ideal for medium-term investment goals and can supplement emergency savings.
Step 5: Commit and Purchase
Finally, commit to the investment. Regularly monitor the stock’s value and dividends to ensure a positive return. You are now a proud owner of Microsoft shares!
In Conclusion
Investing in Microsoft stock involves careful consideration and strategic steps. Start with thorough research to ensure alignment with your investment goals, calculate your investment amount to maintain portfolio balance, and choose the appropriate order type for your purchase. Open a flexible brokerage account for greater control over your investments.
Finally, commit to your investment and regularly monitor its performance. With these steps, you can confidently add Microsoft shares to your portfolio.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Microsoft Corporation?
Microsoft is a leading technology company known for its software products, including Windows and Office, as well as hardware like Surface devices and Xbox consoles.
How can I buy Microsoft stock?
You can purchase Microsoft shares through a brokerage account by placing a market or limit order.
What is the ticker symbol for Microsoft?
Microsoft trades under the ticker symbol “MSFT” on the New York Stock Exchange.
What factors should I consider before investing?
Consider the company’s financial health, market performance, alignment with your investment strategy, and overall portfolio balance.
How do I calculate how much to invest?
Multiply the number of shares you want to buy by the current market price to determine your total investment.
What types of stock orders can I place?
You can place market orders, limit orders, stop orders, or buy/sell stop orders, each with different implications for execution and price.
What are the benefits of a brokerage account?
A brokerage account offers flexibility, no contribution limits, and the ability to withdraw funds at any time, making it suitable for various investment goals.
How can I track my investment in Microsoft?
Regularly monitor the stock price through financial news websites, brokerage platforms, or stock tracking apps.
Does Microsoft pay dividends?
Yes, Microsoft has a history of paying dividends, which can provide additional income from your investment.
What should I do if I want to sell my Microsoft shares?
If you decide to sell, place an order through your brokerage account, choosing the type of order that best fits your strategy.