Microsoft Corp - MSFT STOCK NEWS

Microsoft has announced its plan to acquire Activision Blizzard for $95.00 per share, totaling $68.7 billion. This acquisition aims to bolster Microsoft's gaming division across mobile, PC, console, and cloud, further enhancing its position as the world's third-largest gaming company by revenue. The deal includes renowned franchises like Warcraft, Diablo, Overwatch, Call of Duty, and Candy Crush. The merger is set to close in fiscal year 2023 and is expected to boost non-GAAP earnings per share.

On January 13, 2022, Microsoft and several prominent organizations established the Artificial Intelligence Industry Innovation Coalition (AI3C) to enhance healthcare through AI. The coalition includes major entities like the Brookings Institution and Cleveland Clinic, aimed at overcoming barriers in AI adoption. Key objectives include accelerating AI innovation, showcasing AI tools, and transforming the AI workforce. The coalition will regularly meet to assess progress and share recommendations on responsible AI usage and health equity. More details will be released later in the year.

On January 12, 2022, Microsoft released the Work Trend Index Special Report focusing on the needs of 2 billion frontline workers, who make up 80% of the global workforce. The report highlights the shift in workplace culture, noting a 400% growth in Teams usage among frontline workers since 2020. Microsoft announced new features in Teams and Viva, enhancing worker experience through partnerships, including integration with Zebra Technologies, and introduced the Microsoft Cloud for Retail set to launch on February 1.

Microsoft Corp. will release its fiscal year 2022 second-quarter financial results on January 25, 2022, after market close. The report will be accessible on the Microsoft Investor Relations website. A live webcast of the earnings conference call is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Pacific Time. This announcement underlines Microsoft's commitment to transparency and engagement with shareholders as it navigates the evolving landscape of digital transformation.

Wejo Group Limited (NASDAQ: WEJO) announced its participation in two upcoming investor conferences on January 11 and January 25, 2022. CEO Richard Barlow and CFO John Maxwell will present Wejo's automotive data analytics innovations and discuss partnerships with Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) and Palantir (NYSE: PLTR). These collaborations enhance data management and cloud communication for connected vehicles. Wejo aims to revolutionize mobility by analyzing data from approximately 12 million vehicles globally. A webcast of the Needham Conference presentation will be available on Wejo's investor relations website.

OPI announced a collaboration with Xbox, launching a vibrant nail polish collection inspired by gaming. Available February 1, 2022, the 12 shades include unique formulas that embody popular video game aesthetics, with shades such as 'Achievement Unlocked' and 'Pixel Dust'. Each purchase grants access to exclusive in-game content for 'Halo Infinite' and 'Forza Horizon 5'. The collection aims to inspire creativity and embrace the gaming culture, with OPI retailing nail lacquers for $10.50 and Infinite Shine colors for $13.00 at select retailers and online platforms.

Procore Technologies has appointed Erin Chapple, a Microsoft Executive, to its Board of Directors. Chapple, currently the Corporate Vice President of Azure Core at Microsoft, brings over two decades of experience in technology. She aims to enhance Procore's platform, facilitating better collaboration in the construction industry. Procore manages over 1 million projects with a construction volume exceeding $1 trillion. The addition of Chapple is expected to strengthen Procore's strategic roadmap and innovation in construction management.

DXC Technology has secured a multiyear renewal agreement with Copa Airlines to modernize its legacy Passenger Service System (PSS) by migrating it to the public cloud. This transition, supported by Microsoft, aims to enhance Copa's digital transformation, providing a scalable and efficient IT platform without disrupting business operations. The project promises a nearly 99.5% automated migration rate and aims to significantly improve integration and reduce costs. Copa Airlines is recognized for its excellent service and punctuality across Latin America.

Microsoft Corp. has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.62 per share, set to be paid on March 10, 2022. Shareholders of record as of February 17, 2022 will be eligible, with the ex-dividend date on February 16, 2022. This announcement reinforces the company's commitment to returning value to shareholders as it continues to lead in digital transformation through its cloud and edge services.