Microsoft Corp - MSFT STOCK NEWS

Microsoft Corp. will release its fiscal year 2022 first-quarter financial results on October 26, 2021, after market close. The results will be available on the Microsoft Investor Relations website. A live webcast of the earnings conference call is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Pacific Time on the same day. This announcement highlights Microsoft's commitment to transparency and engagement with its investors as it continues to empower organizations through digital transformation.

Microsoft has launched the Accelerate Miami-Dade program aimed at enhancing digital skills and employment opportunities for Miami-Dade residents. This initiative, developed in partnership with local organizations, focuses on bridging the digital divide and supporting equitable hiring amid the ongoing economic recovery from COVID-19. Participants will gain access to tailored training programs and job placement resources. The program is part of Microsoft's broader global skills initiative, targeting communities affected by unemployment and racial inequities.

Microsoft launched Accelerate Chicago on October 1, 2021, aiming to connect 300,000 residents with digital skills training and employment opportunities. This initiative addresses the digital skills divide exacerbated by COVID-19 and promotes equitable hiring. Collaborating with local partners, Microsoft provides tailored programs to uplift communities most affected by job losses. The project is part of Microsoft's broader global skills initiative, seeking to assist 250,000 companies in making skills-based hires in 2021, thus fostering economic recovery and resilience.

Microsoft has announced a new multiyear commitment to enhance the cyber insurance industry through its security solutions. This partnership with At-Bay facilitates data-driven cyber insurance products. Customers using Microsoft 365 can qualify for savings on At-Bay insurance premiums by implementing key security measures such as multifactor authentication. As a result, insured businesses are reportedly seven times less likely to face ransomware incidents, driving urgency for improved digital security.

Microsoft Corp. announced a quarterly dividend of $0.62 per share, representing an 11% increase over the prior quarter. This dividend, payable on Dec. 9, 2021, rewards shareholders with an enhanced return on investment. Additionally, the company approved a new $60 billion share repurchase program, aimed at further boosting shareholder value without an expiration date. Brad Smith has been appointed as the new president and vice chair. The 2021 Annual Shareholders Meeting is set for Nov. 30, 2021.

On September 13, 2021, Microsoft announced a major expansion of its Technology Education and Literacy in Schools (TEALS) program to four high schools in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, and to 252 U.S. high schools across 18 cities. This marks the largest expansion since TEALS began in 2009. The program aims to enhance access to computer science education, translating the English curriculum into Spanish for the first time. Over the next five years, TEALS will impact 640 students and train teachers with volunteer support, aiming to improve educational equity in tech fields.

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) announced on August 23, 2021, its collaboration with Accenture (NYSE: ACN) and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) to create a pioneering technology platform for monitoring methane emissions from natural gas distribution systems. This cloud-hosted platform will enable real-time data collection and advanced leak detection using satellites and ground sensors. The initiative aims to meet Duke Energy's goal of net-zero methane emissions by 2030. Implementation of the platform is expected by October 2021, with satellite captures starting in Greenville, S.C., this August.

On August 10, 2021, Special Olympics, in partnership with Microsoft, announced the inaugural esports experience Gaming for Inclusion, set for September 12-14. Athletes will compete in Rocket League, Madden NFL 22, and Forza Motorsport 7 on Xbox, culminating in a celebrity showcase on September 18. This initiative follows the successful Xbox Virtual Gaming Event in May 2020, which received an award for its impact during the pandemic. The partnership aims to foster inclusion through esports, expanding access for athletes of all abilities.

Microsoft Corp. announced the availability of its fiscal year 2021 fourth-quarter financial results on its Investor Relations website. For detailed earnings, investors can access the press release here. A conference call is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Pacific Time, with a live webcast also available on the Investor Relations site. Microsoft aims to enhance digital transformation through its cloud and edge technologies, empowering individuals and organizations globally.