Microsoft Corp - MSFT STOCK NEWS

On Oct. 7, 2020, ZEISS Group partnered with Microsoft to enhance its digital transformation using Azure as its primary cloud platform. This collaboration aims to improve productivity and customer experiences across various sectors, including manufacturing and healthcare. By leveraging Azure's high-performance computing, AI, and IoT services, ZEISS will develop innovative solutions for quality management, semiconductor manufacturing, and healthcare services. This strategic alliance will facilitate seamless integration of digital products, driving operational efficiencies and enhancing patient care while adhering to high security and compliance standards.

On September 22, 2020, Microsoft and Shell announced a strategic alliance to enhance efforts toward achieving net-zero emissions. This collaboration aims to accelerate innovation in decarbonization and support Shell's goal of becoming a net-zero energy business by 2050. Notable plans include Shell supplying Microsoft with renewable energy to meet its 2025 goal of 100% renewable energy usage. Additionally, the partnership will focus on advancing AI solutions and digital tools to help customers manage carbon footprints more effectively.

Microsoft plans to acquire ZeniMax Media, parent of Bethesda Softworks, for $7.5 billion. This acquisition aims to expand Microsoft's gaming portfolio with iconic franchises like The Elder Scrolls and Fallout. By enhancing Xbox Game Pass with Bethesda's titles, Microsoft anticipates boosting its subscriber base, which has surpassed 15 million users. The acquisition is expected to close in 2021 with minimal impact on Microsoft’s operating income for fiscal years 2021 and 2022.

Microsoft Corp. declared a quarterly dividend of $0.56 per share, a 10% increase from the previous quarter's dividend. This dividend is scheduled for payment on Dec. 10, 2020, to shareholders of record as of Nov. 19, 2020, with an ex-dividend date of Nov. 18, 2020. Additionally, the company announced its 2020 Annual Shareholders Meeting will occur on Dec. 2, 2020, and will be hosted virtually by key executives.

On September 15, 2020, bp and Microsoft announced a strategic partnership aimed at advancing digital transformation in energy systems and achieving net zero carbon goals. This collaboration focuses on four main areas: smart cities, clean energy parks, consumer energy insights, and Industrial IoT solutions. Microsoft will continue using Azure for bp's cloud infrastructure, while bp supplies renewable energy to meet Microsoft's goal of 100% renewable energy by 2025. Both companies commit to leveraging their expertise to drive sustainability and reduce carbon emissions.

On August 24, 2020, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner announced an expansion of the digital alliance with Microsoft to enhance economic recovery through the new 'Accelerate' program. This initiative aims to address skill gaps exacerbated by COVID-19, focusing on underserved communities. Microsoft will invest over $1 million to facilitate digital literacy and workforce training, including partnerships with local educational institutions. The collaboration seeks to position Houston as a leader in innovation, AI, and digital equity, supporting both economic development and smart city initiatives.

Universal Filmed Entertainment Group and Microsoft announced a strategic partnership to enhance cloud-based workflows for live-action and animation productions. This collaboration aims to facilitate remote content creation, leveraging Microsoft's Azure platform. The partnership is also a response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, streamlining production efforts across the industry. By integrating DreamWorks Animation's technology with Azure, they plan to improve digital resources and enable efficient collaboration among creatives.

On August 11, 2020, Standard Chartered Bank and Microsoft announced a three-year partnership aimed at advancing the bank's digital transformation through a cloud-first strategy. This collaboration will leverage Microsoft Azure to transition key banking applications to the cloud by 2025, enhancing operational efficiency, agility, and customer service. The initiative includes adopting AI and data analytics to personalize client experiences and improve banking processes. Additionally, Microsoft 365 and Teams will facilitate workplace productivity for over 84,000 employees across 60 markets.

Recorded Future has partnered with Microsoft Azure to enhance security operations for cloud environments. This collaboration allows clients to utilize Recorded Future’s threat intelligence within Microsoft services such as Azure Sentinel and Defender ATP. The integration aims to improve threat detection, prevention, and alert triage, ultimately increasing security efficiency and reducing operational disruptions. Key benefits include a 50% reduction in due diligence time and a 25% improvement in threat visibility. The partnership is designed to empower organizations to adapt swiftly to evolving security challenges.