Microsoft CorporationEarnings preview with options pricing a 7% move; focus on Azure/AI returns and spending concerns.

Microsoft is set to report fiscal fourth-quarter results on July 29, with the options market pricing in a 7.24% move in the stock. Analysts expect earnings of $4.24 per share, up 16% from a year ago, on revenue of $87.62 billion, a nearly 15% increase. Wall Street will focus on Azure growth, AI service demand, and Copilot adoption, while seeking clarity on returns from heavy data center and AI investments. Bernstein analyst Mark Moerdler reiterated a Buy rating with a $646 price target, and Benchmark analyst Yi Fu Lee also maintained a Buy rating with a $525 target. Microsoft shares have fallen 21% this year amid spending concerns and potential disruption to traditional software businesses.
Microsoft CorporationEarnings preview with options pricing a 7% move; focus on Azure/AI returns and spending concerns.