Microsoft: Horan Securities Reduces Stake by 1.4% during Q3
Horan Securities Inc., a financial firm, has recently reduced its stake in Microsoft Corp by 1.4% during the third quarter, according to the latest filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm now owns 6,370 shares of the tech giant, representing 1.1% of its portfolio. This move places Microsoft as the firm's 8th largest holding. The total value of Horan Securities Inc.'s holdings in Microsoft is reported to be $2,011,000.
Institutional Investors and Hedge Funds Adjust Positions
The distribution of Microsoft's shares among various institutional investors and hedge funds has been significantly influenced by recent activity in the market. Several financial entities have acquired new positions in the company and increased existing ones. Currently, institutional investors and hedge funds collectively own 69.20% of Microsoft's stock.
Microsoft Stock Sees 0.6% Decrease
Microsoft's stock price saw a decrease of 0.6% on Friday, opening at $404.06. With a market capitalization of $3.00 trillion, the company boasts a price-to-earnings ratio of 36.53 and a beta of 0.90. The 50-day simple moving average for Microsoft is reported at $389.11, with a 200-day simple moving average of $356.59. Microsoft has seen a yearly low of $245.61 and a high of $420.82. The company's debt-to-equity ratio stands at 0.19, with a quick ratio of 1.20 and a current ratio of 1.22.
Microsoft Outperforms Expectations with Quarterly Earnings
In its recent quarterly earnings report, Microsoft surpassed analysts' expectations with an earnings per share (EPS) of $2.93, exceeding estimates by $0.17. The company recorded $62.02 billion in revenue for the quarter, surpassing expectations of $61.14 billion. Microsoft's revenue grew by 17.6% year-over-year. Analysts project an EPS of 11.6 for the current year.
Quarterly Dividend Payment Announced
Microsoft has announced a quarterly dividend payment of $0.75 per share, payable on March 14 to stockholders recorded as of February 15. The dividend yield stands at 0.74%, with a dividend payout ratio (DPR) of 27.12%.
Positive Sentiment from Analysts
Analysts have provided various ratings for Microsoft, with a majority suggesting a "buy." Several analyst reports have also adjusted price targets, reflecting positive sentiment towards the company's stock value and performance.
Insider Transactions and Ownership
Insider transactions in Microsoft included significant sales by Executive Vice President Kathleen T. Hogan and insider Bradford L. Smith, as disclosed in legal filings. Corporate insiders currently own approximately 0.03% of Microsoft's stock.
Microsoft: A Global Leader in Software and Technology Solutions
Microsoft Corporation is globally recognized for its diverse range of software, services, devices, and solutions. It caters to various aspects of productivity, business processes, and more.
Analyst comment
Positive news. Microsoft’s stock price decreased slightly, but the company reported strong quarterly earnings, exceeding expectations. Analysts recommend buying Microsoft stock and have adjusted price targets upward. The market for Microsoft is expected to remain stable or potentially increase in value.
