#3 - Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT)
Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) Another tech stock that deserves to be part of a stable, blue-chip portfolio is Microsoft. During the recent October correction, Microsoft’s stock only dropped 6.6% compared with competitors’ stock that fell over 20%. The stock is up over 20% for the year and has averaged 26% over the last five years. At first glance, investors may look at the dominant market share they receive from their Windows operating system and wonder where is the growth coming from? Microsoft has been less successful at breaking into the mobile arena as Android and iOS systems have made it difficult for Windows to gain traction on mobile devices. However, that doesn't mean Microsoft will be left behind. Mobile computing relies on cloud storage, and Microsoft is well positioned in this space with their cloud operating division, Azure. The company is also aggressively pursuing the nascent artificial intelligence market and making inroads into the Internet of Things. Meanwhile, their Xbox One gaming console remains popular and the company is beginning to make inroads with their Surface brand of laptop/tablet hybrids. Put it all together and you see a company that is becoming much more multi-faceted and well-positioned for growth beyond their Windows operating system.
About Microsoft
Microsoft Corporation develops and supports software, services, devices and solutions worldwide. The Productivity and Business Processes segment offers office, exchange, SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, office 365 Security and Compliance, Microsoft viva, and Microsoft 365 copilot; and office consumer services, such as Microsoft 365 consumer subscriptions, Office licensed on-premises, and other office services.
More- Current Price
- $411.47
- Consensus Rating
- Moderate Buy
- Ratings Breakdown
- 26 Buy Ratings, 3 Hold Ratings, 0 Sell Ratings.
- Consensus Price Target
- $510.96 (24.2% Upside)
