The value of Microsoft, the American technology giant, surged to a market capitalization of three trillion dollars for the first time, edging close to its rival Apple. Reuters reported this milestone, underscoring a pivotal moment in the tech sector.
Microsoft shares climbed 1.7% to 405.63 dollars per share, pushing the overall value above the 3 trillion threshold. In contrast, Apple slipped 0.35% to 194.82 dollars, leaving its market cap at about 3.01 trillion dollars.
The ascent reflects Microsoft’s strengthened position in the generative AI arena, where it has invested heavily in OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT. This strategic focus has helped the company expand its footprint across several core platforms and services, contributing to its broader market leadership among major IT players.
With the backing of OpenAI, Microsoft has rolled out updated versions of flagship products, including Bing, its search engine, which is positioned to compete more aggressively with Google. The advancements aim to enhance user experience, improve answer quality, and offer integrated AI capabilities across apps and services.
Apple faces softer demand for iPhones, particularly in key markets like China, where intense competition from Huawei and other brands prompts promotional discounts and product adjustments to sustain momentum against rivals.
Earlier in the year, Microsoft briefly held the title of the most valuable company in the world, a reflection of its evolving AI strategy and diversified software ecosystem. The current trajectory illustrates how market sentiment reacts to AI-driven innovation, hardware, and software monetization strategies across the tech landscape. [Citation: Reuters]