Microsoft Corporation Stock Forecast:
According to 38 analysts, the average target price for Microsoft Corporation stock over the next 12 months is USD 311.55. The average analyst rating for Microsoft Corporation is Strong Buy. Stock Target Advisor‘s analysis of the stock is also Bullish, based on 11 positive signals and 4 negative signals. At the last closing, Microsoft Corporation’s stock price was USD 333.68, representing a change of +0.75% over the past week, +7.41% over the past month, and +24.16% over the last year.
Stock Overvalued
Microsoft’s stock is considered to be almost 10 percent overvalued based on the comparison between the average 12-month target price and its current trading price. The average 12-month target price, as estimated by analysts, stands at $311.55, while the stock is currently trading at $333.68.
The valuation of a stock is typically based on various factors such as the company’s financial performance, growth prospects, industry trends, and market conditions. Analysts perform detailed analysis and consider these factors to determine the fair value of a stock. They often use a range of valuation methods, including discounted cash flow analysis, price-to-earnings ratios, and comparison with peers in the industry.
In this case, the average 12-month target price of $311.55 represents the price level that analysts believe the stock should reach over the next year based on their assessment of Microsoft’s fundamentals and market conditions. However, the current trading price of $333.68 is higher than this target, suggesting that the stock is trading at a premium.
When analysts consider a stock to be overvalued, it typically implies that the market price has exceeded the perceived intrinsic value of the stock. This may suggest that investors are overly optimistic about the company’s future prospects, leading to a higher stock price that may not be sustainable in the long run. It could also indicate a potential correction or adjustment in the stock’s price to align with its intrinsic value.
Microsoft Corp News:
Microsoft Corp has reached a settlement with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in a case involving the illegal collection of personal information from children without parental consent. The company has agreed to pay a $20 million settlement after being charged with violating the U.S. Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). The FTC accused Microsoft of collecting and retaining personal information from children who signed up for its Xbox gaming system without notifying their parents or obtaining proper consent.
The FTC stated in a press release that Microsoft had violated COPPA regulations by unlawfully gathering personal data from underage users without the necessary parental consent. The company failed to inform parents about the data collection practices and neglected to seek their permission before obtaining and retaining children’s personal information. The act requires online platforms to prioritize the privacy and safety of children under the age of 13, safeguarding their personal data from unauthorized use or disclosure.
As part of the settlement, Microsoft has agreed to take corrective actions to enhance privacy protections for child users of its Xbox system. The company will extend COPPA protections to third-party gaming publishers with whom it shares children’s data, ensuring that these entities also comply with the necessary privacy requirements. The intention behind this requirement is to create a safer environment for children participating in online gaming and to prevent any potential misuse or mishandling of their personal information.
In response to the settlement, a spokesperson from Microsoft emphasized the company’s commitment to complying with the FTC’s order. Microsoft acknowledged the importance of protecting the privacy of its users, especially children, and expressed its willingness to implement necessary measures to improve privacy protections across its platforms. The company’s response indicates its recognition of the severity of the allegations and the need to rectify the situation promptly.
