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Microsoft posted better than expected numbers for the 12th straight quarter on Tuesday evening. These days, strong companies are expected to beat expectations. Microsoft managed to post revenue of $52 billion, up 20% from a year ago. This was the first time that they managed to cross $50 billion for a quarter, which is amazingly fast growth off an already large base.
The Azure web-hosting business was the primary driver, up by 46%, but other divisions also did well. Windows products grew by 25% due to strong computer demand from companies, and LinkedIn showed growth of 37% thanks to very tight labour markets in the northern hemisphere.
Microsoft has many different contributing divisions and with the announcement of the Activision Blizzard purchase, gaming will grow in importance. Microsoft is a well-diversified tech business and one that seems to fly under the radar of most regulators. This one is a strong buy.
