Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) Shares Rise 1.4% - Time to Buy?

The tech giant's stock price jumped on Thursday, but analysts have mixed views on whether it's a good time to invest.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Microsoft Corporation's (NASDAQ:MSFT) stock price increased by 1.4% during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $410.68 per share. The company saw an increase in trading volume compared to the average session. Wall Street analysts have provided a range of price targets and ratings on the stock, with some maintaining an "outperform" recommendation while others have lowered their price targets.

Why it matters

Microsoft is one of the largest and most influential technology companies in the world, so fluctuations in its stock price are closely watched by investors and the broader market. The company's performance can have significant implications for the tech sector and the overall economy.

The details

Several equity research analysts have recently weighed in on Microsoft shares. Sanford C. Bernstein reaffirmed an "outperform" rating but lowered its price target from $645 to $641. Oppenheimer also reiterated an "outperform" rating on the stock. BMO Capital Markets, on the other hand, dropped its target price from $625 to $575 and maintained an "outperform" rating. New Street Research increased its target from $670 to $675 and kept a "buy" rating.

  • Microsoft's stock price reached a high of $411.61 during mid-day trading on Thursday, March 5, 2026.
  • The stock closed at $405.20 on the previous day, March 4, 2026.

The players

Microsoft Corporation

A global technology company headquartered in Redmond, Washington, founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. Microsoft develops, licenses, and supports a wide range of software products, services, and devices for consumers, enterprises, and governments worldwide.

Sanford C. Bernstein

An equity research firm that has reaffirmed an "outperform" rating on Microsoft shares but lowered its price target.

Oppenheimer

An investment bank that has reiterated an "outperform" rating on Microsoft stock.

BMO Capital Markets

A financial services firm that has dropped its target price on Microsoft shares but maintained an "outperform" rating.

New Street Research

A research firm that has increased its target price on Microsoft and kept a "buy" rating on the stock.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The mixed analyst views on Microsoft's stock price and performance highlight the complexity of the tech giant's business and the broader market conditions. Investors will likely continue to closely monitor the company's financial results, product developments, and strategic initiatives to assess the long-term outlook for the stock.