Microsoft (MSFT) has named technology industry veteran Matt Milton as the new president for its Canadian operations.
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Milton, who is himself Canadian, previously served in senior leadership roles at IBM (IBM) and has spent more than 20 years in technology leadership positions. In a news release, Microsoft said that Milton is committed to innovation and artificial intelligence (AI).
As the new president of Microsoft Canada, Milton has been tasked with focusing on accelerating Canada’s leadership in the digital economy and ensuring Microsoft continues to lead as a trusted partner to Canadian organizations and businesses. This includes advancing the adoption of AI, expanding access to digital skills, and supporting Canadian innovation.
Tense Times
Microsoft has had a presence in Canada for 40 years. The Seattle-based technology giant currently has 5,300 employees in the country and 17,400 partners using its technology. It estimates that it contributes $60 billion to Canada’s economy each year.
Microsoft also notes that since 2023 it has invested more than $828 million to expand its Azure public cloud and AI infrastructure in Canada. However, Milton takes over at a tense time in U.S.-Canada relations with a trade skirmish underway and U.S. President Donald Trump threatening to make Canada the “51st state.”
Is MSFT Stock a Buy?
Microsoft’s stock has a consensus Strong Buy rating among 35 Wall Street analysts. That rating is based on 34 Buy and one Hold recommendations issued in the last three months. The average price target on MSFT stock of $628.05 implies 22.07% upside from current levels.
