Blockchain

Microsoft to Consider Bitcoin Investment in December, Despite Board Opposition

Microsoft, valued at more than $3 trillion, is eyeing the possibility of investing in bitcoin, the world’s largest cryptocy, according to a new filing from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The company will vote on an “assessment in investing in bitcoin” during its December annual meeting. The proposal was floated by the conservative, Project 2025-linked National Center for Public Policy Research. The center labeled bitcoin as an “excellent, if not the best, hedge against inflation” in its rationale for bringing the proposal to the company.

However, Microsoft’s Board of Directors is opposed to December’s potential vote, declaring it “unnecessary” as the firm’s management has “already carefully consider[ed]” the controversial move. “Past evaluations have included bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies among the options considered, and Microsoft continues to monitor trends and developments related to cryptocurrencies to inform future decision making,” the company said about opposing the proposal.

“As the proposal itself notes, volatility is a factor to consider in evaluating cryptocy investments for corporate treasury applications that require stable and predictable investments to ensure liquidity and operational funding. Microsoft has strong and appropriate processes in place to manage and diversify its corporate treasury for the long-term benefit of shareholders and this requested public assessment is unwarranted,” the company added.

On Friday, Michael Saylor, the CEO of MicroStrategy, the largest corporate holder of bitcoin, recommended that Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella get in touch with him for advice on the potential investment: “If you want to make the next trillion dollars for [Microsoft] shareholders, call me.” Shareholders like Vanguard, BlackRock and State Street will be eligible to vote on the proposal in December.

Terron Gold