Microsoft surpassed Apple to become the world’s most valuable publicly traded company by market capitalization in January 2024.
Microsoft briefly took the top position in January 2024 as investors responded to its cloud-computing growth and artificial-intelligence strategy. Its partnership with OpenAI and integration of AI features into products increased attention to the company’s future earnings potential.
Microsoft’s principal businesses include Azure cloud services, Windows, Microsoft 365, LinkedIn, Xbox, and enterprise software. The company was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975 and became a public company in 1986.
Apple and Microsoft have repeatedly exchanged the top ranking because their share prices move independently. The title “most valuable” refers to market capitalization, not annual sales, total assets, or the value of a private company.