Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) shareholders will soon vote on whether to add Bitcoin to the company’s balance sheet, a decision likely to impact the price of Bitcoin.
The tech giant will hold its annual shareholders’ meeting virtually on December 10, starting at 8:30 a.m. Pacific Time. In addition to electing directors, reviewing the current corporate strategy, and discussing financial goals, shareholders face a noteworthy decision: whether Bitcoin should be included in Microsoft’s corporate balance sheet. The proposal, introduced by the think tank National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR), encourages Microsoft to diversify its investment strategy with Bitcoin.
Board Recommends Rejection
Microsoft’s board advises shareholders to vote against the proposal, arguing that the company already closely monitors cryptocurrency through its in-house teams. The board suggests focusing on less volatile assets to minimize potential economic losses and counteract inflation effects.
Potential External Influence?
Some question whether external influence may come into play, as BlackRock (NYSE:BLK), the world’s largest asset manager and Microsoft’s second-largest shareholder with a 7.1% stake, may have a vested interest in advancing Bitcoin adoption. BlackRock holds over $20 billion in Bitcoin through its own Bitcoin ETF. Similarly, Fidelity—a major Microsoft shareholder with multiple crypto-based investment funds—could share this interest.
Market Impact Anticipated
If shareholders vote in favor of adding Bitcoin to Microsoft’s balance sheet, it could have a significant ripple effect on other tech companies—and, naturally, Bitcoin’s price. With a market capitalization of approximately $3.2 trillion, Microsoft stands as one of the world’s most valuable companies. Approval would position the software giant as a major Bitcoin investor, possibly sparking a wave of adoption across the tech sector. This decision could reshape the perception of the cryptocurrency sector, giving it a new standing in the broader investment landscape.
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