The Dividend Daily

Computer giant Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) is throwing its support behind a Massachusetts bill that could have major consequences for Google (GOOG).

The bill in question would restrict companies’ ability to gather commercial data from computers being used by children at public schools. Specifically, it would prevent companies that provide schools with cloud computing services, such as basic email, from using information collected from children for advertising purposes.

The bill could be particularly important for Microsoft since Google’s suite of web-based applications, including email, competes with Microsoft’s lucrative Office product offerings.

Microsoft and Google have engaged in several legal battles over the years; the Massachusetts bill focuses on a very specific area of the rivalry, but could have an impact on the demand for the services offered by each.

The Bottom Line
Microsoft shares currently offer a dividend yield of 3.28%, based on Wednesday’s closing price of $28.09 and an annual payout of $0.92.

Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)  is not recommended at this time, holding a Dividend.com DARS™ Rating of 3.4 out of 5 stars.

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