BlackRock's Influence on Microsoft and MicroStrategy's Bitcoin Proposal

According to Odaily, Bitcoin advocate and Stanford University mathematics Ph.D. Fred Krueger recently highlighted on X that BlackRock holds a 7% stake in Microsoft (MSFT), second only to Vanguard, and an 8% stake in MicroStrategy (MSTR). These shareholders are set to vote on Monday on whether the company should explore investing in Bitcoin. As a significant shareholder in Microsoft, BlackRock typically votes its shares at shareholder meetings. Being one of the largest asset management firms, BlackRock actively participates in the governance of its investment companies. They exercise their voting rights on various issues, such as electing board members, executive compensation, mergers and acquisitions, and other corporate policies. Previously, Microsoft listed issues to be discussed at the next shareholder meeting in a filing with the U.S. SEC. One proposal suggests that the company should study Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation and other macroeconomic impacts. The document shows that Microsoft's board recommends shareholders vote against the proposal, stating that Microsoft has already “carefully considered this issue.” The statement reads: “Past evaluations have included Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies as options, and Microsoft will continue to monitor trends and developments related to cryptocurrencies to inform future decisions. As the proposal itself notes, volatility is a consideration in evaluating cryptocurrency investments, which require stable and predictable investments for corporate financial applications to ensure liquidity and operational funding. Microsoft has established robust and appropriate processes to manage and diversify its corporate finances to benefit shareholders in the long term, making this request for a public evaluation unwarranted.” Following this, MicroStrategy founder Michael Saylor posted on X, addressing Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, saying: “Want to earn the next trillion dollars for shareholders? Call me.”