Microsoft to invest more than $5.4 billion in Canada to boost AI infrastructure

Investment Overview - Microsoft is investing over C$7.5 billion ($5.42 billion) in Canada over the next two years, contributing to a total estimated investment of C$19 billion between 2023 and 2027 [1][2] Cloud Computing and AI Infrastructure - The investment aims to enhance cloud computing capacity to meet the rising demand for AI workloads, with Microsoft expanding its Azure Local cloud offering in Canada [2][3] - Microsoft is partnering with Canadian AI startup Cohere to integrate advanced AI models into its Azure platform [3] Cybersecurity Initiatives - A dedicated "Threat Intelligence Hub" will be launched in Canada to focus on cybersecurity protection and AI security research, collaborating with the Canadian government to track threat actors and organized crime [3] Global Investment Context - Microsoft has made significant global investments in AI infrastructure, including $10 billion in Portugal and $15 billion in the United Arab Emirates [4] - The company reported a record capital expenditure of nearly $35 billion for its fiscal first quarter in October, with expectations of increased spending [5]