Microsoft (MSFT): Mizuho Says Channel Checks Remain Strong

Group 1 - Mizuho reduced its price target on Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) to $620 from $640 while maintaining an "Outperform" rating, citing strong channel checks and robust public cloud data with significant AI adoption [1][2] - Citi also lowered its price target on MSFT to $660 from $690, keeping a "Buy" rating, noting mixed signals from reseller surveys and partner checks ahead of Q2 2026 results, while expecting Azure to outperform forecasts [3] - Concerns about AI disruption have led to valuation multiple compressions for software companies, influencing the target reductions by Mizuho [2] Group 2 - Despite the potential of MSFT as an investment, some analysts believe other AI stocks may offer greater upside potential and lower downside risk [4]