Microsoft (MSFT) Q3 2026 earnings summary

Executive summary

• Revenue for Q3 FY2026 rose 18% year-over-year to $82.9 billion, driven by strong Microsoft Cloud and AI demand, with Microsoft Cloud revenue up 29% to $54.5 billion and AI business annual run rate surpassing $37 billion, up 123%.

• Net income increased 23% to $31.8 billion, with diluted EPS up 23% to $4.27.

• Operating income rose 20% to $38.4 billion, with margin expansion in Productivity and Intelligent Cloud segments.

• Accelerated innovation and operational efficiency, with significant investments in AI infrastructure and product development.

• Transitioning business models from seat-based to usage-based, especially in AI and Copilot offerings.

Financial highlights

• Gross margin increased 16% to $56.1 billion, but gross margin percentage declined to 68% due to AI infrastructure investments.

• Free cash flow was $15.8 billion; cash flow from operations was $46.7 billion, up 26% year-over-year.

• Capital expenditures were $31.9 billion, with 2/3 for short-lived assets (GPUs, CPUs), up 49% year-over-year, mainly for AI and cloud infrastructure.

• $10.2 billion returned to shareholders via dividends and buybacks.

• Commercial bookings grew 7% excluding OpenAI impact; RPO increased to $627 billion, up 99% year-over-year.

Outlook and guidance

• Q4 revenue expected between $86.7–$87.8 billion, growth of 13–15%.

• CapEx to exceed $40 billion in Q4, with $190 billion planned for calendar 2026, reflecting higher component pricing.

• Microsoft Cloud gross margin percentage expected at 64% in Q4, down year-over-year due to AI investments.

• Double-digit revenue and operating income growth expected for FY 2027.

• Management expects continued investment in cloud and AI infrastructure, with operating costs and capital expenditures rising.