PS5 Sales Jump 43% in the US in September 2026 While Xbox Hardware Sales Hit New Lows

Russia's Roskomnadzor added Apple and Microsoft to its register of information disseminators. The companies must now store user data and messages in Russia for extended periods. Apple is listed as a software provider, while Microsoft is described as an ecosystem of software, hardware, and cloud services.

Microsoft (MSFT) reported Q1 revenue of ~$90.66–90.68B and EPS of ~$4.72, with Azure revenue at ~$33.06B. The company announced a voluntary exit program for ~60,000 roles. Azure growth is expected at 44–45% CC for Sept, with cash flow >$8B. MSFT restated Azure revenue for fiscal 2025 and 2026 under a new disclosure framework. Options imply a ~5% move for MSFT by week's end around its quarterly report.

SK Hynix forecasts a structural memory supply shortage until 2030, driven by high demand from AI data centers. This is expected to keep memory costs elevated, impacting console and gaming PC markets. Companies like Valve, Sony, and Nintendo have already raised prices due to these pressures.

Microsoft is offering about 60,000 employees in select roles and countries a voluntary exit program with financial support, as it adapts its workforce for AI-focused priorities. The program is voluntary and varies by country, with eligible employees having until early December to decide. Microsoft has also made conventional job cuts this year, totaling about 4,800 layoffs in July.

Nvidia and AMD invested $3B and $1B respectively in Meta's AI infrastructure expansion. Microsoft offered voluntary buyouts to 60,000 employees amid $175B AI investment plans. Gold prices rose 1.1% to $4,060.80/oz as oil fell on Middle East peace hopes.

Microsoft is offering voluntary buyouts to 60,000 employees, over a quarter of its global workforce, to control costs and fund AI ambitions. The company forecasts $175B in capital expenditures for 2026. Eligible employees include those working on AI projects like Copilot, as well as staff in finance, HR, Xbox, and Windows + Devices. Microsoft aims to support employees considering leaving and help teams adapt to changing needs.