Microsoft Corp faces a shareholder proposal urging the company to report on the risks associated with providing advanced technology to the oil and gas industry. The proposal, submitted by As You Sow, highlights concerns over Microsoft's partnerships with fossil fuel companies that lack credible net zero commitments, potentially exposing the company to material financial, reputational, and operational risks. Despite Microsoft's public commitment to sustainability and the energy transition, its sale of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) tools for fossil fuel extraction has been criticized for contradicting these commitments and potentially slowing the global shift to renewable energy. The proposal, set for a vote at the annual meeting on December 10, 2024, has been met with opposition from Microsoft...Show More

Microsoft Corp faces a shareholder proposal urging the company to report on the risks associated with providing advanced technology to the oil and gas industry. The proposal, submitted by As You Sow, highlights concerns over Microsoft's partnerships with fossil fuel companies that lack credible net zero commitments, potentially exposing the company to material financial, reputational, and operational risks. Despite Microsoft's public commitment to sustainability and the energy transition, its sale of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) tools for fossil fuel extraction has been criticized for contradicting these commitments and potentially slowing the global shift to renewable energy. The proposal, set for a vote at the annual meeting on December 10, 2024, has been met with opposition from Microsoft's Board of Directors, who argue that their existing Energy Principles and reporting frameworks are sufficient. However, proponents of the proposal assert that the risks are of material importance to shareholders and warrant transparent disclosure. The proposal's supporters also point out that Microsoft's current practices may hinder the energy transition and increase climate-related risks, calling for a 'yes' vote to enhance reporting on the company's exposure to climate-related risks.