Microsoft is Creating a $700 Billion Moat With Its AI Spend Through 2030 - 24/7 Wall St. Microsoft is Creating a $700 Billion Moat With Its AI Spend Through 2030 Microsoft keeps raising its dividend, growing Azure at record pace, and pouring tens of billions into data centers every quarter. The question is whether that spending builds an unbreakable lead or sets up a very expensive stumble. By Alex Sirois Published October 22, 2026, 7:15am ET · 3 min read Quick Read The iconic Microsoft logo adorns a modern ...