Microsoft Cancels Data Center Leases, Pivots AI Strategy Despite $80B Infrastructure Plans
February 24, 2025
The influx of talent in AI suggests a vibrant future for the industry, with continuous innovation expected.
Nadella has expressed skepticism about the current hype surrounding AI, emphasizing the need for the technology to generate returns before further investments.
CEO Satya Nadella has indicated that demand for AI is expected to grow significantly as it becomes more efficient and accessible.
Microsoft's strategic shift aligns with a broader industry trend of focusing on artificial intelligence as a primary growth area.
However, Microsoft shares have seen a decline of 7% over the past month, reflecting a negative trend in stock performance.
Microsoft's decision to cancel leases contrasts with the overall trend of increasing investments in data centers across the industry.
The company has been a significant player in the AI market since late 2022, holding a 49% profit-sharing agreement with OpenAI.
This cautious approach may lead to further adjustments if AI demand does not meet expectations.
Microsoft Corporation is reportedly canceling key data center leases, indicating a potential shift in its AI strategy.
Despite these cancellations, Microsoft plans to invest over $80 billion in infrastructure for fiscal year 2025, having already allocated $42 billion by February.
The voided leases represent a capacity reduction of 'a couple of hundred megawatts,' according to TD Cowen.
The demand for data centers is critical for AI, which requires substantial computing power, storage, and network speed.
Summary based on 27 sources
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Sources

Forbes • Feb 25, 2025
Is Microsoft Stock Too Expensive To Buy At $400?
TechCrunch • Feb 25, 2025
Microsoft cancels some of its AI data center leases | TechCrunch
Business Insider • Feb 24, 2025
Microsoft stock slips after analysts say it canceled 2 AI data center leases, suggesting possible 'oversupply position'
New York Post • Feb 24, 2025
Microsoft axes data center leases as DeepSeek casts doubt on massive AI spend: report