Why Microsoft Stock Topped the Market Today

What happened

A smart push into artificial intelligence (AI) was benefiting Microsoft (MSFT 1.99%) and its shareholders on Wednesday. A business the tech company has placed a bet on announced a move aimed at capitalizing on its famous innovation, and investors were guardedly optimistic about that development.

So what

Arguably the most high-profile AI application on the scene today, ChatGPT is going commercial. OpenAI, the platform’s developer, announced on its official blog that it’s launching a pilot subscription plan called ChatGPT plus. Users who pay $20 per month will receive general and unfettered access to ChatGPT, even at peak times. OpenAI also promises faster response times and priority access to new features and upgrades in the system.

ChatGPT plus is now open for customers located in the U.S. OpenAI added that it will start inviting individuals on the service’s waitlist in the coming weeks. It didn’t get more specific about timing. 

“We love our free users and will continue to offer free access to ChatGPT,” it added. “By offering this subscription pricing, we will be able to help support free access availability to as many people as possible.”

Now what

All this directly affects Microsoft, even if it hasn’t yet had a significant impact. The tech giant is a key investor in OpenAI, having provided three rounds of investment into its business. The company has been coy about how much it’s spent and whether this gives it an ownership stake of any meaningful size.

Regardless, it’s clear that AI is one of Microsoft’s many ambitions. By being directly invested in OpenAI, it’s backing a prize horse in the race.

Eric Volkman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Microsoft. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.