Microsoft's Q1 results might produce larger-than-normal beat due to Azure growth: analysts

lcva2/iStock Editorial via Getty Images Microsoft's (MSFT [https://seekingalpha.com/symbol/MSFT]) first-quarter fiscal 2027 earnings results appear ripe to produce a larger-than-normal beat due in part to strong growth in its Azure cloud unit, prompting multiple financial firms to increase their price targets on the stock. Shares edged up nearly 1% during Thursday market action. Microsoft shares have surged nearly 40% since releasing its third-quarter results in late July. "We model Azure at 45% CC growth (vs. +44-45% guide, +42% last quarter) and believe the upside should top the outsized ~3% beat last quarter and hit 50%+ levels," said TD Cowen analyst Derrick Wood in an investor note.