Microsoft's Sales Milestone in the 1980s

Microsoft's transition to a publicly traded company marked a pivotal moment in its growth trajectory. The company went public through an initial public offering (IPO), raising $61 million by offering shares at $21.00 each on the Nasdaq stock exchange. This move not only provided Microsoft with substantial capital to invest in research and development but also increased its visibility in the technology sector. By the end of the first trading day, the stock price had risen to $28.00, reflecting strong investor confidence and interest in the company's future prospects. This IPO was a crucial step in establishing Microsoft as a leader in the software industry, particularly as it began to expand its product offerings and market reach. The influx of capital allowed Microsoft to enhance its product development, including the release of its first version of OS/2 to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), which further solidified its position in the market. The successful IPO also set a precedent for other technology