Microsoft Reports 4Q15 Earnings: What's Next? (Continued from Prior Part) Cash, debt, dividends, and cash flow In 4Q15, Microsoft’s (MSFT) cash reserves stood at $96.5 billion. It generated operating cash flow worth $5 billion, as compared to $8.2 billion in 4Q14. Microsoft’s total debt as of 4Q15 increased to $35.3 billion, up from $30.14 billion in 3Q15. In the last couple of quarters, Microsoft’s debt has risen. The company has incurred high debt primarily to fund dividends and share buybacks. Cash parked overseas exposes Microsoft to macroeconomic challenges... More