"Microsoft Surpasses Apple to Become World's Most Valuable Company Amid AI Advancements and iPhone Sales Woes"

Microsoft stock rose on news of a strategic partnership and expansion of its Copilot AI assistant software, while Apple stock dropped due to worries about iPhone sales weakness in China. Microsoft's market cap surpassed Apple's, with Microsoft's valuation at $2.887 trillion and Apple's at $2.892 trillion. Microsoft's stock advanced 0.8% to 391.63, while Apple's stock retreated more than 2% to 181.51. Microsoft's Copilot AI assistant software is being expanded to reach more users, including a paid version for consumers and small businesses, while Apple is offering discounts on its newer iPhones in China to spur demand.