Netflix, Inc. (NFLX), Microsoft Corporation (MSFT): This Week’s Smartest Stock Moves

It’s no longer about generating licensing revenue from Netflix. Any studio with a serialized drama that is still running on the air owes Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) in a major way for the likely spike in ratings and television ad revenue, giving the leading streaming platform even more leverage in future negotiations.

4. One not so small step for MannKind
Diabetes sufferers tiring of needle pricks may be in luck. Shares of MannKind Corporation (NASDAQ:MNKD) moved higher after encouraging late-stage trial results for its inhalable insulin treatment. Afrezza’s efficacy was generally positive, paving the way for the likelihood of regulatory approval as soon as early next year.

MannKind Corporation (NASDAQ:MNKD) has a volatile trading history as the market assesses its prospects for success and the market for the product. Maybe it’s just me, but I think that any product that replaces a pin prick with an inhaler will be a hit with the masses.

5. Windows watching
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) is ready to give its flagship operating system a new look. The world’s leading software company announced this week that Windows 8.1 — the highly anticipated update to last year’s Windows 8 — will be available on October 18.

It’s clear that customers aren’t exactly wooed by the touch-centric Windows 8, as users have been critical about the learning curve and the removal of the signature “Start” button. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) claims victory in moving a ton of licenses, but PC shipments have fallen every single quarter since its arrival.

Windows 8.1 may not save the day. It may be too late for any operating system that isn’t Android. However, at least Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) is trying. That’s certainly better than rearranging the Titanic’s deck chairs.

The article This Week’s 5 Smartest Stock Moves originally appeared on Fool.com and is written by Rick Munarriz.

Longtime Fool contributor Rick Munarriz owns shares of Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX). The Motley Fool recommends AMC Networks Inc (NASDAQ:AMCX) and Netflix. The Motley Fool owns shares of Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) and Netflix.

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