Market Performance: January 28, 2024.

Microsoft's early lead in artificial intelligence has the software heavyweight's stock market value poised to pull decisively ahead of Apple's over the next five years, 13 institutional investors unanimously agreed ahead of the tech titans' quarterly results this week.

Microsoft's (MSFT.O), opens new tab shares have surged 7% so far in 2024, recently sending its stock market value above $3 trillion and dethroning Apple (AAPL.O), opens new tab as the world's most valuable company. As of Friday, the Redmond, Washington software maker's market capitalization was a few billion dollars above Apple's.

Asked which would be more valuable five years from now, all 13 investments strategists and portfolio managers consulted by Reuters last week said they expect Microsoft to outpace Apple.

Share prices and valuations could shift this week as Microsoft reports its quarterly results on Tuesday, followed by Apple on Thursday. In the long term, though, all the investors consulted by Reuters said Microsoft's recent successes in generative AI give it a powerful advantage over Apple.

Before you file your taxes, read these tips

Believe it or not, it’s time to file your taxes again. WCNC Charlotte is helping you get ahead before you file so you’re not left asking, where's the money? The IRS officially starts accepting tax returns Feb. 5. Chief tax information officer with Jackson Hewitt Mark Steber said three-out-of-four taxpayers will probably get a refund this year.

“There's so many bad people out there stealing data, buying it on the dark web [and] data breaches," he explained. "If you file your taxes early, and lock up your data for yourself, your spouse, or dependents, some bad person can't swoop in front of you, file a tax return, and steal your refund." And if you’re worried you might owe this year, Steber said you should still file early. In fact, you don’t actually have to pay until the April 15 deadline.

"If you owe, no harm, no foul, you don't have to write that check," he said. "You don't have to charge that credit card, you don't have to pull it out of your checking savings account until midnight or by midnight on April 15 tax day."

Steber said if you choose to do your taxes yourself this year, you should still have a competent tax pro in your contact list that you can bounce ideas off of.

Are You Ready to Unlock Money Making Ideas with AI ?

In today’s fast-paced digital world, AI is not just a buzzword; it’s a goldmine of opportunities. If you’re looking to turn the AI wave into a lucrative venture, you’re in the right place.

Content Creation Revolutionized by AI The first method is leveraging AI for content creation on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.

Find Your Niche: Use AI tools like ChatGPT to discover a profitable niche that resonates with you. The ‘making money online’ niche is a hot pick, but the sky’s the limit.

Scripting with AI: Once you’ve nailed your niche, use AI for scripting. Remember, adding your personal touch makes your content stand out. -

Voiceovers and Editing: Not confident about your voice? AI-generated voices are here to save the day. While AI can assist in editing, a personal touch in this area can make a significant difference.

Crafting Online Courses with AI Assistance You don’t need to be an expert in a field to create a successful online course. AI can be your ally in this journey:

Course Development: Use AI to develop your course outline and script. Incorporate relevant images and a natural-sounding voiceover, either human or AI-generated.

Marketing Your Course: The real challenge lies in marketing. AI can help identify your target audience and tailor your marketing strategy accordingly.

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