Microsoft's cloud computing and artificial intelligence business helped deliver $70.1 billion in sales and boosted profits by 18% for the January-March quarter, a dose of relief for investors during a turbulent time for the tech sector and U.

Microsoft Corp. shares jumped after the company reported stronger-than-expected quarterly sales and profit growth, suggesting customer demand for cloud services has held steady despite a wave of tariffs and economic turbulence.

Shares in social media company Meta Platforms were up more than 4%, after it also beat Wall Street estimates for first-quarter revenue, signaling that its AI-powered tools helped draw advertising dollars despite tariff-related economic uncertainty.

Worry that a slowing economy will derail artificial intelligence-fueled growth this year may take a back seat after Microsoft over-delivered in its latest quarterly earnings report. Related: Surprising GDP report sends stocks on roller coaster ride Microsoft outpaced Wall Street earnings estimates on revenue and profit,