The year 2017 saw a rise in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Etherum, not for trading but also to be used for other applications as well. Since then many companies have jumped on the cryptocurrency bandwagon and it looks like Microsoft is going to be the latest addition.
https://mspoweruser.com/new-patent-reveals-microsofts-plan-cryptocurrency/
origin - https://www.pipiscrew.com/2020/03/new-patent-reveals-microsofts-plan-for-a-cryptocurrency-with-an-innovative-approach-to-mining/ new-patent-reveals-microsofts-plan-for-a-cryptocurrency-with-an-innovative-approach-to-mining