Netflix stock rises on Microsoft acquisition rumor | Internet & Media - CNET News

I suppose there's a plausible permutation for this, if Microsoft is intent on full-spectrum Apple and Google competition, and Netflix CEO Reed Hastings was, until recently, on Microsoft's board of directors...

"Anyone looking earlier for news to explain what might be driving the spike would have been disappointed. But Forbes is now reporting that an unconfirmed rumor was behind the run. According to the magazine, word spread on Wall Street that Microsoft was trying to acquire Netflix. CNET also heard these rumors and saw an e-mail from a Wall Street banking firm that showed one rumor circulating indicated Microsoft was offering $90 per share for Netflix.
A Microsoft spokesman declined to comment on rumor and speculation."

Netflix stock rises on Microsoft acquisition rumor | Internet & Media - CNET News