Yes they can... and I take it as good news... but if you look at it... how can Microsoft possibly ignore blockchain technology. They are only recognizing it because they have to... not because they chose to.. Microsoft is always 1 step behind the real world, but because they have a monopoly they can afford to be lax to market.
It's good they're recognizing cryptocurrency, because if they didn't, that could sign their death warrant and let a competitor come in and replace them.
You make very good points here @intelliguy. Micro$oft have always been dragged screaming along the innovation road. They take so long to get on board that they actually hold back progress, as most observers want to see the big guys involved. Their web browser has always been a pain in the ass when it comes to adapting new standards that are good for the industry, developers and users in general. So it is certainly good to see them recognizing the blockchain now, as it will makes others sit up and take notice.