IBM shares experienced a surge of as much as 8% in extended trading after the company released its fourth-quarter results, surpassing Wall Street’s expectations. The tech and services provider reported adjusted earnings per share of $3.87, compared to the estimated $3.78, and revenue of $17.38 billion, exceeding the projected $17.30 billion.
IBM’s revenue witnessed a 4% increase from the previous year, amounting to $16.69 billion. Moreover, net income rose to $3.29 billion, or $3.55 per share, compared to $2.71 billion, or $2.96 per share, in the same quarter of the previous year. These figures depict a thriving financial performance in the midst of a challenging and uncertain macroeconomic environment.
The company’s free cash flow for the year reached $11.2 billion, exceeding the management’s projection of $10.5 billion. IBM also achieved its widest fourth-quarter gross margin since 1999, reaching 59.1%. The increase in gross margin was primarily driven by real estate reductions, resulting in lower capital expenditures for the quarter.
IBM reported software revenue of $7.51 billion, reflecting a 3% growth. However, this fell short of analysts’ estimated $7.67 billion. Consulting revenue experienced a positive trajectory, reaching $5.05 billion, a 6% growth, despite being slightly lower than the StreetAccount consensus of $5.12 billion. Revenue from infrastructure, including mainframe computers, stood at $4.60 billion, marking a 3% increase and surpassing the StreetAccount consensus of $4.28 billion.
During the fourth quarter, IBM unveiled a $500 million venture fund aimed at enterprise artificial intelligence startups. Additionally, the company announced its plans to acquire StreamSets and webMethods, two businesses majority-owned by Software AG, for 2.13 billion euros or $2.32 billion. These strategic investments highlight IBM’s commitment to driving innovation and staying at the forefront of emerging technologies.
Looking ahead, IBM foresees $12 billion in free cash flow by 2024, along with mid-single-digit revenue growth in constant currency. Chief Financial Officer James Kavanaugh expressed caution, suggesting that assuming the lower end of the projected model is prudent given the volatility of the current business environment. Furthermore, Kavanaugh mentioned that productivity gains would lead to workforce rebalancing, mirroring the trends observed in 2023.
Despite the positive after-hours trading movement, IBM shares have experienced a moderate year-to-date increase of around 7%, whereas the S&P 500 U.S. stock index has gained 2% during the same period.
IBM’s fourth-quarter results surpassed expectations, displaying strong financial performance amidst a challenging economic landscape. The company’s initiatives in emerging technologies, coupled with strategic investments and acquisitions, position it well for future growth. However, caution should be exercised in the face of evolving market conditions and potential risks.
Leave a Reply