Accenture plc - ACN STOCK NEWS

Accenture (NYSE: ACN) reported its third-quarter fiscal 2024 results, revealing new bookings of $21.1 billion, up 22% in U.S. dollars and 26% in local currency. Revenues were $16.5 billion, slightly down by 1% in U.S. dollars but up by 1.4% in local currency. GAAP operating margin increased to 16.0%, and GAAP EPS decreased by 3% to $3.04. Adjusted EPS similarly decreased by 2% to $3.13.

Generative AI bookings reached $900 million, totaling $2 billion year-to-date. Despite the overall revenue decrease, managed services saw a 2% increase in U.S. dollars and 4% in local currency. Consulting revenues were down by 3% in U.S. dollars and 1% in local currency.

Accenture's business outlook for fiscal 2024 expects revenue growth between 1.5% and 2.5% in local currency with adjusted EPS forecasted between $11.85 and $12.00.

Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has announced plans to acquire Fibermind, an Italy-based network services company specializing in fiber and mobile 5G networks. This acquisition aims to enhance Accenture's capabilities in network services across various industries, including telecommunications, utilities, and transportation. Fibermind brings over 20 years of experience, a strong partner ecosystem, and long-standing relationships with national authorities and municipalities in Italy. The acquisition will integrate more than 400 highly qualified professionals into Accenture’s operations, enhancing their expertise in network engineering services. The deal, subject to customary closing conditions including antitrust clearances, complements Accenture's previous acquisitions in Europe focused on 5G and fiber infrastructure.

L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX) has entered into a strategic collaboration with Accenture (NYSE:ACN) to accelerate its technological transformation under the 'LHX NeXt' initiative. The partnership will focus on building a robust digital core, optimizing operations, and fostering future growth.

Key aspects include leveraging Accenture’s expertise in cloud, infrastructure, and application services to enhance agility and scalability. Some L3Harris IT professionals will transition to Accenture, gaining industry-specific training and new technological skills.

Benefits of the collaboration include improved cost management, enhanced customer service through innovative software and systems, and enriched employee experiences with new enterprise resources and tools.

Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has announced key leadership appointments to drive long-term growth and strategic reinvention in the AI era. Angie Park will become CFO on December 1, 2024, succeeding KC McClure, who retires after 36 years. Mauro Macchi will take over as CEO for EMEA on September 1, 2024, following Jean-Marc Ollagnier. Angela Beatty will be the new Chief Leadership and HR Officer starting September 1, 2024, replacing Ellyn Shook. Karthik Narain and Bhaskar Ghosh will assume additional responsibilities, becoming Group Chief Executive, Technology, and Chief Technology Officer, and Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, respectively. Atsushi Egawa and Ryoji Sekido will be co-CEOs of Asia Pacific, with Sekido joining the Global Management Committee. These changes are part of Accenture's strategy to adapt its Growth Model across three markets: the Americas, EMEA, and Asia Pacific.

Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has finalized the acquisition of SOKO, a prominent Brazilian creative agency. The acquisition, initially announced on May 2, 2024, integrates about 300 employees into Droga5 São Paulo, part of Accenture Song.

The move strengthens Accenture's creative and brand capabilities in Brazil and Latin America. SOKO co-CEOs Felipe Simi and Brisa Vicente are appointed as CEO and co-CEO, respectively, with former partner Felipe Belinky becoming the Chief Operating Officer.

SOKO is noted for its innovative brand storytelling and ranks among Brazil's top three advertising agencies. It has earned recognition in major international award shows and aims to boost Droga5's mission of delivering globally impactful creativity.

Accenture Federal Services has secured a Blanket Purchase Agreement with a ceiling value of $170 million from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to provide Flexible Agile Scalable Teams (FAST) support services. This agreement aims to enhance TSA's Security Operations (SO) across multiple modes of transportation within the U.S. and globally. The initiative will focus on implementing Agile design, development, testing, and maintenance capabilities to improve TSA's existing applications and introduce mobile and cloud technologies. The contract spans five years, reinforcing Accenture’s long-term support of TSA programs, including Vetting and Credentialing Systems and the modernization of the Secure Flight prescreening program.

Bath & Body Works (NYSE: BBWI) has announced a multi-year collaboration with Accenture (NYSE: ACN) to modernize and transform its digital and technology platforms. This initiative aims to elevate the brand, utilizing the latest in digital, MarTech, AI, and generative AI to drive growth. The collaboration will introduce innovative capabilities like a digital Fragrance Finder, powered by gen AI, to personalize customer experiences. Accenture’s research suggests that companies leveraging gen AI for customer initiatives can achieve 25% higher revenue growth over five years. The partnership focuses on enhancing customer experiences, operational efficiency, and brand engagement.

Accenture Federal Services has deployed its automated text message service, 'Annie,' nationwide at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs health centers. Annie assists Veterans with medication reminders, surgery prep, and monitoring health data like blood pressure. An eight-month study indicated positive feedback from Veterans for patient education, symptom management, and self-care. Notably, Annie contributed to a 53% decrease in surgery cancellations by helping patients adhere to pre-surgery protocols. The project supports the VA's Office of Connected Care and is part of Iron Bow Technologies' $2 billion contract to enhance Veterans' healthcare accessibility.

Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has entered a three-year partnership with Major League Cricket Champions MI New York, becoming their principal partner. The collaboration will see Accenture’s logo prominently displayed on MI New York's match and training jerseys. Accenture will leverage its technological, data, and AI expertise to enhance team performance and fan engagement both on and off the field. This partnership aims to utilize data analytics, video analysis, and smart technologies to boost players' and coaches' performance, improve team operations, and increase cricket's popularity and engagement among American youth. Major League Cricket's second season starts on July 5th, presenting an opportunity for U.S. fans to experience high-level T20 cricket.