International Business Machines Corp Stock Price, News & Analysis

IBM has announced major advancements at the Quantum Summit 2022, including the unveiling of the new 433 qubit 'Osprey' processor, which significantly enhances quantum computing capabilities, exceeding classical limits. The company also introduced updates to its quantum software for improved error correction and mitigation, and provided details on the upcoming IBM Quantum System Two, aimed for launch by the end of 2023. Additionally, IBM is expanding its quantum network, welcoming new partners to advance quantum applications and security measures as part of their quantum-centric supercomputing vision.

IBM has launched the Business Analytics Enterprise, a software suite aimed at enhancing data-driven decision-making across organizations. This suite features the new IBM Analytics Content Hub, which consolidates analytics tools from various vendors into a unified dashboard. The offering is designed to alleviate data silos and improve access to insights for business teams facing challenges like supply chain disruptions. Also, new capabilities in IBM Cognos Analytics and IBM Planning Analytics are expected to be available on AWS, enhancing forecasting and financial planning solutions.

IBM has launched a demonstration project with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to test the IBM IP Advisor with Watson system. This AI-driven tool utilizes conversational AI and content insight mining to simplify patent data analysis, facilitating strategic innovation for users. The system, available for public testing until November 30, 2022, allows users to query patent information using everyday language, thus democratizing access to complex patent insights.

Sierra Space and IBM have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop next-generation space technology and software platforms for low-Earth orbit commercialization. The collaboration aims to integrate IBM's technology to enhance the efficiency of Sierra Space astronauts' tasks using data analysis. The partnership envisions a comprehensive platform for managing cloud services in space, advancing applications related to commerce, research, and tourism. Both companies target the creation of a flexible distributed computing environment for operational enhancements.

The board of directors of IBM has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.65 per common share, which will be payable on December 10, 2022. Shareholders on record as of November 10, 2022 will receive this payment. This marks the continuation of IBM's consistent dividend payments since 1916, showcasing the company's commitment to shareholder returns and financial stability amidst changing market conditions.

On October 25, 2022, IBM announced an expansion of its embeddable AI software portfolio, introducing three new libraries aimed at assisting partners and developers in creating AI-powered applications. This offering is designed to lower the barriers to AI adoption, addressing skills shortages and development costs associated with building AI models. The new libraries include capabilities for natural language processing, speech-to-text, and text-to-speech, all accessible through IBM's existing AI ecosystem. These enhancements leverage technology from IBM Research and aim to streamline the integration of AI into various applications.

IBM has announced the recipients of the 2022 Education Security Preparedness Grants, awarding $5 million in in-kind services to schools globally to enhance cybersecurity. Grant recipients include institutions from Ireland, the United Arab Emirates, and various states in the U.S. The initiative aims to address increasing cyber threats against schools, with ransom attacks becoming more prevalent. IBM's program is now in its second year, reflecting the urgent need for improved cybersecurity measures as data breaches cost educational institutions an average of $3.86 million.

IBM announced its third-quarter 2022 earnings, reporting revenue of $14.1 billion, a 6% increase year-over-year. At constant currency, revenue rose 15%, driven by robust global adoption of hybrid cloud solutions. Notably, hybrid cloud revenue reached $22.2 billion, up 15%. The company reported a net cash from operating activities of $6.5 billion year-to-date, with free cash flow of $4.1 billion. IBM now expects full-year revenue growth to exceed its mid-single digit target, bolstered by ongoing demand for technology to enhance business capabilities.