International Business Machines Corp Stock Price, News & Analysis

IBM has launched a new cloud service, Unified Key Orchestrator, aimed at helping enterprises protect critical data across hybrid multicloud environments. This service enables organizations to manage encryption keys more effectively, enhancing their compliance capabilities while reducing operational complexity. The launch responds to the increasing need for security in multicloud setups, where companies often face challenges in safeguarding data from cyber threats. With this tool, IBM reinforces its commitment to providing innovative security solutions tailored to client needs.

IBM has filed a lawsuit against LzLabs for allegedly infringing its patents and misappropriating trade secrets related to its mainframe systems. The legal action, initiated in Waco, Texas, claims that LzLabs engaged in reverse engineering, made false statements about its products, and previously faced litigation for similar violations. IBM seeks an injunction to halt LzLabs' unlawful use of its intellectual property. The infringed patents involve methods crucial to IBM’s high-performance technology, underscoring the company's commitment to protect its investments in research and development.

IBM announced new AI-powered automation solutions in collaboration with Flexera to streamline IT asset management across hybrid, multi-cloud environments. This initiative aims to help organizations reduce costs and enhance software license compliance. A Flexera study indicated that 34% of IT budgets are allocated to software, yet many enterprises struggle with license management. IBM's integration of Turbonomic and Flexera One offers real-time insights for better optimization. The launch is part of IBM's broader strategy to address complexities in IT operations.

AFS has announced the launch of a new container-based deployment model for its AFSVision platform, enabled by IBM’s Red Hat OpenShift. This cloud-native version enhances efficiency and security for financial institutions, allowing for easier installation across private, public, and hybrid clouds. Recently delivered to a U.S. subsidiary of a top global bank with over €2.5 trillion in assets, this release offers improved flexibility, scalability, and operational efficiency. AFS continues to lead in providing real-time lending solutions, processing over $3 trillion in loans daily.

Capital Clarity announced its advisory role in Neudesic's acquisition by IBM on March 8, 2022. Neudesic is a leading U.S. cloud services consultancy specializing in Microsoft Azure, offering comprehensive digital transformation services across various industries. The firm has over 1,500 experts and a strong presence in the health, finance, and retail sectors. Financial details of the acquisition remain undisclosed, but the deal was finalized in Q4 2021. This acquisition is expected to enhance IBM's capabilities in cloud services and technology-driven solutions.

Red Hat, Inc.

announced the expansion of its training offerings for partners, allowing them to access Red Hat Training courses for free. This initiative aims to enhance skills in delivering open hybrid cloud solutions and includes 17 self-paced courses available in eight languages. A study by IDC indicated that organizations utilizing Red Hat Training can achieve a three-year ROI of 365%. The offerings are part of Red Hat's ongoing commitment to support partners in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

IBM Security's 2022 X-Force Threat Intelligence Index reveals that ransomware attacks increased significantly in 2021, particularly targeting the manufacturing sector, which experienced 23% of all attacks. Unpatched vulnerabilities were responsible for 44% of ransomware incidents, highlighting the need for improved vulnerability management. The report also noted a concerning trend of cybercriminals shifting their focus to cloud environments, with a 146% rise in new Linux ransomware code. The average lifespan of ransomware groups remains at 17 months, indicating a persistent threat.

IBM has announced a multi-million dollar investment in a new Security Command Center in Bengaluru, India, aimed at enhancing cybersecurity for organizations across Asia Pacific. This center, the first of its kind in the region, will offer realistic simulated cyberattack training to equip businesses against rising threats, as Asia was the most-targeted region for cyberattacks in 2021, accounting for 26% of such incidents. The initiative includes the establishment of a Security Operations Center providing 24/7 security response services globally.

On February 22, 2022, Worley, ABB, and IBM announced a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on green hydrogen facilities. This partnership aims to develop an integrated solution that enables energy companies to build and manage green hydrogen plants more efficiently. Green hydrogen, produced through renewable-powered electrolysis, faces high production costs, which this collaboration seeks to address. Worley will lead project execution, ABB will enhance electrical and automation systems, and IBM will provide systems integration and data solutions.