International Business Machines Corp - IBM STOCK NEWS

IBM (NYSE: IBM) and CLX Health are collaborating to integrate the IBM Digital Health Pass with CLX Health's TrustAssure platform. This integration aims to facilitate a secure method for individuals to schedule COVID-19 tests and obtain verifiable health credentials for entry into various locations such as workplaces and sports venues. The Digital Health Pass uses advanced technologies like encryption and blockchain to provide a digital alternative to traditional paper results.

On June 17, 2021, IBM announced a collaboration with 30 global organizations to improve employability and skills for underserved populations. This initiative, highlighted by CEO Arvind Krishna, aims to close the global skills gap, potentially adding US$11.5 trillion to global GDP by 2028. The program plans to skill 500,000 people by year-end, offering training and job placement opportunities, including a commitment to secure 7,000 jobs. The collaboration also features partnerships with ManpowerGroup to connect job seekers to tech roles in high demand.

The UK government announced a five-year, £210 million partnership with IBM to establish the Hartree National Centre for Digital Innovation (HNCDI) in Daresbury. This initiative aims to enhance UK businesses' access to advanced technologies like AI and quantum computing, addressing infrastructure and skills gaps. Over 60 new scientists will join the project, aimed at fostering innovation and economic growth. The collaboration is part of IBM's global Discovery Accelerator initiative to boost research and digital technology adoption across various industries.

IBM announced a $3 million Education Security Preparedness Grant, aimed at addressing cybersecurity in K-12 public school districts. Six districts will receive in-kind support worth $500,000 each, including security services from IBM Service Corps teams. This initiative comes amidst increasing cyberattack threats, with over 1,700 educational institutions affected by ransomware in 2020. Key insights from grant applications revealed that 50% of districts have cybersecurity budgets below $100,000, and over 40% experienced ransomware attacks. The deployment of services is set to begin this summer.

IBM has announced the establishment of the IBM Center for Government Cybersecurity to assist federal agencies in addressing cybersecurity challenges. Located in Washington DC, the center will offer collaborative workshops focusing on zero trust frameworks and cloud security, drawing on IBM's extensive cybersecurity expertise. This initiative comes in response to increasing threats, including ransomware, as noted in the 2021 IBM Security X-Force Threat Intelligence Index. The center aims to enhance the security posture of federal agencies through innovative technologies and techniques.

On May 20, 2021, IBM and Pitney Bowes announced a strategic agreement for IT automation and managed infrastructure services aimed at transforming Pitney Bowes' operations through hybrid cloud computing. This partnership will enhance collaboration between business and IT, supporting Pitney Bowes' operations for clients, including 90% of the Fortune 500. IBM will manage core infrastructure systems to maintain critical business processes, enabling Pitney Bowes to innovate in ecommerce, shipping, and financial services.

Kyndryl, a new public company arising from IBM's Managed Infrastructure Services separation, has appointed Michael Bradshaw as Chief Information Officer. With experience as CIO at NBC Universal and Lockheed Martin, Bradshaw will leverage his expertise to enhance Kyndryl's technology infrastructure and services.

The company aims to offer modern and reliable technology solutions, emphasizing its commitment to driving business results for clients. The separation is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2021.

IBM (NYSE: IBM) has announced its plan to acquire Waeg, a top Salesforce Consulting Partner in Europe, to enhance its Salesforce services and bolster its hybrid cloud and AI strategy. This acquisition aims to meet the growing demand for experience-led business transformation amidst evolving customer engagement needs, leveraging data and AI. Founded in 2014, Waeg offers comprehensive Salesforce consulting, with expertise in various industries. The transaction is expected to close within the quarter, subject to customary conditions.