International Business Machines Corp Stock Price, News & Analysis

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.

IBM's recent survey reveals that nearly one-third of IT professionals globally report their businesses utilize artificial intelligence (AI), with 43% accelerating AI adoption due to COVID-19. Despite the growth, challenges remain, such as lack of AI skills, increasing data complexity, and inadequate tools. The Global AI Adoption Index 2021 indicates that while AI adoption remains flat, significant investments are anticipated. Key findings highlight the importance of trustworthy AI and the integration of natural language processing to improve customer experience. IBM's initiatives focus on bridging skills gaps and enhancing AI capabilities.

IBM announced significant advancements in artificial intelligence, hybrid cloud, and quantum computing at its Think conference on May 11, 2021. This initiative aims to drive digital transformations for clients, emphasizing the importance of industry collaboration. Key innovations include AutoSQL, which automates data management, Watson Orchestrate for enhancing productivity, and Project CodeNet for AI's understanding of code. IBM also highlighted a $1 billion investment in its partner ecosystem to support business growth.

IBM has expanded its Global University Program with historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) to 40 institutions, continuing its commitment through a $100 million investment. The initiative has trained over 247 faculty members and provided free access to cloud, AI, and quantum computing resources. Partnerships with organizations like the American Association of Blacks in Higher Education will enhance access for students to industry resources. A recent report outlines strategies for businesses to cultivate diverse workforces by collaborating with HBCUs, emphasizing their role in producing STEM graduates.