International Business Machines Corp Stock Price, News & Analysis

IBM announced that DIA has transitioned its platform to IBM Cloud, utilizing IBM Cloud Hyper Protect Services for enhanced security and management of financial data. This migration aims to bolster data protection against potential cyber threats in the decentralized finance (DeFi) sector. The services ensure that sensitive data remains confidential, giving DIA full control over its cryptographic keys. The collaboration enhances security protocols, allowing DIA to operate in regulated environments while maintaining the integrity of its open-source financial data platform.

IBM has entered a five-year partnership with Luminor Bank to drive the bank's digital transformation and strengthen security. The collaboration will involve migrating Luminor's IT infrastructure to IBM Cloud for Financial Services, enhancing customer satisfaction and operational agility. Luminor aims to create a new digital platform for better service delivery while ensuring regulatory compliance.

IBM will also provide industry expertise in Cloud, AI, and Security, enabling Luminor to innovate and comply with the stringent regulations of the banking industry.

IBM (NYSE: IBM) reported Q4 and full-year 2020 earnings, highlighting progress in hybrid cloud and AI. Q4 revenue was $20.4 billion, down 6%, with a GAAP EPS of $1.41, affected by a $2.04 billion pre-tax charge. Full-year revenue totaled $73.6 billion, a decrease of 5%, with total cloud revenue at $25.1 billion, up 19%. The company's gross profit margins improved, and debt was reduced by $3.9 billion. IBM anticipates revenue growth in 2021, targeting adjusted free cash flow between $11 billion and $12 billion.

On January 19, 2021, Atos and IBM expanded their strategic alliance to enhance digital transformation for businesses. The collaboration focuses on creating industry-specific automation solutions powered by AI and hybrid cloud technologies. Key areas of development include asset lifecycle management, maintenance optimization, logistics solutions, and energy monitoring. This partnership aims to improve productivity and reduce costs in sectors such as Manufacturing, Energy, and Retail. Both companies emphasize their shared vision of leveraging data-driven strategies for operational optimization.

IBM (NYSE: IBM) has announced its acquisition of Taos, a prominent cloud professional and managed services provider. This move enhances IBM's hybrid cloud capabilities, positioning it strategically in the growing cloud services market, projected to exceed $200 billion by 2024. Taos, with extensive partnerships and over 300 certifications, strengthens IBM's consulting services in North America. The transaction, expected to close in the first quarter of 2021, aims to facilitate clients' transitions to hybrid cloud environments and drive growth in IBM's cloud offerings.

IBM and Audi UK have partnered to revamp Audi's website, enhancing the digital customer experience amid a challenging market. In 2020, Audi reported a 59% increase in online sales inquiries, despite a 30% industry decline in new UK car sales due to the pandemic. This transformation adapted to a contact-less purchasing model, integrating data analytics and agile practices. The project resulted in significant improvements including a 90% reduction in customer submission errors and faster feature delivery, ultimately positioning Audi UK as a leader in digital sales within the VW Group.

IBM (NYSE: IBM) partners with Covalent to utilize IBM Blockchain technology on IBM LinuxONE, allowing consumers to track the carbon footprint and supply chain of eco-friendly fashion accessories made from AirCarbon. Covalent's products are certified as carbon-negative, appealing to the growing number of consumers interested in sustainable products. A unique blockchain-based 'Carbon Date' enables traceability for each product, enhancing consumer trust and knowledge regarding their purchases.

IBM has achieved a milestone by securing 9,130 U.S. patents in 2020, maintaining its lead for 28 consecutive years. The patents focus on critical domains including artificial intelligence, cloud computing, quantum computing, and cybersecurity. Notably, IBM's initiatives in AI led to over 2,300 patents, and it also secured more than 3,000 patents related to hybrid cloud technologies. The company continues to innovate, emphasizing the importance of scientific research and its commitment to R&D, as articulated by Darío Gil, SVP and Director of IBM Research.

IBM has acquired 7Summits, a leading Salesforce consultancy, enhancing its Salesforce services and experience design capabilities. This strategic move aligns with IBM's hybrid cloud and AI initiatives to facilitate digital transformation across industries. 7Summits will integrate into IBM Global Business Services, expanding its consulting and application development capabilities. The collaboration aims to address rising client demand for innovative solutions, leveraging data and AI. Financial details of the acquisition were not disclosed.