International Business Machines Corp Stock Price, News & Analysis

IBM (NYSE: IBM) has launched a new version of its Financial Transaction Manager (FTM), now containerized to run on Red Hat OpenShift, enhancing its hybrid cloud capabilities for banks and financial institutions. The FTM is an integrated payments platform that facilitates real-time monitoring and processing of financial transactions across various payment types, aimed at improving management and performance. The updated version supports rulebooks from prominent payment networks, enabling organizations to gain insights into payment trends, ultimately responding better to customer needs.

IBM has launched its Risk Quantification Services to help organizations prioritize cybersecurity investments using analytics similar to traditional business decisions. This service allows Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) to present quantitative data to the C-suite, detailing the financial implications of security risks. By assessing the probability and potential loss from security events, IBM aids in informed decision-making for cybersecurity strategies.

IBM announced a new initiative to assist U.S. states in managing voter information during the COVID-19 pandemic using AI technology from Watson. The company offers the Watson Assistant service free for 60 days to help states address a surge in voting-related inquiries. This system utilizes advanced Natural Language Processing to provide quick responses to voter questions about polling places, mail-in ballots, and deadlines. Notably, Idaho has already adopted this service to facilitate communication with its 900,000 registered voters.

IBM has launched its first Quantum education and research initiative for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), with a focus on fostering a diverse quantum workforce. The initiative, titled the IBM-HBCU Quantum Center, will partner with Howard University and 12 other HBCUs, providing access to quantum computers and promoting education programs. Additionally, IBM is investing $100M in technology and skills development through the IBM Skills Academy. This program aims to equip students in STEM fields with essential skills in quantum computing, AI, and more.

The Mayflower Autonomous Ship (MAS), a collaborative project by ProMare and IBM, has been successfully launched in Plymouth, England. This AI-powered, solar-driven vessel aims to gather crucial environmental data over the next six months, addressing issues like global warming and plastic pollution. MAS operates autonomously, featuring advanced AI technology for navigation without human intervention. A new interactive web portal has been launched to provide real-time updates on MAS's missions. The ship's transatlantic voyage is planned for Spring 2021, commemorating the 400th anniversary of the original Mayflower's journey.

IBM joined the World Business Council for Sustainable Development on Sept. 11, 2020, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. This partnership aims to utilize advanced technologies like AI, analytics, and IoT to tackle environmental challenges. Mark Foster emphasized the shared vision of driving societal innovation for sustainability.

IBM's initiatives focus on addressing climate change through research and partnerships. The company has a history of sustainable practices, reducing CO2 emissions by 39% since 2005 and conserving significant energy resources.

IBM has partnered with ESPN to introduce the Trade Assistant with IBM Watson, a new feature in the ESPN Fantasy Football app, enhancing user experience during the 2020 season. This AI-driven tool simplifies fantasy football trades by evaluating player values and trade fairness, utilizing advanced Natural Language Processing to analyze data from various sources. IBM continues to innovate in AI applications, further solidifying its role in entertainment and sports technology. As part of this collaboration, ESPN Fantasy Football users will directly engage with Watson, gaining insights to make informed trading decisions.

On September 8, 2020, Schlumberger, IBM, and Red Hat announced a collaboration aimed at accelerating digital transformation in the oil and gas sector. This initiative will utilize IBM's hybrid cloud technology, specifically the Red Hat OpenShift platform, to expand access to Schlumberger's DELFI cognitive exploration and production environment. The project will focus on hybrid cloud deployments and the OSDU data platform implementation, enhancing operational efficiency and compliance with local regulations. This partnership signifies a major step in providing comprehensive digital solutions to energy operators globally.

Bloomberg Media will launch an innovative debate series, "That's Debatable," on Bloomberg Television on October 9 at 7:00 PM ET, in partnership with Intelligence Squared U.S. and hosted by journalist John Donvan. Sponsored by IBM (NYSE:IBM), the series aims to engage audiences on pressing issues through Oxford-style debates featuring expert teams. AI from IBM Watson will enhance discussions by analyzing viewer submissions and providing insights. The inaugural debate explores the contentious topic: "It's Time to Redistribute the Wealth."