IBM's Software Segment Growth Picks Up: A Sign of More Upside?
Microsoft Corporation MSFT has doubled down on the cloud computing opportunity. Azure's increased availability in more than 60 announced regions globally has strengthened Microsoft's competitive position in the cloud computing market. Operating through a vast network of global data centers that ensure high availability and reliability for applications, Azure offers seamless access to all the services included in the portal once customers subscribe to it. Subscribers can use these services to create cloud-based resources, such as virtual machines and databases, which can then be assembled into running environments used to host workloads and store data.Amazon.com, Inc. AMZN enjoys a dominant position in the cloud-computing market, particularly in the IaaS space, thanks to Amazon Web Services (AWS), which is one of its high-margin-generating businesses. AWS is the world's most comprehensive and broadly adopted on-demand cloud computing platform, offering more than 200 fully featured services from data centers globally. Millions of customers, including the fastest-growing startups, largest enterprises and leading government agencies, are using AWS to lower costs, become more agile and innovate faster. It reportedly offers the widest variety of databases that are purpose-built for different types of applications to enable subscribers to choose the right tool for the job.
IBM has surged 60.7% over the past year compared with no change for the industry.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, IBM trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 3.74, above the industry.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for IBM's earnings for 2025 has been on the rise over the past 30 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
IBM currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
Amazon.com, Inc. (AMZN) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) : Free Stock Analysis Report
International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) : Free Stock Analysis Report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).
Zacks Investment Research
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Business Upturn
17 minutes ago
- Business Upturn
Decoding the Rowan Williams MiM Marketing Model
Rowan Williams, founder and Managing Director of MiM, has built a UK-based marketing agency with a structure that is surprisingly relevant for U.S. audiences. While MiM operates primarily out of the UK, its underlying business model contains transferable elements that could resonate with small businesses, startups, and even marketing students across the United States. From its service offerings to its scalability mechanisms, MiM's approach blends performance-driven strategies with human-centric client management. Here, we unpack how Rowan's business model works—and why it matters for U.S. consumers and entrepreneurs. How Rowan Williams's MiM Agency Builds Client Trust in the U.S. Context MiM places an unusual amount of emphasis on personalized onboarding sessions, where client goals are documented in granular detail. For U.S. businesses, this mirrors the high-touch consultancy style often preferred by mid-sized companies in sectors like hospitality, fitness, and retail. The agency translates abstract marketing goals into measurable KPIs, which is essential in the U.S. market where ROI accountability is non-negotiable. Transparent Performance Reporting for Accountability Instead of generic monthly summaries, MiM delivers campaign performance dashboards that clients can access 24/7. In the U.S., where marketing contracts are often contingent on visible results, this kind of transparency could significantly reduce client churn. Revenue Streams of the MiM Marketing Model for U.S. Small Businesses A large portion of MiM's revenue comes from ongoing retainer agreements rather than one-off projects. For U.S. small businesses, this model offers predictability—both for budgeting and strategic planning. Retainers also foster long-term partnerships, something U.S. agencies sometimes struggle to maintain due to a focus on quick wins. Project-Based High-Impact Campaigns For clients unwilling to commit to long-term retainers, MiM offers high-impact, short-term campaigns. U.S. seasonal businesses—like tourism outfits in Florida or ski resorts in Colorado—could benefit from this flexibility without sacrificing strategic depth. Digital Education and Templates Rowan's parallel presence on platforms like Udemy allows MiM to monetize knowledge in a scalable, passive-income format. These courses can be adapted for U.S. entrepreneurs seeking affordable, self-paced learning in digital marketing. How the MiM Agency Differentiates in Competitive U.S. Marketing Landscapes Blending Data Science With Creative Storytelling MiM's internal team structure pairs data analysts with creative copywriters from the outset of a campaign. This is particularly appealing in the U.S., where audiences respond to both emotional hooks and quantifiable results. Industry-Specific Campaign Blueprints Instead of reinventing the wheel, MiM creates reusable marketing templates tailored for industries like e-commerce, B2B services, and health/wellness. U.S. clients could plug these templates into their existing workflows with minimal localization. Scaling the MiM Business Model for U.S. Market Entry Leveraging Remote-First Operations Because MiM's model is not tied to a physical office, expansion into the U.S. wouldn't require heavy real estate investment. This lowers entry barriers and allows for agile market testing. Partnering With U.S.-Based Freelance Talent By integrating American designers, ad specialists, and content writers into campaigns, MiM could localize messaging without diluting its core methodologies. Consumer Impact of Rowan Williams's MiM Marketing Model in the U.S. Empowering Small Businesses With Enterprise-Grade Tools MiM uses advanced analytics platforms that are typically cost-prohibitive for smaller companies. Through packaged service tiers, U.S. small businesses could access these tools without the typical six-figure software investment. Reducing Marketing Burnout for Entrepreneurs By providing strategy, execution, and reporting under one roof, MiM reduces the need for U.S. entrepreneurs to juggle multiple vendors—freeing up time for core business operations. How Rowan Williams's Educational Background Shapes the MiM Model for U.S. Application Bridging Theory and Practice Through Digital Learning Rowan's experience creating online courses means his agency workflows are designed for teachability. U.S. marketing students could benefit from MiM's case studies as part of digital marketing curricula. Cultivating Cultural Adaptability His work in diverse global markets has informed a model that can adapt to regional U.S. sensibilities—whether tailoring a campaign for the tech-savvy Pacific Northwest or the tradition-driven South. The Untapped Potential: MiM as a Culturally Adaptive Marketing Template for U.S. SMEs Here's an angle few have considered: Rowan Williams's MiM model could serve as a pre-built, culturally adaptive marketing template for U.S. regional SMEs. By combining his global agency experience with digital education expertise, Rowan is positioned to offer sector-specific, plug-and-play strategies that require minimal U.S. localization. From a Chicago-based family bakery to a Los Angeles tech startup, these templates could be rolled out with tailored creative assets and data-backed campaign structures—giving smaller U.S. businesses access to marketing sophistication typically reserved for national brands. In summary: Rowan Williams's MiM marketing model is not just a UK success story. Its blend of transparent client relationships, scalable operations, and adaptable campaign structures could reshape how U.S. businesses approach marketing. For American entrepreneurs, students, and small business owners, this model offers both inspiration and a potential blueprint for sustained growth. This article is intended for informational and editorial purposes only. It does not constitute endorsement or promotion of any individual, company, or entity mentioned. Business Upturn makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Dear Archer Aviation Stock Fans, Mark Your Calendars for August 11
Urban air mobility isn't science fiction anymore, and Archer Aviation (ACHR) is making sure it's in the pilot's seat. The company has quietly climbed the ranks, scoring a rare spotlight as the Official Air Taxi Provider for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games. Plus, with its Midnight aircraft edging closer to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification, global test flights underway, and partnerships stacking up, its 2025 air taxi vision is gaining serious altitude. Recently, Archer added two strategic acquisitions to accelerate next-gen defense aircraft development, bringing core composite manufacturing in-house, securing critical talent, and positioning itself for speed in both defense and commercial markets. More News from Barchart 1 'Strong Buy' Defense Stock to Snag Instead of Palantir Is Qualcomm the Best Semiconductor Stock to Buy Right Now? A $10 Billion Reason to Buy Palantir Stock Markets move fast. Keep up by reading our FREE midday Barchart Brief newsletter for exclusive charts, analysis, and headlines. From strategic alliances to global infrastructure plays, Archer has been busy building altitude. But while the headlines boast of breakthroughs and vision, the market moves on proof, and investors are hungry for numbers. Archer will release its second-quarter 2025 earnings results after the bell on Monday, Aug. 11 — a critical checkpoint. It's a moment that could either fuel more momentum or spark fresh questions. For those tracking the future of flight, this date is more than just earnings. It's a look under the hood of one of the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) industry's most-watched players. About Archer Aviation Stock Founded in 2018 and based in California, Archer Aviation is racing to redefine urban air mobility with its sleek, battery-powered eVTOL aircraft. Currently valued at a market capitalization of $5.3 billion, Archer's flagship Midnight, designed for 20- to 50-mile hops, is nearing commercial debut in 2025, backed by global partnerships like Jetex for infrastructure rollout. Recent defense-focused acquisitions expand its reach beyond city commutes, positioning Archer as a rising force in both commercial mobility and advanced military aviation. Archer Aviation's shares have been on a stellar run, up by a staggering 144% over the past 52 weeks, far outperforming the S&P 500 Index's ($SPX) 20% surge. The rally has been powered by steady progress toward FAA certification and tangible production milestones, keeping bullish sentiment airborne. ACHR stock is up 11% in just the last three months, peaking at $13.92 in May, then slipping and again rising above $13 in July before shedding some gains. Now trading at $9.72, the stock is 30% below its high but still towers over its 52-week low of $2.82. For traders, the chart reads like a pilot's log — rapid ascents, sudden drops, and plenty of crosswinds. The next big test is whether next week's earnings can chart a new flight path or trigger another descent. Digging Into Archer's Q1 Earnings Results Archer Aviation's fiscal Q1 2025 earnings results, unveiled on May 12, offered a balanced mix of turbulence and tailwinds for this pre-revenue eVTOL contender. The company posted a $93.4 million net loss, yet trimmed its loss per share to -$0.17, half of last year's mark. Adjusted EBITDA slipped deeper into negative territory at $109 million versus $86.8 million a year ago, hinting at heavier early-stage investment. Still, Archer kept its spending disciplined, with non-GAAP operating expenses at $113.1 million, underscoring a lean approach as it edges toward commercial launch. The financial runway remains robust — over $1 billion in cash and equivalents — giving Archer one of the thickest cushions in air mobility. That capital will fuel plans for a United Arab Emirates (UAE) debut later this year and a New York City air taxi network buildout. CEO Adam Goldstein pointed to meaningful advances in both civil and defense programs, with partnerships strengthening across global markets. While profitability is still distant, Archer's combination of tightened operations, strategic positioning, and deep pockets keeps the storyline alive, proof that in this race to the skies the company is still very much in the flight plan. With Q2 results on deck next week, Archer Aviation is steering into another critical checkpoint. Management is bracing for an adjusted EBITDA loss between $100 million and $120 million — a reminder that even high-flyers can burn serious fuel before cruising altitude. Meanwhile, analysts tracking the company anticipate Q2 losses to narrow 25.8% year-over-year (YOY) to -$0.23 per share, still with zero revenue on the board. Looking further ahead to fiscal 2025, the forecast calls for further trimming, with losses contracting 33.1% annually to -$0.95 per share, then easing another 4.2% in fiscal 2026 to -$0.91 per share. What Do Analysts Expect for Archer Aviation Stock? Back in early July, Archer Aviation's Midnight eVTOL lifted off from Abu Dhabi's Al Bateen Executive Airport, marking its first test flight in the UAE. The event, attended by top aviation officials, was a milestone in Archer's Launch Edition partnership with Abu Dhabi Aviation and underscored the company's expanding international footprint. The market response was swift. Canaccord Genuity and Cantor Fitzgerald both reiterated 'Buy' ratings with $13 price targets, praising Archer's steady progress toward FAA approval and its growing presence in the UAE as signs of commercial readiness. But as the Q2 earnings release approaches, the tone is not universally bullish. JPMorgan analyst Bill Peterson raised his target from $9 to $10 yet held a 'Neutral' rating, warning against 'irrational exuberance.' While acknowledging strong sector momentum and policy tailwinds from President Donald Trump's administration, the analyst flagged persistent cash burn and possible delays in revenue as near-term risks. ACHR stock has a consensus 'Moderate Buy' rating overall. Of the nine analysts covering the stock, five recommend a 'Strong Buy,' two suggest a 'Moderate Buy,' and the remaining two play it safe with a 'Hold' rating. The mean price target of $12.17 suggests shares have upside potential of 25% from current levels. The Street-high target of $18 implies ACHR could rally as much as 85% from here. On the date of publication, Sristi Suman Jayaswal did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on
Digital Trends
an hour ago
- Digital Trends
AMD's RX 9060 seems unnecessary, but it's exactly what gamers need
AMD has just quietly updated its graphics card lineup, but this one is in no danger of competing against some of the best GPUs. The latest arrival, dubbed the AMD Radeon RX 9060, feels a little unnecessary when compared to existing GPUs — but hear me out. Although the spec changes are subtle, I believe that the RX 9060 could be exactly what we need right now. And yes, that's still true even if you're looking for a more high-end GPU. Here's what the RX 9060 non-XT brings to the table, and why I think it could be good news regardless of how powerful it is. What are the specs of the RX 9060 non-XT? The reason why the RX 9060 non-XT might seem unnecessary is that it's extremely similar to the XT version of the card. However, unsurprisingly, it is a little bit worse. Recommended Videos AMD has shared the official specs of the RX 9060 without any fanfare — the card simply received a product page on AMD's official website. Thanks to that, we have a full overview of its specs and can compare it to the two RX 9060 XTs. The RX 9060 sports 28 RDNA 4 compute units (CUs), which means 1,792 streaming processors (SPs) and 64 TOPs. Meanwhile, both the 8GB and the 18GB RTX 9060 XTs offer 32 CUs for a total of 2,048 SPs. This is quite a downgrade, but it's not the only difference. All three cards sport the same 8GB of VRAM across a 128-bit memory bus, and all three are GDDR6. However, the RX 9060 non-XT uses slower memory modules clocked at 18Gbps. As a result, it'll offer a measly 288GB/s of bandwidth. The cut-down specs result in lower power requirements, though: The RX 9060 has a TDP of 132 watts, while the better counterparts are at 150W and 182W. All in all, we're looking at a pretty budget-oriented GPU — one that many enthusiast gamers might turn their nose up at. It's not going to breeze through Cyberpunk 2077 on max settings, that's for sure. But will it be worth buying? Well, we still don't know a few key aspects. We still don't know the most important thing Before we can fully decide whether the RX 9060 will be a worthwhile pick, we'll need to know its most important spec — well, kind of. As AMD hasn't made any announcements about this new GPU, we don't know when it'll launch, where, or at what price. I'm less bothered about the where and when; it's the pricing that concerns me. With specs such as these, the RX 9060 will have a few noteworthy rivals. AMD's RX 9060 XT 8GB isn't much of an interesting offering when the RX 9060 XT 16GB exists. Meanwhile, the RX 9060 will be even worse, putting it in a losing position against cards from the same generation. Intel's Arc B580 will likely continue to be a similar, or better, alternative. It's my favorite GPU this year, and if you can score it near the $249 MSRP, it's an undeniable value pick. Nvidia's got plenty of horses in this particular race, too, although they're all a lot pricier than I imagine the RX 9060 is going to end up being. The RTX 5060 starts at $299 (and is actually readily available at that price, which is rare considering the current state of GPU pricing); the RTX 5060 Ti comes in two memory variants and can be bought for anywhere from $379 to $450. Nvidia also has the recent RTX 5050, which falls far behind the rest of the range due to the addition of GDDR6 memory. I suspect that the RX 9060 might be targeting the RX 5050 in performance, but the RTX 5060 could be an option, too. With such a saturated market and so many GPUs to choose from, the RX 9060 will need competitive pricing to stand out from the crowd. This could be a good thing As a standalone GPU, the RX 9060 won't blow you away — at least I don't believe so. However, as a part of a larger puzzle, it could help. Most of the GPUs around the same caliber are all selling near MSRP right now, which means that AMD will be facing some serious competition — not just from rivals Intel and Nvidia, but also from its own range. As a result, the RX 9060 is unlikely to fly off the shelves, but this could spell good news for its pricing. Nvidia priced the RTX 5050 at $249, and it can be picked up for as much. If AMD aims for a similar price point — perhaps even $239 — that'd be ideal. We'd finally have something closer to a true budget-friendly GPU available for gamers, with what I expect to be alright 1080p performance at under $250. Above $250, the GPU frankly doesn't make a lot of sense, with the RTX 5060 available for $299. Assuming that AMD aims to be competitive here, the RX 9060 could be more than just a budget GPU. It could be a cheap GPU. Given the current state of things, that's exactly what the market needs, and I'm all for it. This is one of those GPUs where the price will truly decide its fate, and I'm really hoping that we'll get a solid value GPU instead of something overpriced.
