Latest news with #PrismaAIRS
The Star
12 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
Palo Alto's forecasts signals AI boost for cybersecurity tools
A Palo Alto Networks logo is seen in this illustration taken August 18, 2025. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration (Reuters) -Palo Alto Networks forecast fiscal 2026 revenue and profit above Wall Street estimates on Monday, betting on growing demand for its artificial intelligence-powered cybersecurity solutions, sending its shares up nearly 5% in extended trading. The company has been benefiting from an AI-driven upgrade cycle as enterprises accelerate their cloud adoption and modernize security operations amid rising data breach incidents. A wave of high-profile cyberattacks has hit global companies including Microsoft, UnitedHealth Group, Walt Disney and Oracle, prompting the need for robust security solutions. Palo Alto's new launches such as cloud security platform 'Cortex Cloud' and security platform to protect AI apps 'Prisma AIRS', together with its planned $25 billion CyberArk acquisition, deepen its cybersecurity offerings. The company also announced that founder and Chief Technology Officer Nir Zuk will be retiring after being with Palo Alto for over 20 years. Long-time product leader Lee Klarich has been named as its CTO and board member. Klarich will also chair the board's security committee in a bid to bolster the company's AI-driven platform strategy. Palo Alto competes with CrowdStrike, Fortinet and Zscaler. Its customers include Salesforce, Dell Technologies and NetApp. The company projected annual revenue between $10.48 billion and $10.53 billion, above analysts' average estimate of $10.43 billion, according to data compiled by LSEG. It expects adjusted profit per share of $3.75 to $3.85, above estimates of $3.67 for the fiscal year. The company's first-quarter revenue forecast of $2.45 billion to $2.47 billion came in above expectations of $2.43 billion. Its adjusted quarterly earnings per share of 88 cents to 90 cents was also above estimates of 85 cents. Palo Alto reported upbeat fourth-quarter results. Its revenue grew 16% to $2.54 billion from a year ago. It reported adjusted EPS of 95 cents for the quarter ended July 31, beating estimates of 88 cents. (Reporting by Jaspreet Singh in Bengaluru; Editing by Shreya Biswas)
Techday NZ
4 days ago
- Business
- Techday NZ
Palo Alto Networks launches quantum-ready & AI security suite
Palo Alto Networks has introduced new security solutions aimed at helping enterprises address risks associated with quantum computing, multicloud strategies, and artificial intelligence. The company is providing a suite of enhancements within its network security platform, focusing on quantum readiness, simplified cloud network security, and the expansion of artificial intelligence capabilities. These updates are available to all customers using the latest version of the company's software. Quantum readiness Palo Alto Networks' latest release includes a Quantum Readiness Dashboard, which offers organisations visibility into their cryptographic posture. It also introduces what the company describes as the industry's first cipher translation, able to upgrade applications to quantum-safe encryption even if the applications themselves do not natively support such standards. Additionally, 14 new models of fifth-generation Next-Generation Firewalls have been launched, specifically designed to handle post-quantum cryptography efficiently. "The quantum threat to encryption is no longer theoretical; it's an inevitability that demands action now. With these latest innovations that cover the entire quantum readiness lifecycle, we are pioneering the defense for this new era. Every Palo Alto Networks customer that uses our latest software will be able to accelerate their journey to becoming quantum safe, with the intelligence and infrastructure needed to proactively secure their most critical assets from tomorrow's threats, today." This statement from Anand Oswal, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Network Security at Palo Alto Networks, underlines the company's approach to managing emerging cyber risks presented by quantum computing advances. Addressing the multicloud and AI landscape The updated suite offers a cloud network and AI risk assessment tool. This feature is designed to provide continuous risk identification for cloud and AI assets, identifying areas with weak or missing controls and allowing organisations to make informed decisions about improving their security posture. Firewalls and Prisma AIRS instances can now be deployed automatically, securing organisations' multicloud environments more efficiently. The management of these deployments is consolidated in the updated Strata Cloud Manager, which allows organisations to automate security deployment as well as scale protections on demand. Industry perspectives Pete Finalle, Research Manager, Security and Trust Team at IDC, commented on the security challenges that modern enterprises face as technological environments become more complex: "The increased urgency to achieve quantum readiness, coupled with the proliferation of multicloud environments and rapid advancements in AI, has created a complex and fragmented security landscape for the modern enterprise. This has created blind spots and inconsistent policies for businesses striving to establish a resilient zero trust architecture. Palo Alto Networks proactively addressing quantum computing threats with 'crypto agility' is a key differentiator. Additionally, highly scalable software firewalls with complete deployment automation and native microsegmentation address critical visibility and operational challenges in network security." The enhancements also aim to eliminate operational silos by centralising network security functions, allowing visibility and enforcement across multicloud deployments. Automatic scaling and integrated load balancing remove the need for additional point products, streamlining cloud operations for IT teams. Customer feedback End users such as the National Basketball Association (NBA) and travel technology provider Sabre commented on their experiences and expectations. "We aim to deliver secure, high-performance digital experiences - from real-time game analytics to fan engagement - that build trust with our community. As we expand our multicloud infrastructure, we rely on Palo Alto Networks innovative platform to support this vision. With this latest update, we gain a unified platform that empowers us to rapidly scale services, protect critical digital assets and stay ahead of evolving threats, making Palo Alto Networks our trusted partner for securing the future of the game," said Mehdi Lahrech, Senior Manager, Hybrid Cloud Networking, NBA. Scott Moser, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer at Sabre, also highlighted the heightened importance of security in their sector: "Our vision at Sabre is to power the global travel industry by providing innovative software and technology solutions, and we can't be distracted or slowed down by cyberthreats. With the threat landscape being radically changed by AI-powered attackers, complex global architectures and the huge shifts coming with quantum computing, we need a cybersecurity partner with a powerful vision and a proven ability to execute. This announcement is just another milestone that proves why Palo Alto Networks is our partner of choice for cybersecurity." Software availability The new features, including quantum readiness tools and cloud protection enhancements, are available as a software upgrade to PAN-OS 12.1 Orion. Follow us on: Share on:
Yahoo
30-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Palo Alto Networks in talks to acquire CyberArk for over $20bn
Palo Alto Networks is reportedly negotiating to acquire CyberArk Software, an Israeli publicly traded IT company, in a deal potentially exceeding $20bn. A report by the Wall Street Journal, citing unnamed sources familiar with the matter, indicated that the US-based cybersecurity company might enter into a definitive agreement for the acquisition as early as this week. Palo Alto Networks aims to expand its capabilities to offer comprehensive security solutions, targeting the growing threat landscape shaped by AI. This potential acquisition of CyberArk would mark Palo Alto Networks' largest deal to date, as the company seeks consolidation within the sector. Following news of the possible acquisition, shares of CyberArk surged by over 13% on 29 July while Palo Alto Networks experienced a 5% decline in share value, bringing its market capitalisation to slightly under $130bn. CyberArk is known for its expertise in identity security and privileged access management, offering services to over 10,000 clients worldwide. Established in 1999 by Udi Mokady, who remains executive chair, CyberArk went public in 2014. The company is currently listed on Nasdaq. Under CEO Matt Cohen, the company has embraced a subscription-based software business model. The cybersecurity sector has witnessed strong deal activity as organisations increase their investment in security solutions. Notably, Google's parent company Alphabet announced its intention this March to acquire Israeli cybersecurity startup Wiz for approximately $32bn. Increasing competition among integrated cybersecurity platforms has made several companies appealing targets for acquisition by larger companies or private equity groups. As of the close on 28 July, data from the London Stock Exchange Group placed CyberArk's market valuation at $19.3bn. Recently, Palo Alto Networks completed the acquisition of Protect AI to strengthen its position in securing AI applications and infrastructure. By integrating Protect AI's technology and expertise, Palo Alto Networks aims to address security needs across various industries and solidify its position as a major player in comprehensive AI security through its Prisma AIRS platform. "Palo Alto Networks in talks to acquire CyberArk for over $20bn" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Yahoo
25-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
PANW's AI Threat Defense Expands: Will Protect AI be the Game Changer?
Palo Alto Networks (PANW) is tackling emerging risks as enterprises race to adopt artificial intelligence (AI). Complex AI ecosystems, which include AI models, agents, APIs, and third-party tools, are creating vulnerabilities like model manipulation, data poisoning, and prompt injection attacks. Traditional security tools aren't designed to secure AI systems end-to-end, making full lifecycle protection a growing priority for PANW's customers. Most recently, Palo Alto Networks completed its $700 million acquisition of Protect AI, which aims to solve these very challenges. Management sees this as a key step to becoming the go-to provider for securing AI workloads. With Protect AI, PANW is expanding its AI security coverage from development to deployment. Protect AI brings tools that scan AI models, manage their posture, test them for vulnerabilities (red teaming), and provide runtime protection. These capabilities will now strengthen PANW's Prisma AI-Ready Security (Prisma AIRS) platform. Prisma AIRS is designed to give enterprises visibility and control over their AI assets across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Just weeks after launch, Prisma AIRS has already built an eight-figure sales pipeline. With AI infrastructure spending projected to exceed $300 billion in the next 12 months, Palo Alto Networks sees this as a key opportunity. Prisma AIRS, supported by the planned Protect AI integration, could become a foundational element of Palo Alto Networks' platform strategy and play a key role in helping the company meet its long-term target of $15 billion in annual recurring revenues by fiscal 2030. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal 2025 and 2026 indicates that Palo Alto Networks' revenues will grow in the mid-teen percentage range. The consensus mark for fiscal 2025 and 2026 revenues is pegged at $9.19 billion and $10.45 billion, respectively. How Competitors Fare Against PANW Competitors like CrowdStrike (CRWD) and SentinelOne (S) are also gaining ground through platform expansion and AI innovation. CrowdStrike is positioning Charlotte AI as a key part of its competitive advantage in delivering automated and scalable cybersecurity. In the first quarter of fiscal 2026, CRWD expanded Charlotte AI's detection triage. This enables Charlotte AI to deliver autonomous expert-level triage, reasoning and response at machine speed. This is shaping Charlotte AI to be a strong differentiator for CrowdStrike in automated security. Though comparatively a small competitor, SentinelOne in the first quarter of fiscal 2026 posted year-over-year growth of 24% in its ARR. The growth was fueled by the rising adoption of SentinelOne's AI-first Singularity platform and Purple AI. PANW's Price Performance, Valuation and Estimates Shares of Palo Alto Networks have gained 9.3% year to date compared with the Security industry's growth of 20%. PANW YTD Price Return Performance Image Source: Zacks Investment Research From a valuation standpoint, Palo Alto Networks trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 12.59X, lower than the industry's average of 14.31X. PANW Forward 12-Month P/S Ratio Image Source: Zacks Investment Research The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PANW's fiscal 2025 and 2026 earnings implies year-over-year growth of 15.14% and 11.27%, respectively. The estimates for fiscal 2025 have remained unchanged over the past 60 days, while the estimates for fiscal 2026 have been revised downward by a penny over the past 30 days. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Palo Alto Networks 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 SentinelOne, Inc. (S) : Free Stock Analysis Report Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (PANW) : Free Stock Analysis Report CrowdStrike (CRWD) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Globe and Mail
11-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Can AI-Driven Platform Momentum Keep Aiding PANW's FCF Growth?
Palo Alto Networks PANW continues to ride strong momentum from its AI-driven platform strategy, which is playing a key role in boosting its free cash flow (FCF). In the third quarter of fiscal 2025, its adjusted FCF increased 13.5% sequentially to $578.4 million, while FCF margin expanded 270 basis points to 25.3%. This strength is driven by the rising adoption of its artificial intelligence (AI) integrated platforms like Cortex XSIAM and Prisma. AI is increasingly embedded into Palo Alto Networks' offerings, which is helping it win multi-product deals. In the last reported quarter, the company added more than 90 new platformized deals. This included two multi-million-dollar deals worth $90 million and $46 million for its Cortex XSIAM. Also, Palo Alto Networks recently launched Prisma AI-Ready Security (Prisma AIRS), which aims to protect AI models from build to deployment across hybrid and multi-cloud setups. Just weeks after launch, Prisma AIRS has already built an eight-figure sales pipeline. As customers consolidate their security needs on Palo Alto Networks' platforms, the company gains scale benefits and cost efficiencies. Multi-platform customers grew nearly 70% year over year, while those using Cortex tripled in the third quarter. Moreover, XSIAM's annual recurring revenues increased 200% year over year, and with AI infrastructure spending projected to exceed $300 billion in the next 12 months, PANW is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. Additionally, PANW's shift to annual billing and a subscription-heavy model provides more predictability about revenues and FCF. During its third-quarter earnings call, the company stated that about 80% of expected fourth-quarter collections have already been booked, which reflects visibility into near-term FCF. Looking ahead, Palo Alto Networks forecasts $15 billion in annual recurring revenues by fiscal 2030. With 1,250 of its top 5,000 customers already on platformized deals and AI adoption accelerating, PANW's FCF profile looks increasingly durable. The company expects to generate an adjusted FCF margin between 37.5% and 38% in fiscal 2025, while maintaining over a 37% margin in fiscal 2026 and 2027. How Competitors Fare Against PANW Zscaler ZS and CrowdStrike CRWD are also evolving their platforms to meet enterprise security demands. Zscaler continues to expand its Zero Trust Exchange platform. In the third quarter of fiscal 2025, Zscaler reported ARR of $2.9 billion, up 23% year over year. Zscaler's Zero Trust Everywhere, Data Security Everywhere, and Agentic Operations are becoming its main growth engine. Together, these innovative categories are approaching $1 billion in ARR. However, Zscaler's FCF margin declined 18.2% sequentially. In the first quarter of fiscal 2026, CrowdStrike introduced Falcon Next-Gen SIEM and Charlotte AI. While Charlotte AI functions as a generative AI security analyst, reducing the support time provided by cybersecurity professionals, CrowdStrike's Falcon Next-Gen SIEM provides a unified platform for detecting threats, investigating attacks and responding to them. Moreover, CrowdStrike's FCF margin improved 8.7% sequentially. PANW's Price Performance, Valuation and Estimates Shares of Palo Alto Networks have gained 6% year to date compared with the Security industry's growth of 27.1 %. PANW YTD Price Return Performance From a valuation standpoint, Palo Alto Networks trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 12.33X, lower than the industry's average of 15.23X. PANW Forward 12-Month P/S Ratio The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PANW's fiscal 2025 and 2026 earnings implies year-over-year growth of 15.14% and 11.38%, respectively. The estimates for fiscal 2025 and 2026 have both been revised upward in the past 60 days, respectively. Palo Alto Networks currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. #1 Semiconductor Stock to Buy (Not NVDA) The incredible demand for data is fueling the market's next digital gold rush. As data centers continue to be built and constantly upgraded, the companies that provide the hardware for these behemoths will become the NVIDIAs of tomorrow. One under-the-radar chipmaker is uniquely positioned to take advantage of the next growth stage of this market. It specializes in semiconductor products that titans like NVIDIA don't build. It's just beginning to enter the spotlight, which is exactly where you want to be. See This Stock Now for Free >> 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 Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (PANW): Free Stock Analysis Report Zscaler, Inc. (ZS): Free Stock Analysis Report CrowdStrike (CRWD): Free Stock Analysis Report
