IBM taps a new market

Article Excerpt

IBM, $142.60, is still a buy. The company (New York symbol IBM; Shares outstanding: 904.1 million; Market cap: $128.0 billion; TSINetwork Rating: Above Average; Divd. yield: 4.6%) is one of the world’s largest computer firms, with operations in over 175 countries. In the past few years, IBM has shifted its focus to its more-profitable cloud computing, consulting and mainframe businesses. As part of that strategy, the company has agreed to acquire consulting firm Octo for an undisclosed sum. Based in Virginia, this privately held firm helps U.S. government civilian and defense agencies upgrade their information systems. Those services include artificial intelligence, data analytics and cybersecurity. IBM expects to complete the purchase by the end of 2022. Adding Octo will help the company tap increased government spending to modernize its computer systems and strengthen security. Meanwhile, IBM will likely earn $10.50 a share in 2023, and trades at a moderate 13.6 times that estimate. The stock yields a high 4.6%. IBM remains a buy. buy…