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PANW vs. CSCO: Which Cybersecurity Stock Is a Buy Right Now?
ZACKS· 2026-02-20 14:30
Core Insights - Palo Alto Networks (PANW) and Cisco Systems (CSCO) are significant players in the cybersecurity sector, with PANW focusing on next-generation firewalls, cloud security, and AI-driven threat detection, while CSCO emphasizes Threat Intelligence, Detection, and Response offerings, including Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Network Security [1][2] Industry Overview - The cybersecurity market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.28% from 2026 to 2031, driven by increasing complex attacks such as credential theft and social engineering [2] Company Analysis: Palo Alto Networks (PANW) - PANW is recognized as a leader in cybersecurity, providing comprehensive solutions for network security, cloud security, and endpoint protection [4] - The company’s SASE segment is its fastest-growing area, with Annual Recurring Revenues (ARR) increasing by 40% year-over-year in Q2 of fiscal 2026 [5] - A significant deal worth over $50 million was secured with a global automotive leader for a major security transformation, highlighting PANW's strong market position [6] - PANW faces challenges from integration and acquisition-related costs, including a $25 billion acquisition of CyberArk and a $3.35 billion acquisition of Chronosphere, leading to increased costs and potential profitability impacts [7] - The issuance of 112 million shares as part of the CyberArk deal is expected to cause significant equity dilution, with EPS guidance for fiscal 2026 revised down to $3.65-$3.70 from $3.80-$3.90 [8] Company Analysis: Cisco Systems (CSCO) - CSCO is making steady advancements in its security business, with new products like Secure Access and AI Defense gaining traction, now representing about one-third of its security portfolio [9] - The company added 2.5 million Secure Access users in Q2 of fiscal 2026, with new customer acquisitions contributing significantly to new bookings [11] - CSCO has reported three consecutive quarters of double-digit growth in firewall units, supported by new high-end firewall platforms [12] - The company is embedding AI deeper into its security offerings, enhancing its capabilities to address advanced threats [12] - CSCO's earnings estimates for fiscal 2026 and 2027 have been revised upward, with current estimates at $4.13 and $4.46, respectively [17] Market Performance - Over the past six months, CSCO shares have increased by 17.2%, while PANW shares have decreased by 17.7% [19] - CSCO is trading at a forward sales multiple of 4.95X, which is lower than PANW's 9.31X, making CSCO more attractive for value-seeking investors [21] Conclusion - The analysis suggests that CSCO presents a more compelling investment opportunity due to its steady execution, strong product adoption, and favorable earnings revisions, while PANW faces near-term risks from integration costs and share dilution [23][24]
Gildan Activewear's Q4 Earnings Approaching: What's in the Offing?
ZACKS· 2026-02-20 14:30
Core Viewpoint - Gildan Activewear Inc. (GIL) is expected to report revenue growth of 7.8% year-over-year, with a consensus estimate of $885.3 million for Q4 2025, and earnings per share estimated at 94 cents, reflecting a 13.3% increase from the previous year [1]. Group 1: Financial Performance Expectations - The consensus estimate for Gildan's revenues is $885.3 million, indicating a rise of 7.8% from the year-ago figure [1]. - The consensus estimate for earnings is 94 cents per share, which indicates a 13.3% increase from the year-ago quarter's actual [1]. - Gildan has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 2.6%, with a 2% earnings surprise in the last reported quarter [2]. Group 2: Factors Influencing Q4 Results - Gildan's results are expected to benefit from its Sustainable Growth Strategy, which includes expanding capacity, driving innovation, and advancing ESG initiatives [3]. - The company has completed the acquisition of HanesBrands, contributing to increased market share through brand strength, product innovation, and enhanced customer service [4]. - The Activewear segment is gaining momentum due to market share expansion and strong demand, which is likely to positively impact the upcoming quarter's performance [4]. Group 3: Challenges and Market Conditions - The company faces challenges from a tough operating landscape, including inflationary pressures and softness in the hosiery and underwear category [5]. - Higher operating expenses are expected to have somewhat dampened profitability in the quarter under review [5]. Group 4: Valuation and Stock Performance - Gildan has a forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio of 15.72x, which is below the industry's average of 16.41x and below its five-year high of 21.94x [7]. - Gildan shares have gained 31.2% in the past six months, significantly outperforming the industry's growth of 0.1% [7].
NEM's Earnings and Sales Top Estimates in Q4 on Higher Gold Prices
ZACKS· 2026-02-20 14:30
Key Takeaways NEM beats Q4 earnings and revenue estimates as realized gold prices surge 59.5% YoY.NEM posts $6.8B revenue, up 20.6%, while gold output hits 1.45M oz.NEM cash jumps 111% to $7.6B, debt falls 32%, and 2026 output is expected at 5.26M oz.Newmont Corporation (NEM) reported fourth-quarter 2025 earnings of $1.19 per share compared with $1.24 in the year-ago quarter.Barring one-time items, adjusted earnings were $2.52 per share, up from $1.40 reported in the prior-year quarter. It topped the Zacks ...
B vs. KGC: Which Gold Mining Stock Is the Better Pick Now?
ZACKS· 2026-02-20 14:30
Key Takeaways B expands production through projects like Goldrush, Fourmile and the Lumwana Super Pit.KGC advances Round Mountain Phase X, Bald Mountain Redbird 2 and Kettle River-Curlew projects.B and KGC maintain solid liquidity and pursue development plans supported by strong gold prices.Barrick Mining Corporation (B) and Kinross Gold Corporation (KGC) are two prominent players in the gold mining space with global operations. While gold prices have fallen from their January 2026 highs, they remain favora ...
First Solar to Release Q4 Earnings: What's in Store for the Stock?
ZACKS· 2026-02-20 14:25
Key Takeaways FSLR's Q4 EPS is projected to rise 43% YoY, with revenues expected to increase 3.9%.FSLR may benefit from its new Louisiana plant and up to $391M in 45X tax credit proceeds.FSLR is expected to face tariff-driven cost pressures and softer Malaysia, Vietnam output in Q4.First Solar (FSLR) is scheduled to release fourth-quarter 2025 results on Feb. 24, after market close. The company delivered a negative earnings surprise of 1.9% in the last reported quarter. Let’s discuss the factors that are li ...
Allot Pre-Q4 Earnings Analysis: Should You Hold or Fold the Stock?
ZACKS· 2026-02-20 14:25
Key Takeaways ALLT is expected to post Q4 revenues of $27.93M, up 12.2% Y/Y, with EPS of 7 cents.Allot's SECaaS ARR jumped about 60% Y/Y in Q3, lifting recurring revenues to 63% of total sales.ALLT trades at 4.21X forward sales, below sector and major cybersecurity peers.Allot Inc. (ALLT) is scheduled to report its fourth-quarter 2025 results on Feb. 25.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Allot’s fourth-quarter 2025 revenues is pegged at $27.93 million, which implies growth of 12.2% from the year-ago reported ...
OLED's Q4 Earnings Beat Estimates, Revenues Rise Y/Y
ZACKS· 2026-02-20 14:25
Key Takeaways OLED reported Q4 EPS of $1.39, up from 96 cents, as revenues rose to $173M and met estimates.Material sales and royalties drove growth, with green emitter sales climbing to $74M in the quarter.OLED expects revenues of $650M-$700M and gross margin of 74%-76% in 2026.Universal Display Corporation (OLED) reported relatively healthy fourth-quarter 2025 results, with adjusted earnings beating Zacks Consensus Estimate while the top line matched the same. The company reported a top-line expansion yea ...
How Drilling Tools' OneDTI Is Unlocking Value in Challenging Markets
ZACKS· 2026-02-20 14:25
Key Takeaways DTI is using its OneDTI program to unify operations and protect margins ahead of a 2025 downturn.Drilling Tools International grew Eastern Hemisphere revenues 41% year over year in Q3 2025.DTI's Compass platform and Houston facility move are boosting efficiency and lowering costs.In the cyclical oilfield services sector, execution and integration often determine which companies outperform when activity slows. Drilling Tools International (DTI) is addressing the near-term downturn by prioritizi ...
Workday Set to Report Q4 Results: Will Revenue Growth Boost Earnings?
ZACKS· 2026-02-20 14:25
Core Insights - Workday, Inc. (WDAY) is expected to report its fourth-quarter fiscal 2026 results on February 24, with a history of earnings surprises averaging 9.11% over the last four quarters [1][10] Financial Performance - The consensus estimate for revenues in the upcoming quarter is $2.52 billion, reflecting a year-over-year increase from $2.21 billion [7] - The consensus estimate for adjusted earnings per share is $2.3, up from $1.92 reported in the previous year [7] Business Developments - Workday has expanded its Workday GO solution, which simplifies deployment and enhances operational efficiency for HR and finance operations [3] - The introduction of the Workday EU Sovereign Cloud allows enterprises to adopt AI while ensuring compliance with EU data residency regulations [4] - A partnership with U.S. Tech Force aims to enhance workforce hiring in AI and advanced technologies, with notable momentum in the retail and hospitality sectors [5] - The acquisition of Sana strengthens Workday's AI-driven learning and employee development capabilities, likely benefiting future performance [6] Earnings Outlook - Workday's Earnings ESP is currently at -3.86%, indicating a lower likelihood of an earnings beat this quarter [9][10] - The company holds a Zacks Rank of 3, suggesting a hold position in the current market context [9]
Comfort Systems Q4 Earnings & Revenues Beat, Backlog Up Y/Y, Stock Up
ZACKS· 2026-02-20 14:25
Key Takeaways Comfort Systems crushed the fourth-quarter results with the EPS surging 129% and revenues growing 42% YoY.Comfort Systems' backlog nearly doubled as it rides on the robust data center demand trends.FIX's margins expanded year over year, with lifted cash flow and shareholders' returns spreading optimism.Comfort Systems USA, Inc. (FIX) delivered stellar fourth-quarter 2025 results, with adjusted earnings and revenues surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate and increasing year over year.FIX stock ...