Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for the quarter was $18.7 billion, reflecting a 5% growth in local currency and a 6% increase in U.S. dollars, at the top of the guided range [17][19] - Adjusted operating margin expanded by 30 basis points year over year to 17% [18][22] - Adjusted EPS grew by 10% year over year to $3.94 [18][22] - Free cash flow for the quarter was $1.5 billion, with a cash balance of $9.6 billion at the end of the quarter [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - New bookings totaled $20.9 billion, representing a 12% growth in U.S. dollars and a 10% growth in local currency [18][19] - Consulting revenues were $9.4 billion, growing 4% in U.S. dollars and 3% in local currency [19] - Managed Services revenues reached $9.3 billion, with an 8% increase in U.S. dollars and 7% in local currency [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Americas, revenue grew 4% in local currency, with a 6% growth excluding federal business impacts [20] - EMEA delivered 4% growth in local currency, driven by banking and capital markets, insurance, and life sciences [20] - Asia-Pacific revenue grew 9% in local currency, led by banking and capital markets, communications and media, and public service [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on large transformational programs for clients, emphasizing the importance of a modern digital core [25][26] - Advanced AI is increasingly embedded in solutions, with a significant focus on integrating multiple forms of AI [11][36] - The partnership strategy is grounded in client demand, with 60% of revenue in Q1 coming from work with top 10 ecosystem partners [12][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that clients are prioritizing strategic and large-scale transformational programs, with no significant changes in discretionary spending observed [25][72] - The demand for advanced AI is rapidly maturing, with expectations for significant growth in the total addressable market for advanced AI [34] - The company expects revenue growth for fiscal 2026 to be in the range of 2%-5% in local currency, with an inorganic contribution of about 1.5% [39][40] Other Important Information - The company recorded $308 million in business optimization costs, impacting operating margin and EPS [21][22] - The company announced an agreement to acquire a 65% majority stake in DLB Associates, expanding its capabilities in the data center professional services market [14][15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Shift in consulting industry's role in AI - Management acknowledged a shift in perception, emphasizing that enterprise AI adoption requires foundational work around security and data management [43][44] Question: Timing for AI partnerships to impact revenue - Management indicated that the partnerships are part of a broader ecosystem and enterprise adoption will drive revenue growth [51][52] Question: Sustainability of revenue growth outpacing headcount growth - Management confirmed that revenue per person grew 7%, driven by talent rotation and hiring for new skills [56][57] Question: Discretionary spending outlook - Management stated that they are not waiting for discretionary spending to return, focusing instead on delivering results despite market conditions [71][72] Question: Fixed-price work growth potential - Management expressed confidence in the competitive advantage of fixed-price deals, noting that they provide clients with confidence in outcome delivery [73][74]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for the quarter was $18.7 billion, reflecting a 5% growth in local currency and a 6% increase in U.S. dollars, at the top of the guided range [17][19] - Adjusted operating margin expanded by 30 basis points year over year to 17% [18][22] - Adjusted EPS grew by 10% year over year to $3.94 [18][22] - Free cash flow for the quarter was $1.5 billion, with a cash balance of $9.6 billion [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - New bookings totaled $20.9 billion, representing a 12% growth in U.S. dollars and a 10% growth in local currency [18][19] - Consulting revenues were $9.4 billion, growing 4% in U.S. dollars and 3% in local currency [19] - Managed services revenues reached $9.3 billion, with an 8% increase in U.S. dollars and 7% in local currency [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Americas, revenue grew 4% in local currency, with a 6% growth excluding federal business impacts [20] - EMEA saw a 4% growth in local currency, driven by banking and capital markets [20] - Asia-Pacific revenue grew 9% in local currency, led by banking and capital markets [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on being a reinvention partner for clients, emphasizing large-scale transformational programs [25] - Advanced AI is increasingly embedded in solutions, with a significant focus on data management and modernization [26][36] - The partnership strategy is crucial, with 60% of revenue coming from top ecosystem partners, which is expected to continue driving growth [12][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that clients are prioritizing strategic transformational programs despite a lack of change in discretionary spending [72] - The demand for advanced AI is growing, with expectations for significant market expansion in the coming years [34] - The company anticipates revenue growth of 2-5% in local currency for fiscal 2026, with a focus on maintaining strong cash returns to shareholders [39][40] Other Important Information - The company recorded $308 million in business optimization costs, impacting operating margin and EPS [21] - The company plans to invest approximately $3 billion in acquisitions for fiscal 2026 [39] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Shift in consulting industry's role in AI - Management acknowledged a shift in perception, emphasizing that enterprise AI adoption requires foundational work around data and processes [43][44] Question: Timing for AI partnerships to impact revenue - Management indicated that the impact of AI partnerships on revenue is tied to enterprise adoption, which is expected to evolve over time [51][52] Question: Sustainability of revenue growth outpacing headcount growth - Management confirmed that revenue per person grew 7%, driven by talent rotation, and expects this trend to moderate [56][57] Question: Discretionary spending outlook - Management stated that they are not waiting for discretionary spending to return, focusing instead on delivering results through large transformational deals [72] Question: Fixed-price work growth potential - Management expressed confidence in the competitive advantage of fixed-price deals, noting that they provide clients with certainty in outcomes [74][75]

Group 1: Market Overview - Global equity markets experienced significant growth in Q3 2025, with the MSCI ACWI Index increasing by 7.62% [1] - Global fixed income markets also saw an uptick, as evidenced by a 0.60% rise in the Bloomberg Global Aggregate Bond Index during the same period [1] Group 2: Fund Performance - The Aristotle International Equity Fund (Class I-2) reported a return of 1.15% for the quarter, underperforming compared to the MSCI ACWI ex USA Index, which returned 6.89%, and the MSCI EAFE Index, which returned 4.77% [1] Group 3: Accenture plc Analysis - Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) was highlighted as a significant detractor in the investor letter, with a one-month return of 8.69% but a substantial 25.28% decline over the past 52 weeks [2][3] - The company's revenue from AI-related services nearly doubled to $5.9 billion in fiscal 2025, but concerns about the impact of AI on its outsourcing business have arisen, particularly due to its reliance on billable hours [3] - Federal contracts, which historically account for about 8% of Accenture's revenue, have been affected by the U.S. government's DOGE initiative, adding to the company's challenges [3] - Despite these issues, Accenture is investing in its workforce, employing approximately 77,000 AI and data specialists, and is returning capital to shareholders through a 10% year-over-year increase in dividends and a 15% increase in share buybacks [3] - The current valuation of Accenture shares is at a 10-year low, despite earnings per share and free cash flow being over 50% and 40% higher than mid-2020 levels, respectively [3]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for the first quarter reached $18.7 billion, growing 5% in local currency, with adjusted EPS growth of 10% compared to the same quarter last year [6][17][20] - Adjusted operating margin expanded by 30 basis points year over year, reaching 17% [7][17] - Free cash flow for the quarter was $1.5 billion, with a cash balance of $9.6 billion at the end of the quarter [21][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - New bookings totaled $20.9 billion, representing 12% growth in U.S. dollars and 10% growth in local currency [16][17] - Consulting revenues were $9.4 billion, growing 4% in U.S. dollars and 3% in local currency, while managed services revenues were $9.3 billion, growing 8% in U.S. dollars and 7% in local currency [18] - Advanced AI bookings reached $2.2 billion, nearly doubling from the previous year, with revenue of approximately $1.1 billion [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue growth in the Americas was 4% in local currency, with a 6% growth excluding federal business impacts [18][19] - EMEA saw 4% growth in local currency, driven by banking and capital markets, while Asia-Pacific experienced 9% growth, led by Japan and Australia [19] - The demand for reinvention remains strong, with 60% of revenue in Q1 coming from work with top 10 ecosystem partners [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be the most client-focused, AI-enabled workplace, emphasizing the importance of partnerships and strategic acquisitions to enhance capabilities [5][14] - Recent acquisitions include a 65% stake in DLB Associates, expanding capabilities in the AI data center engineering market [14] - The focus is on embedding advanced AI across various solutions, moving beyond standalone projects to integrated end-to-end solutions [10][34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that clients are prioritizing large-scale transformational programs, with no significant changes in discretionary spending observed [24][66] - The company expects revenue growth for fiscal 2026 to be in the range of 2-5% in local currency, with an inorganic contribution of about 1.5% from acquisitions [37][39] - The outlook for adjusted diluted earnings per share for fiscal 2026 is projected to be between $13.52 and $13.90, reflecting 5-8% growth over the previous fiscal year [38][39] Other Important Information - The company recorded $308 million in business optimization costs related to employee severance, impacting operating margin and EPS [20] - The company continues to invest significantly in talent and technology, with nearly 80,000 AI and data professionals targeted [7][8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Shift in consulting industry's role in AI - Management acknowledged a shift in perception, emphasizing that enterprise AI adoption requires foundational work around data and processes [42][44] Question: Revenue impact of AI partnerships - Management indicated that partnerships are crucial for enterprise adoption and will contribute to revenue as the market evolves [50][51] Question: Sustainability of revenue per head growth - Management confirmed a 7% growth in revenue per person, driven by talent rotation, but expects moderation as new hires are integrated [52][54] Question: Discretionary spending outlook - Management stated that they are not waiting for discretionary spending to return, focusing instead on delivering results despite current market conditions [65][66] Question: Fixed-price work growth potential - Management expressed confidence in the competitive advantage of fixed-price contracts, which have increased significantly, and noted ongoing evolution in commercial models [67][68]

Core Insights - Accenture reported quarterly earnings of $3.94 per share, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.73 per share, and showing an increase from $3.59 per share a year ago, resulting in an earnings surprise of +5.63% [1] - The company achieved revenues of $18.74 billion for the quarter ended November 2025, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.03% and up from $17.69 billion year-over-year [2] Financial Performance - Over the last four quarters, Accenture has surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times and topped revenue estimates four times [2] - The current consensus EPS estimate for the upcoming quarter is $2.96 on revenues of $17.79 billion, and for the current fiscal year, it is $13.76 on revenues of $73.75 billion [7] Market Position - Accenture shares have underperformed the market, losing about 22.2% since the beginning of the year, while the S&P 500 has gained 14.3% [3] - The Zacks Industry Rank for Computers - IT Services, which includes Accenture, is currently in the top 36% of over 250 Zacks industries, indicating a favorable industry outlook [8] Future Outlook - The sustainability of Accenture's stock price movement will depend on management's commentary during the earnings call and the trends in earnings estimate revisions [3][4] - The estimate revisions trend for Accenture was mixed ahead of the earnings release, resulting in a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) for the stock, suggesting it is expected to perform in line with the market in the near future [6]

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Core Insights - The article discusses the evolving landscape of consumer behavior in China, emphasizing the shift from passive acceptance to active engagement in the market, driven by changing values, emotional connections, and technological advancements [1][2]. Group 1: Changes in Consumer Preferences - Domestic brands are gaining popularity, with consumers prioritizing local products over international ones. For instance, the percentage of consumers preferring domestic beauty and skincare brands rose from 12% in 2021 to 43% in 2025, while preference for domestic 3C digital products increased from 23% to 55%, and for home appliances from 33% to 69% [3]. - Consumers are re-evaluating their life priorities, focusing more on health and financial stability. The proportion of consumers valuing health increased by 9 percentage points to 87%, and those valuing wealth rose by 12 percentage points to 47% [8]. Group 2: Shifts in Information Channels and Brand Loyalty - The channels through which consumers obtain shopping information are diversifying, with traditional marketing methods becoming less effective. E-commerce platforms remain the primary source for 60% of consumers, but video platforms like Douyin and Kuaishou have become significant, with usage rising to about 50% [9]. - Brand loyalty is diminishing, with 55% of consumers frequently comparing multiple brands even if they have a favorite, an increase of 13 percentage points since 2021. Nearly 70% of consumers feel indifferent or resistant to marketing content [10]. Group 3: The Role of AI in Consumer Behavior - AI is becoming a crucial factor in consumer decision-making, with nearly 80% of Chinese consumers using AI weekly or daily. About 37% have utilized AI tools in shopping, primarily for assistance in unfamiliar categories or for quick comparisons [10][21]. - Brands must adapt to interact with AI as a representative of consumers, providing structured and accurate content to influence AI-generated recommendations, which will affect brand visibility and conversion rates [18][21]. Group 4: Brand Strategies in a Changing Landscape - Brands are encouraged to demonstrate tangible value to consumers, moving beyond just price to emphasize visible and verifiable product benefits. This shift is evident in the focus on quantifiable effects and scientific backing in product descriptions [12][15]. - Creating integrated experiences that resonate emotionally with consumers is essential. Brands should aim for a multi-channel ecosystem that combines online and offline experiences, enhancing consumer engagement and satisfaction [16]. Group 5: Consumer Expectations and Brand Accountability - Consumers are increasingly seeking stability and meaningful engagement from brands, evaluating their relevance, consistency, and ability to fulfill promises. This reflects a deeper human need for trust and connection [22]. - Companies aiming to capture the Chinese consumer market face challenges from outdated growth models but also have opportunities to respond effectively to these profound changes with courage and adaptability [22].

Financial Performance - Total revenues reached $18.7 billion, a 5% increase in local currency[2] - Adjusted earnings per share increased by 10% to $3.94, excluding a $0.40 per share business optimization impact[3] - Adjusted operating margin increased by 30 bps to 17.0%, excluding a 170 bps business optimization impact[4] - Free cash flow was $1.5 billion[5] Revenue Breakdown - Consulting revenues were $9.4 billion, a 3% increase in local currency[3] - Managed Services revenues were $9.3 billion, a 7% increase in local currency[3] - Americas revenues were $9.1 billion, a 4% increase in local currency[2] - EMEA revenues were $6.9 billion, a 4% increase in local currency[2] - Asia Pacific revenues were $2.7 billion, a 9% increase in local currency[2] - Communications, Media & Technology revenues were $3.1 billion, an 8% increase in local currency[2] - Financial Services revenues were $3.6 billion, a 12% increase in local currency[2] Cash Return and Bookings - $1 billion was paid in dividends and $2.3 billion in share repurchases[5] - New bookings totaled $20.9 billion, reflecting 10% local currency growth, with a book-to-bill ratio of 1.1[5] AI and Ecosystem - Advanced AI bookings were $2.2 billion, with revenues of $1.1 billion, representing YoY growth of 76% and 120% respectively in USD[22] - Over 60% of revenue was driven by the top 10 ecosystem partners in Q1 FY26[11] Fiscal Year 2026 Outlook - Revenue growth in local currency is projected to be between 2% and 5%[8] - Adjusted earnings per share are expected to increase by 5% to 8% over FY25, reaching $13.52 - $13.90[8] - Free cash flow is projected to be between $9.8 billion and $10.5 billion[8] - At least $9.3 billion of cash is expected to be returned to shareholders, a 12% or $1 billion increase over FY25[29]

Core Insights - The technology consulting company reported higher first-quarter sales driven by growth in its AI business [1] Group 1 - The increase in sales is attributed to the expansion of the company's AI offerings [1]

Accenture stock was rising early on Thursday after it reported earnings and revenue ahead of expectations, while confirming its outlook. ...