ServiceNow Stock Down 12.8%. After Q3 Beat, $NOW May Be A Bargain

Core Viewpoint - ServiceNow's stock has experienced a decline of 12.8% in 2025, contrasting with a 22% rise in the Nasdaq, raising questions about potential buying opportunities for investors despite macroeconomic concerns and high valuations [2][3]. Financial Performance - ServiceNow reported third-quarter 2025 revenue of $3.41 billion, a 22% increase year-over-year, exceeding London Stock Exchange Group estimates by $60 million [6]. - Subscription revenues for Q3 reached $3.3 billion, surpassing StreetAccount estimates by $40 million [6]. - Adjusted earnings per share for Q3 were $4.82, exceeding LSEG consensus by 5 cents [6]. - Net income for Q3 was $502 million, reflecting a 16% increase from the previous year [6]. - Current remaining performance obligations stood at $11.35 billion, up 20.5% year-over-year, and $260 million above analyst forecasts [6]. - Full-year revenue guidance for 2025 is set at $12.845 billion, a $60 million increase from the previous quarter's guidance [6]. Growth Drivers - The AI boom has significantly contributed to ServiceNow's performance, with expectations for AI platform revenue to exceed $500 million in 2025 and on track to meet a 2026 goal of $1 billion [7]. - The company has seen strong growth in government contracts, with U.S. federal business growing over 30% in Q3 [11]. - ServiceNow's AI Control Tower is helping clients achieve returns on their AI investments, enhancing operational efficiency [12][13]. Stock Split and Market Position - ServiceNow announced a 5-for-1 stock split, aimed at making shares more affordable for retail investors, potentially increasing demand [5][15]. - The company is optimistic about attracting consumer investors interested in its AI momentum [16]. Valuation Concerns - Analysts suggest that ServiceNow's stock may be overvalued, trading at a forward price/earnings ratio of 54.69, significantly higher than the sector median of 25.22 [17]. - Competition from major players like Microsoft, Oracle, and Salesforce poses challenges, particularly if price sensitivity among buyers increases [18]. Analyst Sentiment - Despite concerns, analysts see considerable upside potential for ServiceNow's stock, with an average price target of $1,124.82, implying a potential rise of 22% [19].