Analysts Bullish on PANW as AI-Driven Cybersecurity Demand Accelerates

Core Insights - Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (PANW) is recognized as a significant AI stock on Wall Street, with a price target raised to $248.00 by BTIG analyst Gray Powerll, maintaining a Buy rating following a strong Q1 performance and a strategic acquisition [1][4]. Financial Performance - PANW reported quarterly revenue of $2,474 million, exceeding both BTIG's and Wall Street's estimates of $2,462 million, driven by better-than-expected product revenue and slightly above forecasted services revenue [2]. - The company's Next-Generation Security Annual Recurring Revenue (NGS ARR) reached $5,850 million, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 29.4% with net additions of $270 million, surpassing prior estimates and Street consensus [3]. Guidance and Strategic Moves - PANW raised the midpoint of its FY26 revenue guidance by $20 million to $10,520 million, representing a 14.1% year-over-year growth, while maintaining its NGS ARR outlook [4]. - A notable development was PANW's announcement of a $3.35 billion acquisition of Chronosphere, which is viewed as a valuable asset with synergies to PANW's existing products [4]. Estimates - The firm has made minimal changes to its FY26 and FY27 revenue and free cash flow estimates, indicating stability in financial projections [5].