Is EPAM Systems Stock Underperforming the S&P 500?

Core Viewpoint - EPAM Systems, Inc. is a significant player in the digital engineering and IT consulting sector, with a market cap of $11.6 billion, specializing in software development and AI-driven solutions [1][2]. Company Overview - EPAM is based in Newtown, Pennsylvania, and focuses on helping enterprises design, build, and modernize complex software and digital platforms [1]. - The company serves various industries, including financial services, healthcare, consumer goods, and technology [1]. Market Position - EPAM is classified as a large-cap stock due to its market cap exceeding $10 billion, indicating its size and influence in the IT services industry [2]. - The company is recognized for its strong engineering talent and delivery excellence, partnering with large global enterprises for digital transformation [2]. Stock Performance - EPAM shares have decreased by 21.1% from their 52-week high of $269, reached on February 18 [3]. - Over the past three months, EPAM shares have increased by 37.3%, underperforming the S&P 500 Index, which surged by 3% during the same period [3]. - In the long term, EPAM has fallen 13.3% over the past 52 weeks, while the S&P 500 Index has increased by 12.7% [4]. - Year-to-date, EPAM shares are down 9.3%, compared to a 15.9% rise in the S&P 500 Index [4]. Recent Developments - On December 9, EPAM shares rose approximately 3% after the announcement of seven new AI agents on the Google Cloud Marketplace, aimed at addressing complex use cases in finance, healthcare, and retail [5]. - The new solutions include KYC automation, drug discovery acceleration, and clinical trial documentation, enhancing investor confidence in EPAM's AI capabilities and collaboration with Google Cloud [5]. Competitive Landscape - EPAM has outperformed its rival, Accenture plc, which has seen a 23.4% drop over the past 52 weeks and a 21.9% loss year-to-date [6].