Cisco Systems Earnings Preview: What to Expect

Core Viewpoint - Cisco Systems, Inc. is experiencing significant growth and diversification, with strong earnings expectations and a bullish analyst outlook, driven by its expansion into software and services, particularly in AI infrastructure [1][5][6]. Financial Performance - Cisco is expected to report a fiscal second-quarter earnings per share (EPS) of $0.82, reflecting a 6.5% increase from $0.77 in the same quarter last year [2]. - For the fiscal year ending July 2026, analysts project an EPS of $3.30, up 7.5% from $3.07 in fiscal 2025, with further growth expected to $3.53 in fiscal 2027 [3]. Stock Performance - Cisco shares have increased by 25.4% over the past year, outperforming the S&P 500 Index's 18.6% gains but lagging behind the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund's 27.1% gains [4]. - The stock recently reached a record closing price of $80.25, marking its first all-time high since the dot-com era peak in 2000 [5]. Analyst Sentiment - The consensus opinion on Cisco stock is moderately bullish, with a "Moderate Buy" rating from analysts. Out of 24 analysts, 13 recommend a "Strong Buy," one suggests a "Moderate Buy," and 10 give a "Hold" rating [6]. - The average analyst price target for Cisco is $85.90, indicating a potential upside of 15.4% from current levels [6].