Can Prisma AIRS Become Palo Alto Networks' Next Major Growth Engine?

Core Insights - Palo Alto Networks (PANW) is enhancing its focus on artificial intelligence (AI) model security, addressing the rapid adoption of AI in enterprises while many still lack adequate security measures [1][10] Group 1: Product Development and Integration - PANW launched Prisma AIRS 2.0 in Q1 FY26, integrating Protect AI for comprehensive AI protection, including real-time security for AI agents [2][10] - The partnership with Google Cloud was expanded in December 2025, integrating Prisma AIRS with Google Cloud's AI services, enhancing security for AI models and agents [3][10] - Prisma AIRS has also been integrated with other platforms like Factory, Glean, IBM, and ServiceNow, securing AI agents within existing customer tools [3] Group 2: Market Adoption and Financial Performance - The number of Prisma AIRS deals more than doubled sequentially in Q1 FY26, indicating increasing adoption and potential for future growth [4][10] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate predicts revenue growth of approximately 14.1% for fiscal 2026 and 13.2% for fiscal 2027 [4] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Competitors such as CrowdStrike and SentinelOne are expanding their platforms and innovating with AI, with CrowdStrike integrating Charlotte AI into its security offerings [5][6] - SentinelOne reported a 23% year-over-year growth in annual recurring revenues, driven by the adoption of its AI-first platform [7] Group 4: Valuation and Earnings Estimates - PANW's shares have decreased by 9.9% over the past six months, compared to a 12.3% decline in the Zacks Security industry [8] - The company trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 11.21X, below the industry average of 12.22X [12] - Earnings estimates for fiscal 2026 and 2027 suggest year-over-year growth of 14.9% and 12.3%, respectively, with recent upward revisions [15]