Palo Alto Networks Q2 Preview: 10th Straight Double Beat Expected — Will That Reverse Stock Slump?

Core Viewpoint - Analysts expect Palo Alto Networks to report Q2 revenue of $2.58 billion, an increase from $2.26 billion, and earnings per share of 76 cents, down from 81 cents in the same quarter last year [1][2] Financial Performance - The company has beaten analyst estimates for revenue for nine consecutive quarters [1] - Analysts anticipate earnings per share to decline, marking a potential shift in performance metrics [1] - Company guidance indicates expected revenue between $2.57 billion and $2.59 billion and earnings per share between 93 to 95 cents [2] Analyst Ratings - Analysts have been lowering their price targets ahead of the quarterly results, with several firms maintaining their ratings but adjusting targets downward [3][8] - Mizuho lowered its price target from $220 to $205 while maintaining an Outperform rating [8] - Other firms like BTIG, DA Davidson, JPMorgan, and Barclays also adjusted their price targets downward while maintaining their ratings [8] Strategic Moves - Palo Alto Networks announced plans to acquire Koi, an agentic endpoint security company, to address new challenges in cybersecurity [4][5] - The acquisition is part of a broader strategy to enhance the company's offerings in the AI era, as traditional security measures may not suffice against modern threats [4][7] - The company has recently completed other acquisitions, including Chronosphere and CyberArk, which may not fully impact the upcoming quarterly results [5][6] Market Sentiment - Shares of Palo Alto Networks have decreased by 22.6% over the last year, with current stock price at $161.24, down 3.4% on the day [10] - Investors are looking for strong guidance and performance in the upcoming earnings report to restore optimism [9]