IBM

IBM will reduce its global workforce by a low single-digit percentage in Q4, impacting around 2,700 positions. This realignment, driven by advancements in AI, mirrors similar moves by other tech giants like Amazon and Meta. Despite the cuts, IBM anticipates flat U.S. employment year-over-year. The company reported strong earnings and is actively diversifying into cloud computing, AI, and consulting under CEO Arvind Krishna, who has emphasized AI’s role in optimizing workflows. Previous staff reductions occurred in marketing and communications in March 2024.

AMD shares surged after reports that IBM successfully used AMD’s FPGAs to run a quantum error correction algorithm. IBM confirmed the development, considering it a milestone in their aim to build a large-scale quantum computer by 2029. The breakthrough simplifies quantum computing by using conventional chips, potentially reducing costs. The news also boosted IBM’s stock and other quantum computing companies like D-Wave, Rigetti, and IonQ. This highlights the advancements in heterogeneous computing for quantum applications.

IBM reported a strong Q3, exceeding expectations with adjusted EPS of $2.65 and revenue of $16.33 billion. Revenue grew 9% year-over-year, driven by AI traction, with AI-related bookings surpassing $9.5 billion. IBM raised its full-year revenue growth forecast to “more than” 5% and free cash flow to $14 billion. Software and Consulting revenues also performed well, with Infrastructure experiencing a significant increase. Despite the positive results, shares dipped in after-hours trading.