Accenture PLC - ACN STOCK NEWS

Accenture Federal Services (AFS), a subsidiary of Accenture (NYSE: ACN), has secured a $50 million contract from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This five-year blanket purchase agreement mandates AFS to modernize and maintain the agency’s financial management systems for the Office of the Chief Financial Officer. AFS will enhance various systems, including the Enterprise Data Warehouse and reporting tools, while also implementing advanced technologies like AI and machine learning, furthering its commitment to support USPTO's mission.

New research from Accenture (NYSE: ACN) reveals that 61% of industrial owner-operators foresee delays or indefinite holds on new projects due to COVID-19 impacts. The report titled "Building Value with Capital Projects" highlights that while 79% of executives utilize data analytics, only 34% reported cost reductions on completed projects. Additionally, 24% of owner-operators and 14% of EPCs outperformed industry peers in productivity. Key strategies such as strong data leadership and incentive-based contracts could yield a 6.6% increase in return on capital investment for owner-operators.

Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has been recognized as a Leader in both Market Impact and Vision & Capability in the inaugural Everest Group PEAK Matrix® for System Integrator Capabilities on Microsoft Azure Services, 2021. The report highlights Accenture's strong position in the Azure service market, noting its broad offerings and significant investments alongside joint venture Avanade. Key strengths include a large pool of certified professionals and effective client management, enabling faster cloud migrations and ongoing innovation.

Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has acquired Real Protect, a Brazil-based provider of managed security and cyber defense services, enhancing its cybersecurity capabilities in Latin America. Real Protect, founded in 2005 with around 90 cybersecurity professionals, specializes in threat monitoring and incident-response services. This acquisition follows Accenture's previous expansions in cybersecurity, aiming to tackle increasing cybercrime in Brazil, projected to cost businesses over $100 billion by 2023. Real Protect's CEO will lead Accenture's Managed Security Services in the region.

Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has been recognized as a Leader and Star Performer in application and digital services for the life and annuities insurance sector by Everest Group. This acknowledgment is based on a comprehensive analysis of 21 IT service providers, evaluating factors like market impact, capability, and vision. Recognized for its ability to help insurers adapt to emerging technologies, Accenture's services are increasingly vital as demand for personalized digital solutions rises due to the pandemic. The report provides insights that help businesses assess their service provider options.

Accenture's recent report reveals that 99% of CFOs recognize the importance of real-time data, yet only 16% are effectively utilizing it. The survey of 450 finance leaders identifies key challenges for 2021, including rising interest rates (49%), pandemic disruptions (47%), and talent retention (42%). Despite these concerns, 33% of finance budgets are being allocated to real-time operations, with larger firms committing 50%. The report emphasizes that implementing real-time processes is crucial for agility and growth, though 58% of CFOs cite talent acquisition as a major hurdle.

Accenture (ACN) reported Q1 FY21 revenues of $11.8 billion, up 4% YoY. The revenue growth was impacted by a 2% decline from reimbursable travel costs. GAAP diluted EPS rose to $2.32, an 11% increase. New bookings reached $12.9 billion, a 25% increase YoY. Consulting revenues decreased 1%, while outsourcing rose 9%. Looking ahead, the company anticipates Q2 revenues between $11.55 and $11.95 billion and full-year EPS of $8.17 to $8.40. The strong cash flow and substantial shareholder return were highlighted.

Generali Group and Accenture have launched a joint venture called Group Operations Service Platform (GOSP) to enhance Generali's digital and innovation strategies. Accenture holds a 5% stake and will deploy 40 professionals specializing in cloud, AI, and big data. GOSP aims to digitize Generali's business processes and implement a cloud-centric model, enhancing operational efficiency and profitability. This partnership is aligned with Generali's 2021 Strategic Plan, focusing on innovation in insurance services and improving customer experiences.