Cisco Systems, Inc. - CSCO STOCK NEWS

Cisco's recent surveys reveal critical insights about the challenges and opportunities in the shift to a cloud-first, remote-working environment. Key findings include that 85% of organizations deem cybersecurity more important than pre-COVID-19, with 62% facing secure access challenges. Consumer skepticism about data privacy remains high, with 60% concerned about remote tool privacy. Organizations are encouraged to enhance data security and transparency, addressing the concerns raised by both employees and consumers to build trust as remote work becomes the norm.

Cisco has launched its new Catalyst 8000 Edge Platform, a Wide Area Networking (WAN) edge solution aimed at improving secure and automated access to applications across various environments. This platform supports cloud adoption and offers flexible connectivity options, including Cisco Cellular Gateways for 5G connectivity. Adventist Health System plans to utilize this platform to enhance real-time application connectivity across its facilities. The Catalyst series includes multiple models optimized for different use cases, enhancing visibility and performance in network management.

On Oct. 7, 2020, Internet2 announced a strategic alliance with Cisco to enhance the U.S. research and education infrastructure. This agreement aims to establish a national R&E network with 400 Gbps capacity and on-demand cloud connectivity, significantly reducing carbon emissions by 668 metric tons annually. Cisco's technology, including the 8200 series routing platform, will support diverse research initiatives and improve network performance by utilizing advanced software orchestration.

Cisco has announced new Webex innovations aimed at enhancing remote and in-office work experiences. A global survey found that 95% of employees are uncomfortable returning to the office due to the ongoing health crisis. Key updates include improved video meeting features, new environmental sensors, and the Webex Room Navigator for smarter meeting management. These innovations are designed to optimize workspace utilization and ensure safety as companies prepare for a hybrid work model. Cisco's goal is to create a collaboration experience that is significantly better than in-person meetings.

Cisco announced the completion of its acquisition of BabbleLabs, aimed at enhancing video meeting experiences through advanced noise removal and speech enhancement technology. This AI-driven technology, currently in customer trials, is set for general availability for Webex Meetings and select Webex Room devices in October. The integration is expected to deliver superior audio quality for users, contributing to a smarter and more productive experience on the Webex platform.

Cisco will host a conference call on October 5, 2020, at 8:00 am PT featuring speakers Gee Rittenhouse and Rakesh Chopra to discuss next-generation security and silicon architectures. The event will be moderated by Paul Silverstein from Cowen. A webcast will be available, with a replay accessible one month later. Participants can find details on Cisco's Investor Relations website. Notably, no financial information will be disclosed during the call.

Cisco announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per common share, payable on October 21, 2020, to shareholders on record as of the close of business on October 2, 2020. This dividend matches the previous quarterly payment made on July 22, 2020. The declaration reflects Cisco's commitment to returning capital to shareholders while remaining subject to future Board approval.

The 2020 Small Business Digital Maturity Study, commissioned by Cisco, reveals that small businesses could contribute $2.3 trillion to global GDP by 2024, driven by digitalization efforts accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Approximately 70% of businesses are enhancing digital capabilities to navigate changes and improve revenue resilience. The study indicates that small businesses in North America and Western Europe are more digitally advanced, with only 25% achieving the highest maturity stage. Key challenges include cashflow issues and a skills shortage, underscoring the necessity of technology adoption for survival.

Cisco announced its participation in several financial community conferences in September 2020. The events include the Citi 2020 Global Technology Conference on September 10, featuring Jonathan Davidson, and the JP Morgan U.S. All Stars Conference on September 16, with Wendy Mars. Webcasts for sessions can be accessed via Cisco's Investor Relations website. This engagement showcases Cisco's ongoing commitment to transparency and investor relations amidst its leadership in Internet technology.