International Business Machines Corporation - IBM STOCK NEWS

IBM (NYSE: IBM) has announced its acquisition of Taos, a prominent cloud professional and managed services provider. This move enhances IBM's hybrid cloud capabilities, positioning it strategically in the growing cloud services market, projected to exceed $200 billion by 2024. Taos, with extensive partnerships and over 300 certifications, strengthens IBM's consulting services in North America. The transaction, expected to close in the first quarter of 2021, aims to facilitate clients' transitions to hybrid cloud environments and drive growth in IBM's cloud offerings.

IBM and Audi UK have partnered to revamp Audi's website, enhancing the digital customer experience amid a challenging market. In 2020, Audi reported a 59% increase in online sales inquiries, despite a 30% industry decline in new UK car sales due to the pandemic. This transformation adapted to a contact-less purchasing model, integrating data analytics and agile practices. The project resulted in significant improvements including a 90% reduction in customer submission errors and faster feature delivery, ultimately positioning Audi UK as a leader in digital sales within the VW Group.

IBM (NYSE: IBM) partners with Covalent to utilize IBM Blockchain technology on IBM LinuxONE, allowing consumers to track the carbon footprint and supply chain of eco-friendly fashion accessories made from AirCarbon. Covalent's products are certified as carbon-negative, appealing to the growing number of consumers interested in sustainable products. A unique blockchain-based 'Carbon Date' enables traceability for each product, enhancing consumer trust and knowledge regarding their purchases.

IBM has achieved a milestone by securing 9,130 U.S. patents in 2020, maintaining its lead for 28 consecutive years. The patents focus on critical domains including artificial intelligence, cloud computing, quantum computing, and cybersecurity. Notably, IBM's initiatives in AI led to over 2,300 patents, and it also secured more than 3,000 patents related to hybrid cloud technologies. The company continues to innovate, emphasizing the importance of scientific research and its commitment to R&D, as articulated by Darío Gil, SVP and Director of IBM Research.

IBM has acquired 7Summits, a leading Salesforce consultancy, enhancing its Salesforce services and experience design capabilities. This strategic move aligns with IBM's hybrid cloud and AI initiatives to facilitate digital transformation across industries. 7Summits will integrate into IBM Global Business Services, expanding its consulting and application development capabilities. The collaboration aims to address rising client demand for innovative solutions, leveraging data and AI. Financial details of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Cyware, a leader in Virtual Cyber Fusion Center technology, announced a follow-on investment in its Series A funding round due to overwhelming demand for its platform. The funding round saw participation from prominent cybersecurity leaders like Greg Clark and Tom Noonan. Cyware aims to enhance its cybersecurity operations by leveraging advanced technologies, including security orchestration and automation, to support teams in optimizing security processes. This follows recent executive appointments to strengthen its leadership and growth strategy.

IBM has appointed Martin Schroeter as the new CEO of its Managed Infrastructure Services business, referred to as NewCo, effective January 15, 2021. The spin-off is expected to finalize by the end of 2021. Schroeter previously held key roles at IBM, including Senior Vice President of Global Markets and Chief Financial Officer. He brings extensive industry knowledge and leadership experience, which positions him well to lead NewCo in modernizing IT infrastructure globally. IBM's Chairman emphasized Schroeter's strategic vision as essential for the company's future success.

IBM (NYSE: IBM) announced a strategic collaboration with Avertra to accelerate digital transformation in the energy and utilities sector. Avertra will utilize IBM Cloud, leveraging IBM's $1B investment in its ecosystem through the Cloud Engagement Fund. Their MiCustomer Digital Experience platform will enhance customer engagement from meter reading to billing, optimizing operational efficiency and reducing costs. This initiative reflects the growing trend of cloud adoption in the energy sector to better meet digitally-savvy consumer demands.

On January 5, 2021, IBM announced a collaboration with Harris-Stowe State University, committing over $2 million to enhance educational resources in artificial intelligence and open hybrid cloud technology. This initiative aims to train students and faculty in emerging technologies, addressing the demand for skills in areas like AI, data science, and cybersecurity. The partnership supports HBCU students' career readiness, reflecting IBM's ongoing investment in diverse talent and commitment to social justice and economic opportunity.