International Business Machines Corporation - IBM STOCK NEWS

IBM has entered a multiyear agreement with the Port of Los Angeles to establish a Port Cyber Resilience Center (CRC), aimed at enhancing cybersecurity readiness and threat sharing among supply chain stakeholders. The $6.8 million contract will utilize IBM Cloud Pak for Security and X-Force Threat Intelligence. This initiative will automate threat collaboration and improve responsiveness to cyber threats, ultimately supporting the Port's infrastructure investment program. The CRC serves as an early warning system, fostering collective knowledge and improving operational resilience against potential cyber incidents.

IBM (NYSE: IBM) announced a partnership with ABB to enhance its procurement processes through the launch of SmartBuy, a comprehensive employee purchasing program. This initiative aims to simplify procurement, offering a user-friendly experience similar to online shopping while automating supplier management tasks. Utilizing SAP Ariba solutions, SmartBuy supports ABB's goal of transforming its Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, paving the way for future integration of AI and blockchain technology. IBM's strong expertise with SAP enhances the project's potential.

IBM (NYSE: IBM) and The Piaggio Group (PIA.MI) have successfully completed a project to transition Piaggio's management applications to SAP S/4HANA. This upgrade enhances internal processes, providing flexible order management and real-time data analysis across Piaggio's six global industrial hubs. Initiated in Q1 2020, the migration was achieved despite COVID-19 challenges, ensuring readiness before the peak sales season. This project marks a pivotal step in Piaggio's evolution into a cognitive enterprise, leveraging technology for improved efficiency and competitiveness.

IBM (NYSE: IBM) has been recognized as a leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Advanced Machine Learning Software Platforms 2020 Vendor Assessment. The report, published in October 2020, highlights IBM's Watson portfolio, which provides advanced machine learning capabilities globally. It emphasizes the importance of IBM's Watson in business transformation, particularly in hybrid cloud environments, and notes the value of collaboration between IBM Research and its product offerings. IBM's AI tools are instrumental for organizations navigating changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

IBM has been recognized as a Leader in the 2020 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Cloud Database Management Systems. This inaugural report highlights IBM's strong offerings, including Db2 on Cloud, which features AI capabilities for managing both structured and unstructured data in hybrid environments. Gartner praised IBM's hybrid cloud integration, its AI functionalities in Db2, and its portfolio's competitive positioning compared to AWS, Microsoft, and Google. The report emphasizes opportunities for innovation in the growing cloud-focused DBMS market.

IBM has been recognized as a leader in The Forrester Wave™: Security Analytics Platforms, Q4 2020 report, ranking highest in the current offering category among 11 providers. The report highlights IBM's ability to build an open security platform on the cloud, facilitating faster deployment of new capabilities and reduced management overhead. Key offerings include IBM Security QRadar Advisor with Watson and X-Force threat intelligence. Forrester also commended IBM's global reach, technical support, and innovation in security analytics.

IBM has announced advanced cloud services aimed at enhancing data security with quantum-safe cryptography and Hyper Protect Crypto Services. These offerings are designed to protect sensitive data against future threats posed by quantum computing advancements. Key features include quantum-safe algorithms for data transmission and enhanced encryption for cloud applications. The services are built on FIPS 140-2 Level 4-certified hardware to ensure the highest security standards. IBM emphasizes its commitment to data privacy and security for enterprises, especially in regulated industries.

IBM, in partnership with ASPI Tech and Fincantieri NexTech, has launched a new AI and IoT-based monitoring system for civil infrastructure in Italy. This system, utilizing IBM Maximo, aims to enhance surveillance of over 4,500 structures, including bridges and tunnels. Key features include real-time data updates for civil engineers via mobile devices and advanced technologies like 3D digital modeling and digital twins. The initiative is part of a €60 million investment to improve asset management, efficiency, and safety standards in transportation.

IBM has announced an expansion of its IBM Z skills initiatives with a new nationwide IT Infrastructure apprenticeship accelerator program. This program aims to recruit and train candidates with no prior technology experience for roles such as system administrators and application developers. Partnering with Franklin Apprenticeships and the Urban Institute, IBM will provide clients with a no-charge apprenticeship accelerator, including over 300 hours of virtual training. M&T Bank is the inaugural employer partner, planning to hire 10 apprentices starting in January 2021.