On September 2, 2026, analyst firm Bernstein confirmed its "Outperform" rating for Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW). Palo Alto Networks is a global cybersecurity company that provides advanced firewalls and cloud-based security solutions to protect businesses from cyber threats. At the time of the rating, Palo Alto Networks' stock price was $362.09 per share.
The positive rating is supported by Palo Alto Networks' strong financial performance. Palo Alto Networks reported record remaining performance obligations (RPO) of $21.2 billion, a 34% increase from the previous year. RPO represents the total value of contracted future revenue that has not yet been billed, indicating a strong pipeline of future business.
Growth is also strong in its newer security offerings. Palo Alto Networks' Next-Generation Security (NGS) annual recurring revenue (ARR) increased to $9.1 billion, a 63% jump. ARR measures the predictable revenue a company expects to receive from subscriptions in a year, showing high demand for its modern security platforms.
As highlighted by Reuters, Palo Alto Networks also acquired the AI-native platform Console. Palo Alto Networks' CEO notes that advancements in artificial intelligence are making cybersecurity a higher priority for corporate leaders. This strategy is driving customer adoption, with Palo Alto Networks adding nearly 220 new platform customers in the last quarter.
According to Proactive Investors, Palo Alto Networks' fiscal fourth-quarter revenue was $3.41 billion, beating estimates of $3.35 billion. Adjusted earnings per share reached $1.02, which was also ahead of the $0.98 analysts expected. For fiscal 2027, Palo Alto Networks projects revenue between $14.10 billion and $14.20 billion, exceeding current estimates.