Key Takeaways:
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- Cisco Systems increased its fiscal year revenue forecast to $56.5 billion–$56.7 billion, up from $56 billion–$56.5 billion, surpassing analyst expectations of $56.4 billion.
- Fiscal Q3 profit rose to $2.49 billion, or 62 cents per share, compared to $1.89 billion, or 46 cents per share, a year earlier. Adjusted earnings of 96 cents per share beat analyst estimates of 92 cents.
- Revenue grew 11% year-over-year to $14.15 billion, driven by a 15% increase in product revenue and a 2.6% rise in services revenue.
- Cisco attributed its strong performance to demand for AI-driven technologies and secure networking solutions, with CEO Chuck Robbins highlighting the company’s trusted global partnerships.
What Happened?
Cisco Systems reported better-than-expected fiscal Q3 results, with revenue rising 11% to $14.15 billion and adjusted earnings of 96 cents per share, both exceeding analyst estimates. Product revenue surged 15%, while services revenue grew 2.6%, reflecting strong demand for Cisco’s networking and AI-driven technologies.
The company raised its full-year revenue guidance to $56.5 billion–$56.7 billion and adjusted earnings per share to $3.77–$3.79, up from previous forecasts. For fiscal Q4, Cisco expects revenue of $14.5 billion–$14.7 billion and adjusted earnings of 96–98 cents per share, slightly above analyst expectations.
Cisco also announced that Mark Patterson, its current chief strategy officer, will succeed Scott Herren as chief financial officer, effective July 27.
Why It Matters?
Cisco’s strong Q3 performance and raised outlook underscore the growing demand for secure networking solutions and AI-driven technologies. The company’s ability to exceed expectations highlights its strategic positioning in a competitive market, particularly as businesses invest in digital transformation and AI infrastructure.
The leadership transition, with Mark Patterson taking over as CFO, signals continuity in Cisco’s strategic direction. Meanwhile, the company’s resilience amid trade policy uncertainties, including tariffs, reflects its robust global operations and diversified product portfolio.
What’s Next?
Investors should monitor Cisco’s ability to sustain growth in its product and services segments, particularly as AI adoption accelerates. The company’s Q4 performance will be critical in maintaining its momentum and meeting its revised guidance.
Additionally, the leadership transition and Cisco’s ongoing investments in AI and secure networking will shape its long-term growth trajectory. The broader market’s response to AI-driven demand and geopolitical factors, such as trade policies, will also influence Cisco’s performance.