Profit from IBM’s next transformation

Article Excerpt

IBM has a long history of transforming its business in response to new computing technologies. For instance, as demand for its mainframe computers slowed in the 1990s, the company shifted its focus to services such as designing and maintaining computer systems for its customers. IBM has also steadily built up its software business, mainly through acquisitions. The company will now spin off some of its computer services operations as one separate firm. That will leave IBM to focus on its remaining, faster-growing businesses, such as cloud computing systems. We feel the breakup will unlock significant value for IBM shareholders. INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORP. $115 (New York symbol IBM, Manufacturing & Industry sector; Shares outstanding: 890.6 million; Market cap: $102.4 billion; Dividend yield: 5.7%; Takeover Target Rating: Lowest; www.ibm.com) is a buy. The company began operating in 1911 as Computing-Tabulating-Recording Co. and changed its name to International Business Machines in 1924. IBM is now one of the world’s largest computer companies: it has operations…