Software tempers Cisco’s risk

Article Excerpt

Networking equipment maker Cisco Systems continues to expand its software business. That cuts its reliance on hardware sales, and gives its steady revenue streams. Investors will also benefit from increasing demand for its products as new artificial intelligence programs require the transfer of huge amounts of computer data. CISCO SYSTEMS INC. $47 is a buy. The company (Nasdaq symbol CSCO; Aggressive Growth Portfolio, Manufacturing & Industry sector; Shares outstanding: 4.0 billion; Market cap: $188.0 billion; Price-to-sales ratio: 3.4; Dividend yield: 3.4%; TSINetwork Rating: Average; www.cisco.com) is a leading maker of products that link and manage computer networks. In 2015, Cisco began cutting its reliance on cyclical computer hardware products by expanding its software offerings. That lets it offer its customers a better combination of products and services. The company also earns steady revenue streams from selling its software as an ongoing service. Cisco’s revenue fell 5.0%, from $51.90 billion in 2019 to $49.30 billion in 2020 (fiscal years end July 31). That’s because businesses cut spending…