IBM reported its first-quarter earnings for 2025 on April 23, surpassing analyst predictions in revenue, profitability, and free cash flow. Despite these robust results, IBM's stock price fell sharply. This unexpected decline followed the announcement of higher-than-forecasted revenue and earnings per share, driven by strong demand for generative AI and its software portfolio.
According to Insider Monkey, the company exceeded expectations with revenue surpassing the projected $14.4 billion, and an EPS above the anticipated $1.40. Despite these positive performance metrics, the market reaction was negative, in part due to other developments impacting investor confidence.
One significant factor was the cancellation or pause of 15 government contracts, which accounted for around $100 million in anticipated payments. These cuts were initiated by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, affecting the consulting unit, which relies on federal sales for less than 5% of IBM's revenue. Although the financial impact was limited, the situation contributed to broader concerns about the tech sector's vulnerabilities to government-related changes.