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Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation (NASDAQ:CTSH) is one of the Cheap NASDAQ Stocks To Buy in 2026. On February 17, Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation (NASDAQ:CTSH) announced expanding its partnership with Wallenius Wilhelmsen, which is a leading international logistics company. ​Under the expanded partnership, Cognizant will provide broader technology services to Wallenius, including support for core business applications and IT infrastructure. This will enable Wallenius to evolve as an in ...

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Group 1 - Cognizant has been selected by a major commercial vehicle manufacturer to transform and modernize its global workplace services through a multi-year partnership focused on AI and automation [1] - The initiative will utilize Cognizant WorkNEXT™, an AI-powered digital platform designed to enhance workplace operations and user experience across global factories and offices [1] - The CEO of Cognizant emphasized the importance of applying AI, automation, human-centric design, and responsible governance to create a resilient and future-ready environment for the workforce [1] Group 2 - The partnership aims to improve efficiency, adaptability, and user satisfaction within the operations of the commercial vehicle manufacturer [1] - Cognizant's approach includes building adaptive, integrated, and human-centric workplaces that balance AI-driven automation with high-touch support [1] - The collaboration reflects Cognizant's commitment to helping clients modernize technology and transform experiences in a rapidly changing business landscape [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the investment position of the author in CTSH shares, indicating a beneficial long position through various means such as stock ownership and derivatives [1]. Group 1 - The author expresses personal opinions regarding the investment in CTSH and clarifies that they are not receiving compensation for the article, aside from Seeking Alpha [1]. - The article emphasizes that it should not be considered financial advice, as the author is not a licensed financial advisor [2]. - It highlights the importance of due diligence and research by investors before making any investment decisions, particularly in high-risk trading styles [2]. Group 2 - The article notes that past performance is not indicative of future results, and no specific investment recommendations are made [3]. - It clarifies that the views expressed may not represent those of Seeking Alpha as a whole, and the authors may not be licensed or certified [3].

Core Insights - Cognizant has expanded its partnership with Wallenius Wilhelmsen to provide technology services that will transform the logistics company's core applications and infrastructure, enhancing its role as an integrated supply chain partner [1] - The partnership signifies Cognizant's transition from a service provider to a strategic partner, focusing on modernizing legacy systems and implementing AI-driven efficiencies to support Wallenius Wilhelmsen's digital operations [2] - Wallenius Wilhelmsen emphasizes the importance of collaborators who understand their business, and Cognizant's expertise in efficiency and technology adoption is expected to facilitate the next phase of their digital journey [3] Company Overview - Cognizant is a technology leader that helps clients modernize technology, reimagine processes, and transform experiences to remain competitive in a rapidly changing environment [3] - Wallenius Wilhelmsen is a market leader in roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping and vehicle logistics, operating around 125 vessels across 15 trade routes and employing approximately 12,000 people in 28 countries [4]

Core Insights - Cognizant is advancing its strategic partnership with Google Cloud to operationalize agentic AI at enterprise scale, moving from platform integration to execution [1] - The partnership aims to enhance productivity and delivery velocity by deploying Google Workspace alongside Gemini Enterprise internally [1] - Cognizant is establishing a dedicated Gemini Enterprise Center of Excellence to support scalable delivery of agentic AI solutions [1] Company Developments - Cognizant is combining internal deployment, commercial execution, and scaled delivery investments to achieve measurable business outcomes with agentic AI [1] - The company is launching a new productivity offering that integrates Gemini Enterprise and Google Workspace to streamline workflows for clients [1] - Cognizant's Agent Development Lifecycle (ADLC) will integrate AI into the development workflow, enhancing the implementation and rollout of AI solutions [1] Industry Impact - The partnership positions Cognizant as a builder and operator of agentic AI systems, addressing the need for clarity, governance, and measurable impact from AI investments [1] - Cognizant's capabilities, such as Cognizant Ignition and Cognizant Agent Foundry, will help clients realize rapid value through no-code solutions for high-impact use cases [1] - The collaboration with Google Cloud demonstrates a practical model for enterprises to adopt agentic AI at scale, focusing on execution-ready operating models [1]

Revenue and Business Segments - Cognizant's revenue for the year ended December 31, 2025, was distributed across four reportable business segments: Health Sciences, Financial Services, Products and Resources, and Communications, Media and Technology[33]. - The Health Sciences segment is driven by trends such as consumerism and digital health, leading to increased demand for services in clinical development and patient engagement[28]. - The Financial Services segment focuses on modernizing legacy technology and adopting AI capabilities, with clients expanding enterprise AI adoption to enhance customer experience and improve risk management[29]. - The Products and Resources segment emphasizes efficiency and sustainability, with clients adopting AI and IoT technologies to enhance customer experiences and manage supply chains[30]. - The Communications, Media and Technology segment is driven by AI adoption and operational modernization, focusing on enhancing user experiences and driving operational efficiency[31]. - Revenues increased by $1,372 million or 7.0% from 2024, with a 6.4% increase in constant currency; the acquisition of Belcan contributed 260 basis points to revenue growth[151]. - Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2025, were $21,108 million, representing a 7.0% increase from $19,736 million in 2024[161]. - The Health Sciences segment saw revenue growth of $415 million, or 7.0%, while Financial Services grew by $420 million, or 7.3%[164]. Employee and Workforce Management - As of December 31, 2025, Cognizant had approximately 351,600 employees, with 256,900 in India, 41,600 in North America, and 14,600 in Continental Europe[51]. - From July 2023 to the end of 2025, Cognizant upskilled more than 330,000 associates on GenAI through over 1,000 learning programs[51]. - The voluntary attrition rate for Tech Services was 13.9% in 2025, down from 15.9% in 2024[54]. - Cognizant aims to upskill 2 million future workers by 2030 as part of its Synapse program commitment[51]. - Cognizant's annual engagement survey scores are above industry benchmarks, reflecting high employee satisfaction[51]. - The company has a comprehensive rewards portfolio that includes compensation, healthcare benefits, and mental health support initiatives[54]. Strategic Initiatives and Investments - Cognizant is investing in digital and AI capabilities, including extensive training and reskilling of technical teams, to drive organic growth and expand local workforces[22]. - The company is pursuing strategic acquisitions to enhance talent and capabilities in key technologies and specific geographies[22]. - The company aims for significant organic and inorganic growth, particularly in AI and digital sectors, which increases operational complexity[89]. - Strategic acquisitions are pursued to enhance service offerings, but successful integration and realization of desired results are uncertain[90]. - The company plans to allocate approximately 50% of free cash flow for acquisitions and 50% for share repurchases and dividends[207]. Financial Performance and Metrics - Operating margin increased to 16.1% and Adjusted Operating Margin to 15.8%, up from 14.7% and 15.3% in 2024, respectively[151]. - Adjusted Diluted EPS rose by $0.53 or 11.2% from 2024, while GAAP Diluted EPS increased by $0.05 or 1.1%[149]. - Net income for 2025 was $2,230 million, slightly down from $2,240 million in 2024, resulting in diluted EPS of $4.56, an increase of 1.1% from $4.51[161]. - Free cash flow increased to $2,665 million in 2025, up from $1,827 million in 2024, marking an increase of $838 million[199]. - Cash generated from operating activities rose to $2,883 million in 2025, compared to $2,124 million in 2024, an increase of $759 million[200]. - Cash dividends paid in 2025 totaled $1.24 per share, with a new dividend of $0.33 per share approved for February 2026[138]. - The stock repurchase program has a remaining balance of $1,918 million as of December 31, 2025, with $325 million repurchased in Q4 2025[139]. Risks and Challenges - The company faces significant risks from macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions, which could adversely affect client spending and overall business performance[69]. - Revenues are highly dependent on clients in the United States and Europe, making the company vulnerable to economic downturns in these regions[70]. - Intense competition in the market requires the company to continuously innovate and differentiate its services to maintain market share[72]. - The company faces risks related to meeting specified service levels in client contracts, which could lead to reduced fees, penalties, or reputational harm[86]. - The evolving legal and regulatory landscape surrounding AI may impose significant operational costs and compliance challenges for the company[80]. - Attracting and retaining skilled employees, particularly in AI and digital areas, is essential for meeting client demand and achieving business objectives[82]. - Competition for skilled labor is intense, and changes in immigration laws may limit the availability of qualified personnel[83]. - The company must adapt to rapid technological changes to avoid losing business and maintain profitability[74]. - Economic conditions in India, where a significant portion of operations is located, could impact operational costs and business performance[70]. - Many client contracts are short-term and can be terminated on short notice, which may adversely affect the company's revenues and operating margins[84]. Corporate Governance and Compliance - The company has a strong focus on corporate governance and financial stability, which supports its competitive position[52]. - The company is subject to numerous legal and regulatory requirements across various jurisdictions, and any violations or unfavorable changes could harm its business operations and financial condition[111]. - The company has identified material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting, which may lead to increased remediation costs[113]. - The company may incur significant costs related to compliance with evolving data security and privacy laws, which are subject to change and interpretation across jurisdictions[111]. - The company has faced ongoing disputes with tax authorities, which could lead to increased tax exposure and financial liabilities[117]. Technology and Innovation - Cognizant's services include AI and technology solutions, consulting, application development, and business process services, with a focus on continuous transformation through investment in new technologies[35]. - The company operates an integrated global delivery model, leveraging AI and automation to optimize service delivery and enhance collaboration across locations[45]. - Cognizant's competitive strategy relies on its proprietary innovations and intellectual property, which differentiate it from competitors in the professional services market[48]. - Investment in AI technologies is critical for competitive positioning, but the company faces challenges in developing and implementing effective AI solutions[75]. - The company relies on third-party alliance partners for technology, and any disruption in these relationships could impair service delivery and revenue[73]. Market and Economic Conditions - Climate-related risks may disrupt supply chains and increase costs, impacting the company's financial performance[101]. - Pandemics and other outbreaks can materially affect business operations, liquidity, and financial condition due to reduced client demand and operational disruptions[99]. - Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates can adversely impact profitability and financial condition, particularly with exposure to the Indian rupee[98]. - The depreciation of the Indian rupee positively impacted operating margin by approximately 70 basis points in 2025[178].

Core Viewpoint - Investors should closely monitor Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation (CTSH) due to significant movements in the options market, particularly the high implied volatility of the Feb. 20, 2026 $60 Call option [1] Company Analysis - Cognizant currently holds a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) within the Computers - IT Services industry, which is positioned in the bottom 41% of the Zacks Industry Rank [3] - Over the past 60 days, two analysts have raised their earnings estimates for the current quarter, while one has lowered them, resulting in a slight increase in the Zacks Consensus Estimate from $1.33 to $1.35 per share [3] Options Market Insights - The high implied volatility surrounding Cognizant shares indicates that options traders are anticipating a significant price movement, which could suggest an upcoming event that may lead to a substantial rally or sell-off [2][4] - Seasoned options traders often seek out options with high implied volatility to sell premium, aiming to benefit from the decay of the option's value if the underlying stock does not move as much as expected by expiration [4]

Core Insights - Cognizant has entered a three-year strategic agreement with DAMAC Group to enhance its IT infrastructure and application services, focusing on operational efficiency and improved digital experiences for customers and employees [1][2]. Company Overview - DAMAC Group is a diversified private conglomerate based in Dubai, with a portfolio that includes property development, data centers, retail, hospitality, capital markets, and logistics [6][7]. - Established in 1982, DAMAC has expanded significantly from its origins in catering and logistics to a global presence across Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East [6][7]. Strategic Collaboration - The collaboration aims to support DAMAC's technology transformation by improving service delivery, accelerating digital maturity, and driving measurable business impact through a wide range of IT services [3][4]. - Cognizant will implement automation and operational excellence to enhance business agility and scalability, aligning with DAMAC's long-term strategic vision [3][4]. Industry Context - The Middle East is experiencing a shift towards digital-first business models, increasing the pressure on real estate and infrastructure companies to modernize their systems and meet rising customer expectations [4]. - Cognizant's expertise in data-led decision-making and intelligent automation positions it well to support DAMAC and similar companies in navigating these industry changes [4][5].