Dell Technologies Beats Q4 Earnings Expectations; Stock Rises in After-Hours Trading

Solid Earnings Amid Revenue Miss

Dell Technologies (NYSE: DELL) exceeded earnings expectations for its fiscal fourth quarter, reporting adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $2.68, outperforming the analyst forecast of $2.52. However, the company posted revenue of $23.93 billion, falling short of the $24.57 billion expected by analysts, according to FactSet.

This mixed performance did not deter investors, with Dell stock gaining over 3% to $111.56 in after-hours trading, despite a 6.8% drop during the regular session to $107.83.

AI-Optimized Servers Drive Growth

A key driver of Dell’s performance has been the strong demand for its AI-optimized servers, which feature Nvidia’s advanced chips. These servers are designed to meet the computational needs of large language models, such as those powering AI tools like ChatGPT. Dell’s Chief Operating Officer Jeff Clarke highlighted the robust demand, revealing an AI server backlog of approximately $9 billion, including deals with Elon Musk’s xAI and other AI firms. The company aims to ship $15 billion worth of AI servers this fiscal year, positioning itself competitively against Super Micro Computer (SMCI) and Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) in the burgeoning AI server market.

Cost Management and Profit Forecast

Dell’s strong earnings were bolstered by effective cost management strategies. The company raised its annual cash dividend by 18% and expanded its share repurchase program by $10 billion, demonstrating confidence in its financial stability. Additionally, Dell provided fiscal 2026 guidance with an EPS forecast of $9.30, ahead of the consensus estimate of $9.23. The midpoint of Dell’s annual revenue forecast stands at $103 billion, aligning closely with Wall Street expectations.

Segment Performance Highlights

Dell’s Infrastructure Solutions Group, which includes storage, software, and server products, posted a 22% revenue increase to $11.35 billion. The Client Solutions Group, primarily focused on PCs, saw a modest 1% rise to $11.88 billion. The Infrastructure Solutions Group also reported an improved operating margin of 18.1%, up from 15.3% in the previous year. These results underscore Dell’s success in enhancing profitability within its server business.

Market Outlook: Bullish on AI Growth

Dell’s focus on AI-driven products and its strategic shift towards enterprise and edge computing signal a bullish outlook. Despite a revenue miss, strong EPS growth, solid guidance, and an expanding AI server backlog suggest continued upside potential for Dell’s stock. Traders may find opportunities in Dell’s momentum, particularly if the company continues to capitalize on the AI demand surge.

More Information in our Dell Technologies (NYSE: DELL).