Is IBM’s (IBM) open AI push quietly redefining the core enterprise infrastructure story?

• In early April 2026, Anthropic, Genentech, IBM, Meta, Microsoft and others launched the Shared AI License Foundation, and IBM expanded its AI, quantum, and hardware collaborations, secured FedRAMP authorization for 11 watsonx and automation tools, and resolved a $17 million US DEI investigation.
• These moves highlight IBM’s efforts to position itself at the center of open, enterprise-grade AI and quantum infrastructure while addressing regulatory oversight.
• Here, we explore how IBM’s role in the Shared AI License Foundation reshapes the investment story around AI and quantum leadership.

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International business machine investment story summary

To own IBM today, you need to believe that IBM’s pivot around hybrid cloud, AI, and mission-critical infrastructure can offset pressures on legacy software and consulting demand. In the short term, the key drivers are execution of AI and mainframe adoption, but the biggest risk remains macro-driven softening in consumption-based software and consulting. The latest AI, quantum, and hardware announcements and the $17 million DEI settlement do not fundamentally change these short-term factors, but they sharpen the regulatory and reputational landscape.

The most relevant update here is that IBM has joined Anthropic, Genentech, Meta, Microsoft, and more in its new Shared AI License Foundation. For shareholders who value AI and quantum as core catalysts, this joint patent network could directly intersect with IBM’s ambitions to become an enterprise-grade AI infrastructure provider, strengthening its efforts in Watsonax, mainframes, and quantum while expanding the ecosystem around these platforms.

But while IBM is leaning toward open enterprise AI, investors should also be aware of growing tensions among open ecosystems and risks such as:

Read the full story at International Business Machines (it’s free!)

The International Business Machines story projects sales of $74.4 billion and profits of $10.5 billion by 2028. This would require annual sales growth of 5.1% and an increase in profits of about $4.6 billion from the current $5.9 billion.

We reveal how International Business Machines’ forecasts generate a fair value of $302.05, 31% higher than the current price.

explore other perspectives

Relative to the consensus view, the most optimistic analysts are already modeling IBM’s sales at about $80.3 billion and revenue at about $14.3 billion, and see announcements like SAIL as potential fuel for that story, while reminding you that smart people may disagree and your own view should fall somewhere on this broad spectrum, despite the risk that open source will erode IBM’s proprietary software economics.

Check out 13 other fair value estimates for International Business Machines – why the stock is only worth $223.21!

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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary using only unbiased methodologies, based on historical data and analyst forecasts, and articles are not intended to be financial advice. This is not a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take into account your objectives or financial situation. We aim to provide long-term, focused analysis based on fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest announcements or qualitative material from price-sensitive companies. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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