In early December 2004, Salesforce ( CRM 0.17% ) was trading at a split-adjusted price of under $4. After the stock climbed following its most recent strong earnings report to over $360, the stock is now up more than 90 times in the past 20 years as of this writing. Looking at more recent returns, the stock is up about 35% year to date. Salesforce is the granddaddy of software-as-as-service (SaaS) companies, helping revolutionize the software industry. Today, it is looking toward artificial intelligence (AI) as its next big growth driver. Let's take a closer look at its most recent results to see if the stock's strong momentum can continue. AI opportunity ahead While Salesforce has been one of the best-performing software companies of the past two decades, it has also matured, and its growth has slowed. It is looking for its AI-powered chatbot platform, Agentforce, to help drive growth moving forward. For its fiscal third quarter, Salesforce's revenue rose 8% year over year to $9.44 billion, which was well ahead of its prior guidance for revenue of between $9.31 billion and $9.36 billion. Subscription and support revenue jumped by 9% to $8.88 billion. While its core business was solid, with growth similar to Q2, growth from prior acquisitions saw a meaningful deceleration in the quarter. Mulesoft revenue only edged up 1%, while Tableau increased 5% and Slack revenue jumped 8%. By comparison, Mulesoft revenue grew 27% in Q1 and 13% in Q4; Tableau's revenue increased by 21% in Q1 and 11% in Q2; and Slack revenue climbed 17% in both Q1 and Q2. The one big bright spot in the quarter, though, was Agentforce, which launched in October. The company closed 200 deals for the autonomous AI agents in the quarter despite the recent launch, and the company said it was seeing incredible adoption rates. It also noted that it has a pipeline of thousands of potential deals for Agentforce. Notably, Agentforce is a usage-based product that costs $2 per conversation. This model could allow the company to see huge upside as more customers adopt the product and overall usage increases over time with its customers. Salesforce's current remaining-performance obligations (cRPOs) rose 10% year over year to $26.4 billion. This is a common metric used by SaaS companies to help measure future revenue growth over the next year, although eventually, Agentforce's consumption model could see this metric as less indicative of overall future growth. Looking ahead, Salesforce increased its revenue guidance for the full year and lowered its EPS forecast. It now expects revenue of between $37.8 billion to $38.0 billion, representing growth of 8% to 9%, with adjusted EPS of between $9.98 to $10.03. Here is a chart of Salesforce's guidance changes throughout the year. Original Guidance (February) May Guidance August Guidance Current Guidance Revenue $37.7 billion and $38 billion $37.7 billion and $38 billion $37.7 billion and $38 billion $37.8 billion to $38.0 billion Revenue Growth 9% 8% to 9% 8% to 9% 8% to 9% Adjusted EPS $9.68 to $9.76 $9.86 to $9.94 $10.03 to $10.11 $9.98 to $10.03 For Q4, the company is projecting revenue of between $9.90 billion and $10.10 billion, representing growth of 7% to 9%. It is looking for an adjusted EPS of between $2.57 to $2.62. Can Salesforce's momentum continue? From a valuation perspective, Salesforce looks like it trades at a reasonable valuation based on its current growth. It has a forward price-to-sales multiple of about 8.5 based on next year's analyst estimates, while its forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is about 33, and its price/earnings-to-growth ( PEG ) ratio is 0.84. A PEG ratio under 1 is typically considered undervalued, and growth stocks will often have PEG ratios well above 1. CRM PS Ratio (Forward 1y) data by YCharts However, for the stock to keep its current momentum, it will need to start to see its revenue growth start to accelerate. That isn't expected to happen next quarter, but the company is starting to plant the seeds of future growth with its new Agentforce platform. Previously, Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff has talked about having 1 billion AI agents deployed by the end of fiscal 2026, which would be a $2 billion opportunity based on its pricing structure. There could also be some halo effect, where Agentforce helps increase sales and upsells with its other core cloud platforms. That's the start of solid growth that can help the company return to the teens in revenue growth. Given this opportunity, it looks like the momentum for this SaaS leader can continue moving forward. As such, I think it is a solid option for investors to consider at current levels.
After three losses this year by a combined eight points, Northwestern has found the finishing touch, winning three straight games, all against power conference teams. Northwestern (9-3) tries to extend its streak Sunday in Evanston, Ill., when it takes on Northeastern (8-4) in the final nonconference game for each team. Making a difference recently for the Wildcats has been their defensive pressure and care of the ball. During the Wildcats' three-game run, which included a 70-66 win in overtime against then-No. 19 Illinois, they forced 45 turnovers while committing just 18. That translates to a 43-16 edge in points off the mistakes. "That's something we've really talked about as a team," Northwestern coach Chris Collins said after an 84-64 win over DePaul on Dec. 21. "We're a really good defensive team and we need to turn some of those live-ball turnovers, so points can come a little easier." Brooks Barnhizer has done a little bit of everything during the Wildcats' mini-streak, averaging 19.3 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.3 steals, 3.3 assists and 2.7 blocks. Nick Martinelli has continued to excel with his rare skill set, combining crafty work in the paint with his expanded range from the perimeter. The left-hander has averaged 22 points in the last three games. For the year, Martinelli has hit 14 of 25 shots (56 percent) from beyond the arc. For Northeastern of the Coastal Athletic Association, this is the only game on its schedule against a power conference team. In 19 seasons under coach Bill Coen, Northeastern has pulled off nine victories over major conference foes. With an all-junior starting lineup, the Huskies are off to their best start since the 2015-16 season. Northeastern is led by guards Rashad King, who averages 17.7 points, 7.1 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game, and Harold Woods, who puts up 14.2 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists. Considering both are perimeter players, the rebounding numbers are extraordinary, especially for the 6-foot-5 Woods. "He hunts for those offensive rebounds and the tight spaces where he can finish behind the defense," Coen said. "And he works on that daily." This is the first meeting of the teams since 1993. The Wildcats hold a 3-1 edge in the series. --Field Level Media
The sultanate has achieved a cultural milestone with the inclusion of the training ship in Unesco’s Register of Good Safeguarding Practices. Oman has also succeeded in registering ‘Henna: Rituals, aesthetic and social practices’ on Unesco’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, in collaboration with other Arab states. ’s sail training programme aims to promote peace and foster cultural dialogue, introducing Oman’s intangible heritage to the world. Since its launch, the ship has embarked on 18 voyages, visiting over 55 countries. The programme offers a platform for young people of all genders to participate in voyages and coordinate cultural events on board in partnership with practitioners of arts, literature and traditional crafts. The official registration was announced during Oman’s participation in the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in Asuncion, Paraguay. The Omani delegation was led by H E Sayyid Said bin Sultan al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Culture in the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, and included representatives of Royal Navy of Oman and Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science. The Unesco Expert Evaluation Committee praised ’s efforts, acknowledging the ship’s role in advancing the International Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. Officials noted that its inclusion in the Register of Good Safeguarding Practices is a testament to Oman’s commitment to preserving its cultural identity and promoting international peace. Registration of henna traditions alongside other Arab countries highlights the cultural and social significance of the practice in Oman. Henna is deeply rooted in Omani customs and is linked to celebrations, beauty, health and its fragrant appeal. The traditional dye is also known for its therapeutic uses and symbolic role in marking special occasions. Over the years, the sultanate has successfully registered a total of 15 elements on Unesco’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. These include four national elements unique to Oman – Al Bar’ah (2010), Al Azi (2012), Al Ardha al Khail Wa al Jamal (2018) and Khanjar (2022) – as well as ten joint Arab elements such as Al Taghroud (2012), Al Ayala (2014), Al Razfa (2015) and the cultural spaces of councils (2015). Other elements on the list include Arabic coffee, the palm tree, camel races, Arabic calligraphy and harees.Ruben Amorim impressed with Arsenal’s corners after first defeat as Man Utd boss
LONDON: Arsenal began life without Bukayo Saka by beating Ipswich 1-0 to move into second place in the Premier League and cut Liverpool’s lead to six points on Friday. Kai Havertz scored the only goal as Arsenal failed to turn their dominance into a more convincing scoreline. The lack of a clinical goalscorer may ultimately cost Mikel Arteta’s men a first league title in more than 20 years, but they took advantage of Chelsea’s shock 2-1 defeat against Fulham on Thursday to become Liverpool’s closest challenger. Saka is set to be sidelined for “many weeks” in the words of Gunners’ boss Arteta with fears the England international could be out until March due to a hamstring injury suffered in last weekend’s 5-1 victory at Crystal Palace. Arteta’s solution was to start with Gabriel Martinelli in Saka’s normal role wide right with Gabriel Jesus continuing up front after scoring five times in Arsenal’s previous two outings. The home side were dominant in possession but had few clear-cut chances to show for it until the final quarter. “Frustration when you win? No. Things to improve? Yes,” said Arteta on the slender margin of victory. “Credit to them as they’re very well organized, but we restricted them to nothing,” he added. Arsenal were frustrated by Everton in a 0-0 draw in their last league game at the Emirates so there was relief when Havertz broke the deadlock on 23 minutes. The German prodded high into the net from Leandro Trossard’s low cross for his 12th goal of the season. Jesus did find the net once more with a cheeky finish between the legs of Arijanet Muric from an almost impossible angle, but was flagged offside. Arsenal’s prowess from set-pieces has been well-documented and they should have added to their goals from corners this season. Gabriel Magalhaes headed against the outside of the post from point-blank range when it seemed easier to score. As Ipswich’s ambition grew as the second half wore on, so the chances at the other end began to flow. Martin Odegaard had given the home crowd a scare by going down holding the left ankle that saw him sidelined by injury for two months earlier in the campaign. The Arsenal captain, though, was quickly back on his feet and weaving his way through the Ipswich defense with a mazy run and powerful strike that Muric tipped over. From the resulting corner, Declan Rice’s powerful shot was blocked by Dara O’Shea. Havertz then wasted a glorious chance for his second and Muric saved once more from Mikel Merino to ensure a nervy ending. But Arsenal held out to leapfrog Nottingham Forest and Chelsea into second. Ipswich remain second from bottom, three points adrift of safety. Brighton missed the chance to move within one point of the top five as their poor run continued in a 0-0 draw at home to Brentford. The Seagulls are now winless in their past six games but they two remain two points above their opponents. Brentford had the ball in the net early on through Yoane Wissa but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR check. Just Brentford’s second point away from home all season is enough to edge the Bees ahead of Tottenham into 11th. — AFP
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David Warner is leaning towards preferring Sam Konstas over Cameron Bancroft as his opening partner as the Test legend prepares for his first full BBL season with the Sydney Thunder. Only weeks after both pushed ultimately unsuccessful cases for the Test opening vacancy, Bancroft and Konstas are set for more internal competition at the Thunder. Nic Maddinson’s finger surgery has left the pair as the two clearest options to partner new captain Warner at the top to start the BBL, which the pair enters with varying recent records. Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today Konstas, yet to make his BBL debut, memorably announced himself with twin centuries in NSW’s first Shield game of the summer before making another for the Prime Ministers’ XI in a 50-over match last month. Bancroft has failed to pass 20 in 15 of 19 digs across red and white-ball cricket this summer, but did make an unbeaten 105 in Western Australia’s penultimate Sheffield Shield game before the break. Head here to watch Big Bash cricket live, free and on demand on 7plus Warner said a firm decision had not yet been made on the opening partnership. “We’ll speak about it this week, we’ll see in the warm-up game. I’m probably erring between myself and probably Sammy Konstas at the top,” he said. Warner has been impressed by Konstas, but wants to talk shop with the 19-year-old ahead of the Thunder’s first game against the Adelaide Strikers next Tuesday. “We know he’s talented but it’s about going out there in the Twenty20 stuff and trying to work out how to sort of play that format as well, and what he’s going to bring to the table,” Warner said. “I’ll have a chat to him about how he wants to play and what his style of cricket is as well. “We’ll have these conversations in the next couple of days about how we want to play and making sure that everyone’s on the same page.” After being signed as a foundation player for the first BBL summer, Warner has dipped in and out of the Thunder for the past two summers around Australian duties. Now retired from internationals, the 38-year-old is set to play the entire tournament for the first time in a big boost for a competition that has long struggled for star power in the absence of Test players. “I’m excited,” Warner said of the BBL. “It’s another challenge for me. I’ll uphold my own standards and make sure I’m contributing to the team and getting us off to a good start and leading by example of the field with the captaincy.” With West Indies globetrotter Sherfane Rutherford and rising star Ollie Davies also on the books, Warner said he held high expectations for the Thunder’s batting order after a last-placed finish last summer. “There’s questions for all us to answer the last couple of years, the way that we’ve played,” he said. “We’ve got some craft in the middle and hopefully at the top of the order we can fire as well.”
Abortion has become slightly more common despite bans or deep restrictions in most Republican-controlled states, and the legal and political fights over its future are not over. It’s now been two and a half years since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade and opened the door for states to implement bans. The policies and their impact have been in flux ever since the ruling in Dobbs vs. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. Here’s a look at data on where things stand: Abortions are slightly more common now than before Dobbs Overturning Roe and enforcing abortion bans has changed how woman obtain abortions in the U.S. But one thing it hasn’t done is put a dent in the number of abortions being obtained. There have been slightly more abortions each month across the country recently than there were in the months leading up to the June 2022 ruling, even as the number in states with bans dropped to near zero. “Abortion bans don’t actually prevent abortions from happening,” said Ushma Upadhyay, a public health social scientist at UC San Francisco. But, she said, they do change care. For women in some states, there are major obstacles to getting abortions — and advocates say that low-income, minority and immigrant women are least likely to be able to get them when they want. For those living in states with bans, the ways to access abortion are through travel or abortion pills. Pills become a bigger part of equation — and the legal questions As the bans swept in, abortion pills became a bigger part of the equation. They were involved in about half the abortions before Dobbs. More recently, it’s been closer to two-thirds of them, according to research by the Guttmacher Institute. The uptick of that kind of abortion, usually involving a combination of two drugs, was underway before the ruling. But now, it’s become more common for pill prescriptions to be made by telehealth. By the summer of 2024, about 1 in 10 abortions was via pills prescribed via telehealth to patients in states where abortion is banned. As a result, the pills are now at the center of battles over abortion access. This month, Texas sued a New York doctor for prescribing pills to a Texas woman via telemedicine. There’s also an effort by Idaho, Kansas and Missouri to roll back their federal approvals and treat them as “controlled dangerous substances,” and a push for the federal government to start enforcing a 19th century federal law to ban mailing them. Travel for abortion has increased Clinics have closed or halted abortions in states with bans. But a network of efforts to get women seeking abortions to places where they’re legal has strengthened and travel for abortion is now common. The Guttmacher Institute found that more than twice as many Texas residents obtained abortion in 2023 in New Mexico as New Mexico residents did. And as many Texans received them in Kansas as Kansans. Abortion funds, which benefited from “rage giving” in 2022, have helped pay the costs for many abortion-seekers. But some funds have had to cap how much they can give. The abortion map has been in flux Since the downfall of Roe, the actions of lawmakers and courts have kept shifting where abortion is legal and under what conditions. Florida, the nation’s second most-populous state, began enforcing a ban on abortions after the first six weeks of pregnancy on May 1. That immediately changed the state from one that was a refuge for other Southerners seeking abortion to an exporter of people looking for them. There were about 30% fewer abortions there in May compared with the average for the first three months of the year. And in June, there were 35% fewer. While the ban is not unique, the impact is especially large. The average driving time from Florida to a facility in North Carolina where abortion is available for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy is more than nine hours, according to data maintained by Caitlin Myers, a Middlebury College economics professor. The bans have meant clinics closed or stopped offering abortions in some states. But some states where abortion remains legal until viability — generally considered to be sometime past 21 weeks of pregnancy, though there’s no fixed time for it — have seen clinics open and expand. Illinois, Kansas and New Mexico are among the states with new clinics. There were 799 publicly identifiable abortion providers in the U.S. in May 2022, the month before the Supreme Court reversed Roe vs. Wade. And by this November, it was 792, according to a tally by Myers, who is collecting data on abortion providers. But Myers says some hospitals that always provided some abortions have begun advertising it. So they’re now in the count of clinics — even though they might provide few of them. Lack of access to abortions during emergencies is threatening some patients’ lives How hospitals handle pregnancy complications, especially those that threaten the lives of the women, has emerged as a major issue since Roe was overturned. President Biden’s administration says hospitals must offer abortions when they’re needed to prevent organ loss, hemorrhage or deadly infections, even in states with bans. Texas is challenging the administration’s policy and the U.S. Supreme Court this year declined to take it up after the Biden administration sued Idaho. More than 100 pregnant women seeking help in emergency rooms were turned away or left unstable since 2022, the Associated Press found in an analysis of federal hospital investigative records. Among the complaints were a woman who miscarried in the lobby restroom of Texas emergency room after staff refused to see her and a woman who gave birth in a car after a North Carolina hospital couldn’t offer an ultrasound. The baby later died. “It is increasingly less safe to be pregnant and seeking emergency care in an emergency department,” Dara Kass, an emergency medicine doctor and former U.S. Health and Human Services official told the AP earlier this year. Abortion rights are popular with voters Since Roe was overturned, there have been 18 reproductive rights-related statewide ballot questions. Abortion rights advocates have prevailed on 14 of them and lost on four. In the 2024 election, they amended the constitutions in five states to add the right to abortion. Such measures failed in three states: In Florida, where it required 60% support; in Nebraska, which had competing abortion ballot measures; and in South Dakota, where most national abortion rights groups did support the measure. AP VoteCast data found that more than three-fifths of voters in 2024 supported abortion being legal in all or most cases — a slight uptick from 2020. The support came even as voters supported Republicans to control the White House and both houses of Congress. Mulvihill and Vineys write for the Associated Press. AP writers Linley Sanders, Amanda Seitz and Laura Ungar contributed to this report.Northwestern hopes hot streak continues vs. Northeastern