Accenture PLC (ACN) shares tumbled 6% in pre-market trading on Thursday after the consulting and professional services giant reported disappointing second-quarter results and lowered its full-year revenue growth forecast. The company's earnings per share of $2.82 narrowly missed Wall Street expectations of $2.84, despite revenue of $16.7 billion beating estimates of $16.6 billion.

The Dublin-based firm adjusted its fiscal year guidance, narrowing its revenue growth forecast to 5-7% from the previous 4-7% range. This reduction, coupled with a 3% year-over-year decrease in new bookings to $20.9 billion, raised concerns about slowing demand for Accenture's services. Notably, bookings associated with artificial intelligence came in at $1.4 billion, highlighting the growing importance of AI-related business for the company.

Accenture's pre-market plunge reflects investor disappointment with the company's performance and outlook, particularly in light of the high expectations surrounding its AI initiatives. As the professional services sector faces challenges from uncertain economic conditions and potential cuts in federal consulting contracts, Accenture's results may signal broader industry headwinds.