International Business Machines experienced an 8% increase in its share price over the last quarter, set against a backdrop of mixed market performance where major indexes have been wavering due to economic data and tariff concerns. IBM's upward momentum can be linked to several key developments, such as its expanded partnership with Genuine Marketing Group Inc., which provides significant co-sell support and resources. Additional alliances with Juniper Networks and Telefonica Tech suggest an emphasis on enhancing technology offerings like AI integrations and quantum-safe security solutions. These strategic collaborations likely reinforced investor confidence in IBM's innovation-driven approach. Meanwhile, IBM's Q4 earnings results and robust 2025 revenue guidance may also have bolstered market sentiment. While the broader market saw a 3% drop recently and has shown volatility, IBM's targeted initiatives appear to have been a bright spot, influencing its positive performance during this period.

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Over the past five years, IBM has achieved total shareholder returns of 167.10%, reflecting both share price appreciation and dividend distributions. Two significant factors have influenced this long-term performance: strategic alliances and key product launches. Striking partnerships, such as the integration with SAP announced in early 2022, bridged critical transitions to cloud computing, enhancing IBM's market presence. Regular product innovations, like the launch of the IBM POWER10 processor in August 2020, positioned IBM effectively within the technological advancements space.

During the past year, IBM outperformed both the US market and the IT industry, which returned 13.1% and 12.3% respectively. Significantly, the recent partnership with Salesforce has further propelled enterprise AI initiatives, indicating robust future potential. The consistent dividend declarations, notably since 1916, underscore IBM's established commitment to shareholders, complemented by collaborative growth projects such as the development of quantum-safe security solutions with Telefonica Tech. These actions solidified IBM's market stance, supporting positive investor sentiment.

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

Companies discussed in this article include NYSE:IBM.

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