IBM in Focus as Bernstein Maintains Neutral Stance After Confluent Acquisition

International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) is one of the AI Stocks Analysts Are Watching Closely. On December 10, Bernstein SocGen Group reiterated its Market Perform rating on the stock with a price target of $280.00.

Firm analysts remain neutral on the stock despite IBM’s acquisition announcement noting that even though it sees strategic alignment, overall view and valuation remains unchanged.

“IBM + Confluent (CFLT): A match made in heaven?”

According to Bernstein, IBM will acquire all outstanding common shares of Confluent for $31 per share in cash. This represents an enterprise value of $11 billion.

The transaction is expected to close by mid-2026, and will be subject to normal regulatory and closing conditions.

“The boards of both companies have approved the deal, and Confluent’s largest shareholders, representing roughly 62% of the company’s voting power, have already signed voting agreements committing to support the transaction and oppose any alternative offers.”

International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) is a multinational technology company and a pioneer in artificial intelligence, offering AI consulting services and a suite of AI software products.

While we acknowledge the potential of IBM as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

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Disclosure: None.