Dell, Palo Alto and Credo After Earnings: Which Tech Numbers Move Markets

Dell Technologies and Palo Alto Networks released their quarterly results on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 after market close. Both companies were among a total of 22 firms that reported earnings during the trading week of August 31 to September 4, 2026. The results were strong for both groups and triggered different market reactions.

Dell stock rises 10 percent in after-hours trading

Dell Technologies shares gained 10% in after-hours trading. The driver was strong quarterly results and an increased full-year guidance announced by the company on September 1, 2026. Dell represents in the AI Infrastructure Hardware segment a so-called "crowded tech trade" – a heavily traded position that had already seen its stock price double in 2026.

Palo Alto Networks increases revenue by 34 percent

Palo Alto Networks reported revenue of $3.41 billion for the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2026. This represents an increase of 34% compared to the prior-year quarter. Adjusted earnings totaled $853 million or $1.02 per diluted share, compared with $673 million ($0.95 per share) in the prior year.

For the full fiscal year, the cybersecurity company achieved revenue of $11.48 billion, up from $9.22 billion in the prior year. Adjusted earnings increased to $2.93 billion ($3.84 per diluted share), compared with $2.35 billion ($3.34 per share) in the prior year.

AI security boom drives demand

Palo Alto Networks' growth is based on rising demand for cybersecurity products, particularly for securing AI-powered processes. CEO Nikesh Arora explained that advances in artificial intelligence are moving cybersecurity further up the priority list for technology spending.

The company achieved nearly $1 billion in new, annual recurring revenue in the Next-Generation Security segment during the fourth quarter. Annual recurring revenue in this segment increased by 63% year-over-year. Remaining performance obligations – an indicator of contractually secured demand – grew by 34%. Demand was particularly strong for the Network & AI Security, Cortex and Idira platforms.

Acquisition of Console expands AI capabilities

Palo Alto Networks is strengthening its position in the AI space through the acquisition of Console. Console is an AI-native platform that enables agent-based workflows in business processes. The acquisition is intended to expand the role of the Cortex platform as companies increasingly deploy AI agents.

Outlook: Further growth expected

For fiscal year 2027, Palo Alto Networks management expects continued strong revenue growth and ongoing expansion in the Next-Generation Security business segment. The focus is on improving profitability and cash generation to benefit from rising cybersecurity requirements emerging from the rapid proliferation of AI.

Tech week with Broadcom and other heavyweights

The quarterly reports from Dell and Palo Alto Networks were part of a broader earnings week in which other major technology and hardware companies such as Broadcom, Costco Wholesale and PetroChina Company A reported their numbers. The week was viewed as an opportunity to "maintain AI momentum". Both companies are part of heavily traded tech positions – Dell in the AI Infrastructure Hardware segment, Palo Alto in the cybersecurity segment. Both stocks had already doubled their prices in 2026.