Accenture Beats Q3 EPS But Slashes Guidance, Stock Falls 16.8% to New Low
ACN•Accenture reported Q3 EPS of $3.80 beating estimates but revenue of $18.72 billion fell short of $18.78 billion forecasts, driven by consulting weakness. The company trimmed its fiscal 2026 revenue guidance to $71.76 billion–$72.46 billion and Q4 sales outlook to $17.75 billion–$18.40 billion, sending shares down 16.8% to a 52-week low.
1. Q3 Results: EPS and Revenue
Accenture delivered adjusted Q3 EPS of $3.80, a 9% year-over-year increase that topped the $3.70 consensus. Revenue rose 6% to $18.72 billion but missed the $18.78 billion estimate, reflecting softness in its consulting services.
2. Guidance Cuts and Future Outlook
The company cut its fiscal 2026 revenue guidance to $71.76 billion–$72.46 billion, below forecasts of $74.01 billion, and projected Q4 sales at $17.75 billion–$18.40 billion, under the $18.47 billion expectation. The narrower outlook underscores ongoing caution in technology and consulting spending.
3. Market Reaction and Stock Performance
Investors sold off shares following the guidance revision and revenue miss, driving the stock down 16.8% to a 52-week low. The decline highlights growing concerns over macroeconomic headwinds and Accenture’s near-term growth prospects.
