Cisco’s 2026 Data and Privacy Benchmark Study surveyed 5,200 IT, technology and security professionals across 12 global markets, revealing that 90% of organizations have expanded their privacy programs due to AI and 93% plan further investment. The report shows 38% of respondents invested at least $5 million in privacy initiatives last year, up from 14% in 2024. While 96% say strong privacy frameworks unlock AI agility and 95% link privacy to customer trust, 65% struggle to efficiently access high-quality data, underscoring urgent needs for improved data hygiene, transparency and oversight. On data flows, 81% face growing data localization demands that 85% say increase cost and complexity, and 83% support more harmonized international transfer rules to maintain seamless service delivery.

In a recent research update, Evercore raised its recommendation on Cisco shares from In Line to Outperform, citing the company’s leadership in AI-powered networking and security solutions. The firm highlighted Cisco’s strong position in helping enterprises scale responsible AI, pointing to expanding customer adoption of integrated privacy and governance offerings. Evercore analysts noted improved visibility on recurring software and subscription revenues, bolstered by multi-year commercial agreements with major service providers and Fortune 500 clients.

Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. boosted its holdings in Cisco by 4.3% during the third quarter, acquiring an additional 24,033 shares and bringing its total to 588,908 shares as reported in its latest 13F filing. At the end of the period, the position was valued at approximately $40.3 million. The move reflects growing confidence among institutional investors in Cisco’s ongoing shift toward software and services, as well as its strong cash flow generation and commitment to returning capital through dividends and share repurchases.