CRM Stock Today: Beat, $50B Buyback, Shares Slip on AI Jitters – February 26
Salesforce stock slipped after hours even as the company beat Q4 FY26 expectations and announced a $50 billion buyback. The software leader, ticker CRM, reported EPS of $3.81 versus $3.05 expected and revenue of $11.2 billion. It also raised its interim dividend to $0.44 and said AI platform ARR reached $800 million, up about 170%. Yet investors focused on AI competition, pushing shares down about 3.6% to $184.96. We explain what this means for German investors, today’s setup, and what to watch next.
Q4 beat and capital returns
Salesforce earnings topped estimates for Q4 FY26, with EPS of $3.81 versus $3.05 and revenue of $11.2 billion. The company highlighted momentum across Customer 360 and AI-related offerings, underscoring resilient enterprise demand. Reported on 25 February 2026, the beat supported confidence in operating discipline and cash generation, even as investors weighed the growth mix between subscription expansion and newer AI products.
Management unveiled a $50 billion share repurchase and lifted the interim dividend to $0.44. The authorization equals roughly a quarter of the company’s market value, signaling confidence in long-term cash flows. The trailing dividend yield is about 0.87%, with room to grow if free cash flow stays strong. For euro-based investors, the program may partially offset volatility during periods of slower multiple expansion.
Why shares slipped despite records
Despite record results, shares fell about 3.6% after hours to $184.96 as investors questioned long-run AI differentiation. AI platform ARR reached $800 million, up roughly 170%, but the market wants proof of durable enterprise adoption and pricing power. Concerns around competitive pressure kept sentiment cautious, as noted by boerse.de.
The move suggests investors are re-testing growth durability versus valuation. Even with strong execution, the market may seek clearer AI monetization and pipeline visibility before re-rating. German coverage also stressed that shares dipped despite the beat and record figures, highlighting high expectations after a strong run-up, per finanzen.net.
CRM stock price today: technicals and valuation
CRM stock price today sits below the Bollinger mid-band at 194.40, with the lower band near 169.83 and Keltner lower at 178.74. RSI is 40.86, while ADX at 42.75 flags a strong trend. The MACD histogram is positive at 1.47, hinting at waning downside momentum. Traders may watch 178 to 170 as support and 194 to 196 as the first resistance zone.
Shares trade around a 25.3x TTM P/E and 4.52x sales, with an estimated free cash flow yield near 7.1% and price-to-book near 3.0. Street views remain constructive: 31 Buy, 10 Hold, 2 Sell. Meyka’s model shows a Stock Grade of A, while another composite rating lists B+ with a Neutral stance. Both emphasize fundamentals and cash generation.
What it means for German investors
Focus on AI ARR scaling from the current $800 million base, customer wins that tie AI to measurable ROI, and the pace of the $50 billion buyback. Monitor enterprise budgets into mid-2026 and whether margins hold as AI investments grow. Competitive updates and product pricing will likely set the next leg of sentiment.
For investors in Germany, compare Salesforce stock exposure versus local software leaders on growth, margins, and AI adoption. Consider currency exposure with USD-denominated dividends and buybacks. For long-term positions, staged entries can help manage volatility. Short-term traders should respect support near 178 to 170 and resistance around 194 to 196.
Final Thoughts
Salesforce stock faced a classic “great numbers, tougher narrative” setup. The Q4 FY26 beat, a $50 billion buyback, a higher $0.44 dividend, and AI ARR of $800 million are clear positives. The pullback reflects a demand for proof that AI-led growth is sticky and monetizable at scale. For German investors, the path forward hinges on three items: evidence of expanding AI use cases tied to ROI, steady margin execution, and visible buyback progress. Tactically, watch 178 to 170 as support and 194 to 196 as resistance. Strategically, weigh valuation at 25x earnings and about 7% FCF yield against competitive risk. Keep position sizes disciplined and reassess as new AI customer wins and guidance arrive.
FAQs
Why did Salesforce stock fall after beating earnings?
Shares slipped about 3.6% after hours to $184.96 as investors questioned long-term AI differentiation and monetization, despite strong headline numbers. The market wants clearer proof that AI demand can scale, hold pricing, and expand margins. High expectations set a tough bar, so sentiment stayed cautious.
Is Salesforce stock a buy after these results?
It depends on your horizon and risk tolerance. The business showed strong execution, cash generation, and a massive buyback. Valuation near 25x earnings with roughly 7% FCF yield looks reasonable, but competition and AI proof points remain key. Consider staged entries and monitor AI ARR and margins closely.
How will the $50B Salesforce buyback affect shareholders?
A buyback that large can boost EPS, support the share price during drawdowns, and offset stock-based compensation. The impact depends on timing, price, and free cash flow. If executed steadily, it can improve per-share metrics and partially counter periods of slower multiple expansion for investors.
What is CRM stock price today and key levels to watch?
After hours, CRM stock price today was about $184.96. On technicals, traders are watching support near 178 to 170 and resistance around 194 to 196, aligned with Keltner and Bollinger references. Moves through these areas may signal the next short-term trend direction.
What should investors in Germany watch next?
Track AI ARR growth from the $800 million base, marquee customer wins, and any pricing disclosures on AI features. Watch the pace of the $50 billion buyback and margin commentary in upcoming updates. Also consider USD exposure in your portfolio and compare risk-reward versus European software names.
Disclaimer:
The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes. Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.