Avast antivirus-owner Gen Digital forecasts upbeat 2026 on strong demand

Gen Digital, the parent company behind well-known antivirus software brands such as Avast, Avira, and Norton, has recently provided an optimistic outlook for its financial performance. On Tuesday, the company announced projections for annual revenue and profit that surpass analysts’ expectations, reflecting a robust demand for its cybersecurity solutions. Following this announcement, shares of Gen Digital experienced a notable uptick of approximately 4% in after-hours trading.

Strengthening Cybersecurity Amid Rising Threats

The surge in high-profile digital breaches and a rise in online scams have compelled businesses to enhance their cybersecurity measures. This trend has led to increased enterprise spending on security solutions, even as economic uncertainties loom over client budgets. Gen Digital’s forecast for full-year 2026 revenue is set between .70 billion and .80 billion, significantly higher than the average analyst estimate of .13 billion, as compiled by LSEG.

In terms of profitability, the company anticipates adjusted per-share earnings to fall within the range of .46 to .54, again exceeding the analyst estimate of .43. This positive outlook is bolstered by the growing demand for advanced security solutions, particularly as artificial intelligence continues to evolve, enabling more sophisticated hacking techniques.

In its most recent fourth quarter, Gen Digital reported revenue of .01 billion, surpassing analysts’ expectations of 7 million. The company achieved an adjusted earnings per share of 59 cents, slightly above the anticipated 58 cents.

Tech Optimizer
Avast antivirus-owner Gen Digital forecasts upbeat 2026 on strong demand