F5 Networks (NASDAQ: FFIV) posted stronger-than-expected results for its fiscal second quarter, but a more cautious forecast for the third quarter limited investor excitement. The stock rose more than 1% in after-hours trading following the announcement.
For the quarter, adjusted earnings per share came in at $3.42, comfortably ahead of the $3.10 analyst consensus. Revenue reached $731 million, beating estimates of $718.2 million and marking a 7% increase year-over-year, driven by 12% growth in product sales and a 27% surge in systems revenue.
Looking ahead, F5 Networks guided for third-quarter earnings between $3.41 and $3.53 per share, below Wall Street’s forecast of $3.56. Revenue is expected to range from $740 million to $760 million, with the midpoint roughly in line with consensus estimates.
Despite the cautious near-term outlook, the Seattle-based company raised its full-year 2025 guidance. F5 Networks now anticipates revenue growth of 6.5% to 7.5%, up from a previous range of 6% to 7%. It also lifted its non-GAAP earnings per share growth forecast to between 8% and 10%, compared to an earlier estimate of 6.5% to 8.5%.
In other news, F5 recently appointed Angelique Okeke as Executive Vice President and General Counsel. She succeeded Scot Rogers, who stepped down after 20 years with the company.
Analyst sentiment on the stock remains neutral. The consensus rating for F5 Networks (NASDAQ: FFIV) is currently “Hold,” with an average price target of $291.89. That implies more than 10% upside from the current stock price.
David Kirakosyan is a seasoned financial journalist with nearly a decade of hands-on experience in covering the U.S. stock markets. Since 2016, he has written thousands of equity news articles, detailed market analyses, and investment insights for trusted platforms like Benzinga, Investing.com, and StreetInsider. David holds a Master of Science in Finance and is a Level 2 CFA® candidate, reflecting his deep commitment to financial expertise and ethical standards. His reporting combines real-world market experience with a strong academic foundation, helping readers make informed decisions backed by reliable information. Read Full Bio
