Epam Systems Inc
NYSE:EPAM
Epam Systems Inc
In the midst of the digital transformation wave that continues to sweep across industries, Epam Systems Inc. has carved out a significant niche as a global provider of digital platform engineering and software development services. Founded in 1993, in the Belarusian hinterlands, it wasn't long before the company broke into the international scene, eventually relocating its headquarters to Newtown, Pennsylvania. Epam's ascent reflects a classic story of adaptation and foresight in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Burgeoning through strategic partnerships and acquisitions, the company expanded its footprint across different continents, offering solutions that range from product design and prototyping to complex system architecture and specialized custom software development. Their modus operandi has always been about blending innovation with the technical prowess of their extensive global talent pool, which numbers over 60,000 employees, providing bespoke solutions to a diverse array of industries including finance, healthcare, and retail.
The business model that propels Epam Systems is rooted in the integration of customized software services with cloud computing solutions and digital platform management. Unlike traditional software firms, Epam derives its revenue by focusing on a high-touch, consultative sales model that aligns closely with the digital strategy of its clients. This approach entails deeply embedding with client teams to co-create and fine-tune technological solutions that not only address immediate business needs but also anticipate future challenges. Consequently, Epam’s revenue streams are diversified across consulting, system integration, and platform development projects. The company's client-centric ethos, married to its technical expertise, allows it to charge a premium for the value it delivers—sustaining its growth trajectory even as the market landscape becomes fiercely competitive.
In the midst of the digital transformation wave that continues to sweep across industries, Epam Systems Inc. has carved out a significant niche as a global provider of digital platform engineering and software development services. Founded in 1993, in the Belarusian hinterlands, it wasn't long before the company broke into the international scene, eventually relocating its headquarters to Newtown, Pennsylvania. Epam's ascent reflects a classic story of adaptation and foresight in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Burgeoning through strategic partnerships and acquisitions, the company expanded its footprint across different continents, offering solutions that range from product design and prototyping to complex system architecture and specialized custom software development. Their modus operandi has always been about blending innovation with the technical prowess of their extensive global talent pool, which numbers over 60,000 employees, providing bespoke solutions to a diverse array of industries including finance, healthcare, and retail.
The business model that propels Epam Systems is rooted in the integration of customized software services with cloud computing solutions and digital platform management. Unlike traditional software firms, Epam derives its revenue by focusing on a high-touch, consultative sales model that aligns closely with the digital strategy of its clients. This approach entails deeply embedding with client teams to co-create and fine-tune technological solutions that not only address immediate business needs but also anticipate future challenges. Consequently, Epam’s revenue streams are diversified across consulting, system integration, and platform development projects. The company's client-centric ethos, married to its technical expertise, allows it to charge a premium for the value it delivers—sustaining its growth trajectory even as the market landscape becomes fiercely competitive.
Revenue Beat: Q4 revenue of over $1.4 billion was up 12.8% year-over-year and exceeded the high end of guidance.
AI Momentum: EPAM's pure AI native revenues topped $105 million in Q4 and are projected to surpass $600 million in 2026.
Full-Year Growth: 2025 revenue was $5.46 billion, up 15.4% year-over-year, with organic constant currency growth of 4.9%.
Guidance for 2026: Full-year organic constant currency revenue growth is expected to be 3–6%, impacted by a 1% headwind from a single large NEORIS client.
Profitability Focus: 2026 GAAP operating margin guidance is 10–11%, with expected improvement in gross margin and continued strong free cash flow conversion (80–90%).
AI Investments: Company is ramping investments in AI, industry vertical expertise, and business development, reflected in 2026 guidance.
Sales Cycle: Decision-making is slower as clients pursue larger AI programs, pushing some project starts later into the year but not changing underlying demand.
