Palo Alto Networks Stock Rises 2.9%

Analysts Adjust Price Targets as Cybersecurity Firm Sees Trading Boost

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Shares of Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ:PANW) rose 2.9% during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching a high of $164.70 before closing at $163.16. The increase came on lower than average trading volume of 9,110,080 shares, down 22% from the daily average. Analysts have adjusted their price targets for the cybersecurity firm, with some maintaining "overweight" ratings and others lowering their targets.

Why it matters

Palo Alto Networks is a major player in the cybersecurity industry, providing a range of products and services to protect enterprise networks, clouds, and endpoints. The stock's trading activity and analyst sentiment provide insights into the company's performance and the broader trends in the cybersecurity market.

The details

Several analysts have issued new price targets for Palo Alto Networks stock, with Morgan Stanley reissuing an "overweight" rating but lowering the price target from $245 to $223. Piper Sandler also maintained an "overweight" rating, but increased the price target from $230 to $265. Overall, the stock has an average rating of "Moderate Buy" from analysts, with a price target of $210.19.

  • Palo Alto Networks stock traded as high as $164.70 on Thursday, March 5, 2026.
  • The stock closed at $163.16 on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

The players

Palo Alto Networks, Inc.

A cybersecurity company that develops a broad suite of security products and services designed to prevent successful cyberattacks and protect enterprise networks, clouds, and endpoints.

Morgan Stanley

An investment bank that has reissued an "overweight" rating on Palo Alto Networks stock, but lowered the price target from $245 to $223.

Piper Sandler

An investment bank that has maintained an "overweight" rating on Palo Alto Networks stock and increased the price target from $230 to $265.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.