ACN remains under close scrutiny despite recent gains; current earnings do not justify lifting the watch due to concerns about AI reducing billable hours.

I'm looking at Accenture stock, ticker symbol ACN. It's been a tough year for the consulting giants. Investors are concerned that the need for them, especially their expensive services, will decrease in a world where executives can turn to "Cloud" for advice.

But look, Accenture shares have risen more than 15% this week after the company beat estimates and delivered optimistic guidance. The good news is that the world has not collapsed.

Reports of Accenture's demise were apparently premature. I still have genuine questions about whether artificial intelligence will reduce billable working hours over time and make their main cost, talent, more expensive.

This stock has been under close scrutiny in my investment portfolio. I am pleased with the gains, but frankly, I don't see enough in this earnings report to warrant lifting this scrutiny. Um, Accenture remains under surveillance, Dan.

Dan, what are your thoughts on consulting work today? I mean, if he makes two good points. I think executives and companies will gravitate towards the cheaper option when it comes to consulting, and if Accenture doesn't adapt to the times, it could be in trouble.

Spreadsheet work is no longer what it used to be.