Workday Shares Surges 1.02% on AI Push and Strategic Deals as $750M Volume Ranks 110th

On August 29, 2025, Workday (WDAY) closed at $230.50, up 1.02% with a trading volume of $0.75 billion, ranking 110th in market activity. The stock’s performance followed mixed analyst reactions and strategic developments, including a definitive agreement to acquire AI firm Paradox to enhance talent acquisition solutions. The deal, announced earlier in the week, aims to accelerate AI-driven growth and streamline candidate experience workflows.

Positive momentum was driven by partnerships, such as Benepass joining as a strategic wellness partner to improve employee wellbeing benefits and Zuora expanding collaboration to simplify revenue management. However, post-earnings trading saw shares dip 6% after hours as Q3 subscription revenue guidance of $2.2 billion fell below the $2.4 billion consensus. While Q2 results exceeded estimates—$2.21 EPS and $2.35 billion revenue—cautious outlooks and sector-wide software market challenges tempered investor optimism.

Institutional investors showed renewed interest, with Delta Investment Management and others increasing holdings. Analysts adjusted price targets, including Zacks raising FY2026 EPS forecasts and Barclays lowering its target to $298. Despite these shifts, the stock’s 52-week range of $205.33–$294.00 and a 12.6% year-over-year revenue growth highlighted its volatile positioning amid broader tech sector dynamics.

Backtest results indicate WDAY’s 1.02% gain on August 29, aligning with the 14% year-over-year subscription revenue increase reported. The stock’s performance reflects a balance between strategic AI investments and market skepticism over guidance, underscoring the need for sustained execution to justify long-term optimism.