Introduction
Artificial intelligence is changing how many businesses work. One company gaining attention in this area is Palantir Technologies.
Its software helps governments and businesses use large amounts of data. It also offers tools that connect artificial intelligence with real business tasks.
This has made PLTR stock popular with investors who follow AI and technology shares.
Palantir shares trade on the NASDAQ in US dollars. UK investors can access US shares through some investment platforms, but currency changes can affect their returns.
This guide explains Palantir’s business, financial results, stock valuation and risks. It also covers what UK investors should know before researching Palantir stock.
Market data in this article is dated 30 October 2026, the latest US market close available before publication. Financial results are based on Palantir’s latest reported quarter, Q2 2026. This article is for education, not investment advice.
What Is PLTR Stock?
PLTR is the stock ticker for Palantir Technologies Inc.
A stock ticker is a short code used to find a company’s shares on a stock exchange. In this case, investors can search for PLTR on the NASDAQ.
Palantir is a US technology company. It builds software that helps organisations collect, manage and understand data.
Its customers include government departments, defence groups and private businesses.
When someone buys PLTR shares, they buy a small ownership interest in Palantir. Their share value can rise or fall as the market changes.
Here are the main details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Company | Palantir Technologies Inc. |
| Stock ticker | PLTR |
| Exchange | NASDAQ |
| Country | United States |
| Trading currency | US dollar (USD) |
| Industry | Software and data analytics |
| Main areas | Government, commercial software and AI |
PLTR is a US-listed share, not a UK-listed stock. Its market price is shown in US dollars.
Investors follow Palantir because of its work in data software and artificial intelligence. They also watch its sales growth, profits and future business plans.
What Is Palantir Technologies?
Palantir Technologies was founded in 2003. Its early work focused on software for the US intelligence community.
The company wanted to help organisations study complex data. It aimed to make it easier to find links, understand events and support important decisions.
Over time, Palantir expanded into commercial markets. Its software is now used in areas such as defence, healthcare, manufacturing and energy.
Palantir is based in the United States. Its latest company filing lists its main office in Aventura, Florida.
Alex Karp is the company’s co-founder and Chief Executive Officer. Peter Thiel was also among its early founders.
Palantir became a public company in September 2020. Its shares began trading on the NASDAQ under the ticker PLTR.
Why Is Palantir Different?
Many software companies sell tools for one type of task. Palantir focuses on connecting data from different systems.
For example, a factory may store information in separate systems. One system may track orders, while another tracks machines and stock.
Palantir software can help bring this information together. Staff can then use it to understand problems and plan actions.
This focus on real-world operations is a key part of its business model.
How Does Palantir Make Money?
Palantir earns most of its revenue by selling software and related services to organisations.
Its customers include government bodies and commercial businesses. They pay to use its platforms and related support.
Palantir’s revenue has two main parts:
1. Government Revenue
Government customers use Palantir software for many types of work.
These may include:
- Defence and military operations.
- Intelligence and security work.
- Public health planning.
- Emergency response.
- Data analysis.
- Government operations.
Some government projects can last for several years. These contracts may provide a steady source of revenue.
However, government spending can change. Contracts may also face delays, reviews or cancellation.
2. Commercial Revenue
Commercial revenue comes from private businesses.
Companies may use Palantir software to improve their daily operations.
For example, a manufacturer may want to reduce machine downtime. It can use data from its machines, staff and supply chain to find problems.
A business may pay Palantir for access to the software and support needed to run the system.
3. Software Agreements and Services
Palantir’s revenue comes from software agreements and related services. It may also work closely with customers during setup and deployment.
Its engineers can help connect the software to a customer’s systems. This can make the platform more useful for complex projects.
Palantir reported 954 customers at the end of 2025. Its annual report also showed that government customers provided 54% of 2025 revenue, while commercial customers provided 46%.
This split matters. It shows that Palantir depends on both public and private customers.
Palantir’s Main Products and Technologies
Palantir has four main software platforms. Each one has a different role.
Palantir Gotham
Gotham is mainly used in government, defence and intelligence work.
It helps users bring together data from different sources. They can then study information and support decisions.
For example, a defence team may need to review information from several systems. Gotham can help bring this information into one working view.
The software is designed for complex and sensitive operations.
Palantir Foundry
Foundry is a data operations platform for businesses and other organisations.
It helps users bring data from different systems into one place. They can then study it and use it in daily work.
For example, a company may use Foundry to connect sales, stock and delivery data.
Managers can use this information to find delays and plan changes.
Palantir Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP)
AIP is Palantir’s platform for using generative AI in business and government work.
It connects AI models with an organisation’s data and systems. It also supports the creation of AI-powered tools and workflows.
For example, a company may use AIP to help staff review reports or prepare suggested actions.
The aim is to connect AI with real work, rather than use it only for simple chat.
Palantir Apollo
Apollo is Palantir’s software delivery platform.
It helps manage software updates across different systems and environments.
Some organisations use systems that cannot rely on a normal public cloud setup. Apollo is designed to support software delivery in different environments.
This helps Palantir manage and update its other platforms.
These four products form an important part of Palantir’s business. You can read more on the official Palantir platforms page.
PLTR Stock Price and Historical Performance
PLTR stock trades on the NASDAQ in US dollars.
Its share price has seen large movements since its public listing in 2020. Investor interest in AI, company results and wider market conditions can all affect the price.
Latest PLTR Stock Price
At the close of the US market on 30 October 2026, PLTR traded at:
| Market detail | Figure |
|---|---|
| Closing share price | $184.11 |
| Daily price change | -6.27% |
| Market value | About $442.4 billion |
| 52-week high | $212.94 |
| 52-week low | $106.37 |
| Trading currency | USD |
These figures are a dated market snapshot, not a live quote. Prices can change during each trading session.
Source: PLTR market data and price history.
Recent Share Price Movements
The share price can move sharply, even over a few days.
For example, Palantir closed at $209.00 on 12 October 2026. It closed at $184.11 on 30 October 2026.
That is a fall of about 11.9% between those two closing prices.
This short period shows why investors should not judge a stock from one good trading day.
PLTR Stock Price Chart
The following figures show selected closing prices in October 2026.
| Date | Closing price (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 October 2026 | $190.04 |
| 9 October 2026 | $209.05 |
| 12 October 2026 | $209.00 |
| 16 October 2026 | $186.03 |
| 21 October 2026 | $201.72 |
| 30 October 2026 | $184.11 |
Source: historical market data from YCharts. Prices are in USD.
Past price movements do not predict future returns. A stock can rise quickly and still face large falls.
Why Does PLTR Stock Move?
Several factors can affect the share price:
- Palantir’s quarterly earnings.
- Changes in revenue growth.
- New customer contracts.
- AI industry news.
- Investor views about future profits.
- Interest rates and wider market conditions.
- Changes in demand for technology shares.
A strong business result does not always lead to a higher share price. Investors may already expect strong results before the company reports them.
Palantir’s Latest Financial Results
Palantir’s latest reported quarter as of 31 October 2026 is Q2 2026, which ended on 30 June 2026.
The company is due to report its Q3 2026 results on 2 November 2026, after the US market closes.
The figures below are taken from Palantir’s Q2 2026 results.
Revenue Growth
Palantir reported revenue of $1.935 billion in Q2 2026.
This was up 93% from $1.004 billion in Q2 2025.
Revenue means the money a company earns from selling its products and services before expenses are removed.
The growth shows strong demand during the reported quarter.
Government and Commercial Revenue
Both main parts of the business grew.
| Revenue area | Q2 2026 revenue | Year-on-year growth |
|---|---|---|
| US commercial | $764 million | 149% |
| US government | $809 million | 90% |
| Total company revenue | $1.935 billion | 93% |
US commercial revenue is important because Palantir wants to grow its business with private companies.
The strong increase suggests that demand from these customers was high during the quarter.
Net Income
Palantir reported GAAP net income of about $1.062 billion in Q2 2026.
Net income is the profit left after the company accounts for its costs, expenses and taxes.
GAAP is a set of accounting rules used in the United States. GAAP results help investors compare reported financial performance.
Palantir was profitable in this quarter.
Earnings Per Share (EPS)
Palantir reported diluted GAAP earnings per share of $0.41 for Q2 2026.
EPS shows how much profit is linked to each share.
For example, if a company earns more profit while its share count stays similar, EPS may rise.
Investors often use EPS to study a company’s profit growth. However, EPS should not be viewed on its own.
Operating Margins
Palantir reported GAAP income from operations of $912 million. This represented a 47% operating margin.
An operating margin shows how much revenue remains after operating costs.
A 47% margin means that around 47 cents of each revenue dollar remained as operating income during the quarter.
Palantir also reported adjusted operating income of about $1.194 billion. Its adjusted operating margin was 62%.
Adjusted figures remove certain items under the company’s chosen method. Investors should compare them with GAAP figures, not treat them as the same.
Free Cash Flow
Palantir reported adjusted free cash flow of about $1.220 billion in Q2 2026.
Free cash flow is a measure of cash left after certain business spending.
It can help investors understand how much cash a company generates. Strong cash flow may support business growth and future investment.
Remember that adjusted free cash flow is not the same as a GAAP profit measure.
Cash and Debt
At the end of Q2 2026, Palantir reported about $9.2 billion in cash, cash equivalents and short-term US Treasury securities.
This gives the company a large pool of liquid assets.
A strong cash position can help a business fund its plans and manage difficult periods.
Investors should still review all liabilities and future spending needs. Cash alone does not show the full financial position.
What Do These Results Tell Investors?
The Q2 results show strong revenue growth and high reported profits.
They also show growth in both US government and commercial sales.
However, one quarter cannot explain the whole business. Investors should compare several quarters and annual reports.
You can read the official Q2 2026 earnings release and its SEC quarterly filing.
What Is Driving Palantir Stock Growth?
Several business trends may support Palantir’s future growth.
However, none of them guarantees that its share price will rise.
Growing Demand for AI Software
Many businesses want to use AI in their daily work.
They may use it to study data, improve planning or support staff.
Palantir’s AIP platform aims to connect AI models with business systems. This gives the company a chance to benefit from wider AI use.
Commercial Customer Growth
Palantir wants to win more business customers.
Its Q2 2026 results showed strong growth in US commercial revenue.
If this growth continues, commercial sales could become an even larger part of the business.
Government Technology Contracts
Government bodies may need software for defence, intelligence and public services.
Palantir already works with government customers. New contracts and longer agreements may support future revenue.
However, public contracts can be affected by budgets and policy changes.
AIP Adoption
AIP is a key part of Palantir’s AI plans.
If more organisations use it in real operations, the company may gain new customers and expand existing deals.
The important question is whether customer interest turns into lasting revenue.
Expansion Into New Markets
Palantir serves several industries.
It may find new opportunities in areas such as healthcare, energy, manufacturing and supply chains.
Growth in new markets could reduce its reliance on a smaller group of customer types.
Is PLTR Stock Overvalued?
Stock valuation helps investors judge how much they are paying for a company’s earnings and sales.
A company can grow quickly and still have an expensive share price.
This is an important question for Palantir investors.
Price-to-Earnings Ratio
The price-to-earnings ratio, or P/E ratio, compares a company’s share price with its earnings per share.
A high P/E ratio means investors are paying more for each dollar of current earnings.
On 30 October 2026, market data showed a trailing P/E ratio of about 157 for PLTR.
This is a high figure. It means investors are placing strong value on Palantir’s future profit potential.
Price-to-Sales Ratio
The price-to-sales ratio compares a company’s market value with its revenue.
Market data on 30 October 2026 placed Palantir’s market value near $442.4 billion. Its reported trailing 12-month revenue was about $6.16 billion.
This gives a price-to-sales ratio of roughly 72.
This is also a high valuation. It suggests that investors expect strong future sales and business growth.
Forward P/E Ratio
Forward P/E uses estimated future earnings instead of past earnings.
It can help investors study what the market expects.
However, future earnings are estimates. They may change if business growth slows or costs rise.
Market Capitalisation
Market capitalisation is the total market value of a company’s shares.
Palantir’s market value was about $442.4 billion at the close on 30 October 2026.
This makes it a large technology company by market value.
Why Valuation Matters
A high valuation can create risk.
If Palantir delivers strong growth, investors may continue to support its share price.
But if growth slows or results disappoint, the market may lower the value it gives the company.
This can cause a large share price fall, even if the business remains profitable.
Is PLTR stock overvalued? Its valuation was high on 30 October 2026. Whether it is too expensive depends on future growth, profit and the price investors are willing to pay.
Valuation data changes with the share price and company results. Check the date before using any ratio.
Palantir Stock vs Competitors
Palantir operates in a competitive technology market.
Some companies offer data platforms, cloud services or AI tools. Others compete for similar business and government customers.
Here are four companies investors may compare with Palantir.
| Company | Main business | AI and data focus | Key opportunity | Main risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palantir | Data and operations software | AIP, Foundry and Gotham | Wider use of enterprise AI | High valuation and competition |
| Snowflake | Cloud data platform | Data and AI tools | More business data use | Competition and cloud costs |
| Datadog | Cloud monitoring software | AI-assisted monitoring and analytics | Growth in cloud systems | Strong software competition |
| C3.ai | Enterprise AI software | AI applications for businesses | More demand for business AI | Growth and profitability risks |
| Microsoft | Software, cloud and AI services | Azure AI and Copilot products | Large customer base and cloud growth | Competition and high investment costs |
These companies are not exact matches.
For example, Microsoft has a much wider business. Snowflake focuses more on cloud data services, while Datadog focuses on monitoring software.
Palantir’s main difference is its focus on connecting data, decisions and operations.
Investors should compare each company’s growth, profits, cash flow and valuation. A company with similar AI exposure may still have a very different business model.
PLTR Stock Forecast and Future Outlook
A stock forecast is an estimate of where a share price may go. It is not a promise.
The future outlook for Palantir depends on its business results and the price investors are willing to pay.
Company Guidance
In its Q2 2026 results, Palantir raised its full-year revenue guidance.
The company expected 2026 revenue of between $8.150 billion and $8.158 billion.
It also expected US commercial revenue to exceed $3.424 billion.
For Q3 2026, Palantir guided for revenue of between $2.160 billion and $2.164 billion.
These figures are company guidance. They are not final results.
Palantir is due to report Q3 results on 2 November 2026. Investors should review that report before relying on older guidance.
Future AI Demand
More companies are exploring AI tools.
Palantir may benefit if businesses move from small AI tests to wider use in daily operations.
However, demand may not grow at the same speed forever. Other companies are also building AI products.
Commercial Expansion
Growth in commercial customers could support Palantir’s long-term business.
Investors can watch the number of new customers, contract values and repeat business.
A growing customer base can be useful, but the value and quality of contracts matter too.
Government Spending
Government work remains important to Palantir.
Defence and public sector technology needs may support future contracts. But government budgets can change.
Investors should watch contract renewals and new awards.
Profitability and Valuation
Palantir has reported strong profits and cash flow.
The next question is whether it can maintain these results while growing.
Its high valuation also means that investors may expect strong performance. Any slowdown could affect the share price.
What Should Investors Watch?
Useful measures include:
- Revenue growth.
- US commercial revenue.
- Government revenue.
- GAAP net income.
- Diluted EPS.
- Operating margin.
- Free cash flow.
- Customer growth.
- New contract values.
- Company guidance.
These figures can help investors judge whether Palantir is meeting its business goals.
Bull Case vs Bear Case for PLTR Stock
There are positive and negative points to consider when researching Palantir.
The Bull Case
The bull case explains why some investors may feel positive about the company.
Key points include:
- Strong demand for AI software.
- Fast growth in US commercial revenue.
- Existing government relationships.
- A range of software platforms.
- High reported profits.
- Strong cash generation.
- Possible growth in new industries.
If Palantir keeps growing and turns demand into lasting revenue, its business may become stronger.
The Bear Case
The bear case explains why investors may be careful.
Key risks include:
- High stock valuation.
- Strong competition.
- Dependence on large contracts.
- Possible slower revenue growth.
- Changes in government spending.
- Share price volatility.
- High investor expectations.
If growth falls below market expectations, the share price could come under pressure.
Both sides matter. Investors should not study only the positive AI story.
Risks UK Investors Should Understand
Buying a US stock from the UK brings several risks.
These risks are not limited to Palantir. They can affect many overseas shares.
1. Share Price Volatility
Volatility means that a share price can move up and down quickly.
PLTR has shown large price changes. Investors should be ready for the possibility of losses.
2. High Valuation Risk
Palantir’s valuation was high at the end of October 2026.
A high valuation can make a stock more sensitive to weak results or lower growth expectations.
3. Competition
Other technology companies are building data and AI products.
Palantir must keep improving its software to remain competitive.
4. Large Customer and Contract Risk
Some government and commercial contracts can be large.
Losing a major customer or facing a delayed contract may affect revenue.
5. Government Spending Risk
Palantir works with government customers.
Changes in public budgets, defence plans or political priorities may affect future contracts.
6. AI Industry Risk
AI is a fast-changing market.
New tools and competitors may reduce demand for some products. Businesses may also take longer than expected to adopt AI.
7. US Dollar to Pound Risk
PLTR shares trade in US dollars. UK investors usually measure their wealth in pounds.
This means currency changes can affect the value of an investment.
For example, imagine a UK investor buys a share for $100. If the share price stays at $100 but the US dollar falls against the pound, its value in pounds may fall.
The opposite can also happen.
8. Broker Fees and Currency Costs
Investment platforms may charge:
- Dealing fees.
- Currency conversion fees.
- Account fees.
- Other service charges.
These costs can reduce your returns.
Check the full fee list before placing an order.
Can UK Investors Buy PLTR Stock?
UK investors may be able to buy Palantir shares through an investment platform that offers US-listed stocks.
The exact services and account rules vary by provider.
Here is the general process.
- Choose an investment platform. Check that it offers US shares.
- Review its regulation and fees. Read the provider’s terms and check its status with the Financial Conduct Authority where relevant.
- Open an account. Complete the identity and account checks.
- Check US share access. Make sure the platform offers NASDAQ-listed shares.
- Search for PLTR. Confirm that the company name is Palantir Technologies Inc.
- Review the share price. Remember that the quoted price is in USD.
- Check currency costs. Review the exchange rate and conversion fee.
- Review the order. Check the number of shares and total cost.
- Understand the risks. Make sure you understand the chance of losing money before placing an order.
Some platforms may offer fractional shares. This means you may be able to buy less than one full share.
Not every platform offers this feature. Check the rules before opening an account.
You can use the FCA website to learn more about financial services and authorised firms.
What Is PLTR Stock Worth in Pounds?
Palantir shares are priced in US dollars. UK investors may want to estimate the cost in pounds.
At the 30 October 2026 reference rate, £1 was worth about $1.3399. This means $1 was worth around £0.7463.
Using that rate:
| PLTR share price | Approximate value in GBP |
|---|---|
| $100 | £74.63 |
| $150 | £111.95 |
| $184.11 | £137.40 |
| $200 | £149.27 |
These are simple currency estimates. Your broker may use a different rate and charge a conversion fee.
The actual amount you pay may therefore be higher or lower.
Source: 30 October 2026 GBP/USD reference rate.
UK Tax Considerations When Investing in US Stocks
UK tax rules may apply when UK residents buy and sell overseas shares.
The exact tax treatment depends on your situation and the account you use.
Capital Gains Tax
You may need to pay Capital Gains Tax if you sell shares outside an ISA and make a taxable gain.
A gain is usually the difference between the sale value and the cost of buying the shares, after allowable costs and adjustments.
For the 2026–27 tax year, the annual Capital Gains Tax allowance for most individuals is £3,000.
The tax rate depends on your taxable income and the type of gain.
You can check the latest rules on the HMRC Capital Gains Tax guidance.
Dividend Tax
Some companies pay dividends to shareholders.
Palantir does not currently pay a regular dividend, according to the available market data.
If it starts paying dividends in the future, UK tax rules may apply to that income.
HMRC provides guidance on tax on dividends.
Stocks and Shares ISA
A Stocks and Shares ISA can offer tax benefits for eligible UK residents.
You do not normally pay UK tax on investment income or capital gains inside an ISA.
However, not every provider offers every overseas share. Check whether your platform allows PLTR shares inside its ISA.
Read the official ISA guidance.
US Withholding Tax
US investments may involve US tax rules.
For example, US dividends paid to overseas investors may be subject to withholding tax.
A valid W-8BEN form may help eligible UK residents claim the lower rate under the US-UK tax treaty.
PLTR does not currently pay a regular dividend, but investors should understand these rules if that changes.
Currency and Tax Records
Keep records of:
- The date you bought the shares.
- The amount paid in USD.
- The exchange rate used.
- Broker fees.
- The date you sold the shares.
- The sale value in USD.
- Any currency conversion costs.
HMRC may require gains and income to be reported in pounds.
Tax rules can change. Check current HMRC guidance or speak with a qualified tax adviser.
Is PLTR Stock Suitable for Long-Term Investors?
Long-term investors often study a company’s business, financial strength and future opportunities.
Palantir has several features that may interest them.
It operates in the AI and data software market. It has government and commercial customers. It has also reported strong revenue growth and profits.
However, there are important risks.
Its share price can move sharply. Its valuation is high. It also faces competition from large technology companies.
A strong company is not always a good purchase at every price.
Long-term investors may want to study:
- Revenue growth over several years.
- Profit and cash flow.
- Customer retention.
- Commercial business growth.
- Government contract risks.
- New product adoption.
- Stock valuation.
- Currency changes.
It is also important to consider your own financial goals and ability to accept losses.
There is no guarantee that PLTR stock will rise over the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions About PLTR Stock
What is PLTR stock?
PLTR is the stock ticker for Palantir Technologies Inc. Its shares trade on the NASDAQ exchange in US dollars.
What does Palantir Technologies do?
Palantir builds software that helps organisations connect, manage and understand data. Its customers include government departments and private businesses.
Is Palantir an AI company?
Palantir is a software and data company with a strong focus on AI. Its AIP platform helps organisations connect AI models with their data and operations.
Is PLTR listed on NASDAQ?
Yes. Palantir Technologies is listed on the NASDAQ under the ticker PLTR. It is a US-listed stock, not a UK-listed share.
How does Palantir make money?
Palantir earns money by selling software and related services. Its main customer groups are government organisations and commercial businesses.
Is Palantir profitable?
Yes. Palantir reported GAAP net income of about $1.062 billion in Q2 2026. Investors should review future reports to see whether this profit level continues.
Does Palantir pay dividends?
Palantir does not currently pay a regular dividend. Investors mainly follow its share price and business growth.
Can UK investors buy Palantir shares?
UK investors may be able to buy PLTR through platforms that offer US shares. Availability, account rules and fees vary by provider.
What currency is PLTR stock traded in?
PLTR trades in US dollars. UK investors should consider the GBP/USD exchange rate when checking the value of their shares.
Is PLTR stock overvalued?
PLTR had a high valuation at the end of October 2026. Whether it is too expensive depends on future growth, profits and the price investors are willing to pay.
What are the risks of investing in Palantir?
Main risks include a high valuation, price volatility, competition and changes in government spending. UK investors also face currency risk and possible broker fees.
Is PLTR stock suitable for long-term investors?
It may interest investors who follow AI software and data technology. However, its high valuation and share price movements make careful research important.
Conclusion
PLTR stock gives investors exposure to Palantir Technologies, a company that works in data software and artificial intelligence.
Its platforms serve government and commercial customers. Its Q2 2026 results showed strong revenue growth, high profits and strong cash generation.
The company also has opportunities as more organisations explore AI. Its commercial business and AIP platform are important areas to watch.
However, Palantir’s share price has been volatile. Its valuation was high at the end of October 2026. Competition and contract risks also matter.
UK investors must consider the US dollar, broker costs and tax rules before buying overseas shares.
The next major update is Palantir’s Q3 2026 earnings report, due on 2 November 2026. Investors should review the new results and company guidance when available.
The key point is simple: Palantir has a growing AI and data business, but its share price also carries risk. Research the company, its financial results and its valuation before making any investment decision.
