Websense (WBSN): Shares form bullish 'flag'

Websense (NASDAQ: WBSN) develops and markets web filtering and security software that helps organizations to manage usage of their computer networks. Programs monitor network access, protect confidential information from web-based attacks, monitor e-mail and instant messaging, prohibit employee access to certain content, and restrict access to employer-defined time periods. The company hosts a service that allows subscribers to upgrade their Websense software to protect against new web-based and application-based threats.

The firm pleased investors earlier in the week when it said that Q4 non-GAAP revenues were expected to exceed previous guidance of $76-$79 million. Wall Street had been looking for $77.3 million. Management also remarked that quarterly billings would top the previous estimate of $92-$95 million. In discussing the upside adjustments, the CEO particularly cited positive results from the recent acquisition of SurfControl. WBSN shares popped on the news and then moved into a bullish "flag" consolidation pattern. Prices frequently exit flags moving in the same direction they were traveling on entry. In this case, that would be to the upside.