Shares of Palantir, the U.S.-based big data analytics firm, experienced a significant surge of nearly 7% in after-hours trading, climbing to $158.06 per share. The company announced an impressive operating revenue of $1.41 billion for the fourth quarter of the previous year, surpassing analyst expectations and reflecting a remarkable 70% year-over-year growth. Looking ahead, Palantir projects its revenue for the current year to fall within the range of $7.18 billion to $7.2 billion, with the midpoint exceeding both market forecasts and the previous year's total. Additionally, both adjusted earnings per share and EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) comfortably outperformed market estimates.

This stellar performance was predominantly fueled by robust growth in the artificial intelligence sector and heightened demand within the defense industry, with revenues from both commercial and government sectors surpassing expectations. The CEO hailed these results as one of the most outstanding performances witnessed in the tech sector over the past decade.

Given its extensive engagement in the U.S. market, Palantir has temporarily suspended the sale of new products to U.S. allies. This strategic move comes amidst heightened geopolitical tensions. Notably, this summer, Palantir secured a substantial contract with the U.S. Army, valued at up to $10 billion, aimed at bolstering the military's software and data infrastructure.