So, to summarize the answers to my initial questions:
What's broken now that will remain so after the spin-off is IBM's growth mindset, the evidence of
which is yet to show up at the top line. The pandemic has worsened the situation in many areas,
so recovery will be an even longer cycle.
What's broken now that will be fixed after the spin-off is not much, except for the slightly better
alignment of both IBM and NewCo to their respective long-term goals.
No, the spin-off is not going to magically help IBM achieve its goals in hybrid and AI. There's a lot of
work that remains to be done, and a lot more reorganizing, cutting off, and acquiring are needed
in order to fully align IBM to its future goals.
". . .and a lot more reorganizing, cutting off, and acquiring. . ." The headsman is sharpening his axe.
https://seekingalpha.com/article/4380905-ibm-spin-off-is-just-not-enough