Asks why software sector is lagging the market despite AI narrative.
Speaker1
Ashley MacNeill
2025 was year of predictable volatility; AI adoption happens in waves. Wave 3 (application/software layer) is setting up now, with valuations to follow proof points.
Asks if market is still assessing AI impact on SaaS.
Speaker1
Ashley MacNeill
2026 will bring KPIs/metrics for AI adoption; corporate America seeks established software players to implement AI for efficiency.
Notes bifurcation in software performance: some stocks up big, others down.
Speaker1
Ashley MacNeill
Software will bifurcate: some become 'agentified' (e.g., Salesforce to AgentForce), others use AI to enhance delivery of existing value proposition.
Asks how AI trade looks heading into new year.
Speaker1
Ashley MacNeill
2026 setting up for great market for deal-making and funding AI adoptions.
Asks if rate cuts play into that story.
Speaker1
Ashley MacNeill
Fed easing helps AI company valuations and lowers cost of capital, facilitating innovation adoption.
Raises doubt about Fed path being as friendly as expected.
Speaker1
Ashley MacNeill
Any Fed easing indication goes long way for AI trade and software companies becoming AI adopters.
Asks about AI IPO outlook for 2026.
Speaker1
Ashley MacNeill
2026 setting up for robust IPO market, especially AI-related.