Adobe vs. Autodesk: Which Software Stock is a Stronger Buy?

Core Insights - Adobe and Autodesk are leveraging AI to enhance their creative software offerings and improve workflow efficiency, with the creative software market projected to reach $10.25 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 1.54% [1] - Both companies have faced stock declines due to tech sell-offs, with Adobe down 17.3% YTD and Autodesk down 8.6% [2] Adobe Insights - Adobe's growth is driven by strong demand for its Creative Cloud, Document Cloud, and Adobe Experience Cloud, with an AI business expected to double by the end of fiscal 2025 [5][8] - The company has expanded its AI portfolio with new tools like Adobe GenStudio and Firefly Services, enhancing collaboration and productivity for brands [6][7] - For fiscal 2025, Adobe anticipates total revenues between$ 23.30 billion and $23.55 billion, with Digital Media revenues projected at$ 17.25 billion to $17.40 billion [8] Autodesk Insights - Autodesk is benefiting from new business growth and strong subscription renewal rates, with a focus on cloud-based products and design suites [9] - The company has made significant progress in high-growth segments like Construction and Manufacturing, adding nearly 400 new construction customers in Q4 of fiscal 2025 [10] - Autodesk expects revenues for fiscal 2026 to be between$ 6.895 billion and $6.965 billion, with billings estimated at$ 7.06 billion to $7.21 billion [12] Earnings Estimates - Adobe's fiscal 2025 earnings estimate is$ 20.36 per share, reflecting a 10.53% increase from fiscal 2024 [13] - Autodesk's fiscal 2026 earnings estimate remains steady at $9.48 per share, indicating an 11.92% growth over 2024 [14] Valuation Insights - Both companies are considered overvalued, with Adobe trading at a forward Price/Sales ratio of 6.44X, lower than Autodesk's 8.09X [16] - Autodesk holds a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy), while Adobe has a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), indicating a stronger investment case for Autodesk [18]