私募股权行业缘何开始拥抱人工智能

Group 1 - Private equity firms have historically favored software companies for their stable cash flow from long-term clients, but this preference is waning as traditional software developers struggle to command high valuations in the current market [2][10] - The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) startups is creating direct competition for traditional enterprise software companies, prompting private equity firms to explore new valuation methods for companies that are growing faster than established software firms [2][10] - Some private equity investors are beginning to make small investments in AI startups, such as the recent investment by the Swedish private equity fund EQT in AI code assistant startup Lovable and Blackstone's $50 million investment in compliance-focused AI startup Norm AI [2][10] Group 2 - Investors are preparing for a future where revenue growth for traditional software companies may no longer be stable, as enterprise clients evaluate various ways to leverage AI in their operations [3][11] - The average revenue multiple for AI application startups has decreased from 65 times in February of last year to approximately 53 times currently, making it easier for private equity firms to increase their investments in this sector [6][14] - Private equity firms are encouraging their portfolio companies to adopt AI technologies to reduce costs and enhance product features, leveraging accumulated customer data and established trust with clients [6][14] Group 3 - Companies are developing new business habits and workflows based on AI technology, exploring its integration into internal operations, customer service, and software development processes [6][14] - The way consumers use the internet is changing, prompting major internet companies to rethink their strategies in anticipation of a new era where AI agents will handle tasks like purchasing books and booking flights instead of relying on traditional online platforms [6][14][15] - If consumers prefer using AI chatbots over traditional internet platforms, these platforms may face significant disruption [15]