Analysts Mixed on Twilio Inc. (TWLO) as AI Voice Momentum Builds

Core Viewpoint - Twilio Inc. is viewed as a strong software infrastructure stock by hedge funds, despite a recent downgrade by Piper Sandler from Overweight to Neutral, with a slight increase in price target to $148 from $145 [1][2]. Group 1: Downgrade and Valuation - The downgrade by Piper Sandler is primarily due to expectations that Twilio's growth re-acceleration may slow down in 2026, along with limited potential for further increases in free cash flow estimates [2]. - Piper Sandler believes Twilio has met its capital-return expectations and is currently trading at a "relatively fair valuation" [2]. Group 2: Strategic Positioning and Growth Potential - Despite the cautious rating, Piper Sandler maintains a positive outlook on Twilio, considering it the "best house in this neighbourhood" within the communications software sector [3]. - The firm highlights the Voice AI infrastructure as a small but rapidly growing segment that could contribute to future growth [3]. Group 3: Future Catalysts - Piper Sandler suggests that a more positive stance on Twilio could emerge if the stock price decreases, with the upcoming fourth-quarter results and initial 2026 guidance being potential catalysts for reassessment [4]. Group 4: Analyst Perspectives - Analysts from RBC Capital and Citizens JMP have raised their price targets for Twilio, with Citizens JMP's analyst setting a target of $185, which is below the consensus high of $200, driven by strong trends in the AI voice business [5].