Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Cadence reported total revenue of $1.339 billion for Q3 2025, with a GAAP operating margin of 31.8% and a non-GAAP operating margin of 47.6% [14] - GAAP EPS was $1.05, while non-GAAP EPS was $1.93 [14] - The company raised its full-year outlook to approximately 14% revenue growth and 18% EPS growth [4][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The IP business is tracking over 20% growth for the second consecutive year, driven by demand in AI, HPC, and chiplet architectures [20][21] - The core EDA business saw strong results, with significant adoption of AI-driven design and verification solutions [9] - Hardware had a record Q3, with notable expansions at AI and HPC customers [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Bookings exceeded expectations, resulting in a backlog of over $7 billion [4][13] - China experienced a year-over-year growth of approximately 53%, indicating a return to normal business activity post-regulatory changes [35][36] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Cadence is focusing on the AI megatrend, positioning itself to capture opportunities across various industries with a comprehensive portfolio [5][12] - The company is expanding partnerships with major semiconductor companies, including TSMC and Samsung, to support next-generation AI flows [6][10] - Recent acquisitions, such as Hexagon's T&E business, are aimed at enhancing capabilities in structural analysis and multi-body dynamics [11][44] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the ongoing strength of the business and the AI infrastructure build-out, which is expected to drive future growth [25][26] - The company anticipates continued strong demand across all business lines and geographies, with a disciplined approach to growth [30][32] Other Important Information - The company plans to use at least 50% of its annual free cash flow for share repurchases [16] - Operating cash flow for Q3 was reported at $311 million, with a cash balance of $2.753 billion at quarter-end [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is driving the growth in the IP business? - Management highlighted that the IP business is focused on AI and HPC at advanced nodes, with strong customer demand and partnerships with major foundries [20][21][23] Question: Are there still renewal opportunities in Q4? - Management confirmed that strong demand continues, particularly in AI infrastructure, and that renewals are expected to contribute positively [24][25][27] Question: What is the outlook for hardware demand? - Management indicated that hardware demand remains strong, with expectations for continued growth into 2026 [56][58] Question: How is the company positioned in the system design market? - Management emphasized the strategic acquisitions aimed at enhancing capabilities in simulation and analysis, positioning the company well for future growth [40][44] Question: What are the expectations for China’s growth? - Management noted that design activity in China is back to normal, with expectations for continued growth, contingent on geopolitical stability [73][74] Question: What are the OpEx dynamics for Q3 and Q4? - Management explained that Q3 performance was better than expected due to a small restructure, while Q4 may see some new expenses from acquisitions [76][78]