Investment Rating - The report indicates a generally optimistic sentiment in the software industry, particularly driven by advancements in artificial intelligence products, despite a prevailing pessimism among investors [2]. Core Insights - The report highlights that AI product improvements are expected to contribute to sustained revenue growth, with core business fundamentals stabilizing and key metrics like net expansion rate and CRPO showing improvement [1][2]. - There is a notable divergence in sentiment within the software industry, with optimism in infrastructure and pessimism in application layers, suggesting a potential shift in outlook as AI adoption increases [2]. - Private credit is emerging as a significant funding source for AI infrastructure, with a market size of approximately $1.5 trillion and expected double-digit growth in direct lending by 2030 [8]. Summary by Sections Software Industry Highlights - Companies are demonstrating tangible AI product improvements, with expectations for continued momentum in the coming quarters [2]. - Major players like Microsoft and HubSpot are exploring the integration of traditional SaaS with AI capabilities, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between humans and AI agents [3]. Vertical Software Developments - CEOs and CFOs believe that scaled vertical software exhibits resilience, with complex entry barriers in niche markets [4]. - Leading vertical software vendors are leveraging AI and large language models to enhance platform stickiness and optimize industry-specific processes [4][5]. Business Services Trends - General AI is significantly enhancing the functionality of data company products, with examples like CoStar improving real estate search capabilities [6]. - Companies are utilizing AI to improve internal efficiencies, as seen with KinderCare automating call center operations and NCR optimizing scheduling [6]. Data Center Market Insights - GenAI is driving increased demand for data centers, with Iron Mountain projecting a 30% revenue growth in the second half of 2025 and over 25% growth in 2026 and 2027 [7]. - The data center market is expected to continue expanding, with strong demand observed in key regions [14]. Private Credit Market Role - The private credit market is becoming increasingly important for funding AI infrastructure, with significant growth anticipated [8]. Entertainment Industry Trends - The live entertainment sector is experiencing strong demand, particularly for high-end experiences, with Live Nation reporting increased attendance and spending [18][19]. Payment and Fintech Dynamics - The payment and fintech sectors are stable, with Visa and Mastercard noting consistent consumer spending growth [20]. - There is a growing focus on AI in payment decision-making, with companies like Affirm and PayPal investing in consumer-friendly applications [21][22].

Summary of Clarivate's Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Clarivate - **Key Executives**: Matti Shem Tov (CEO), Jonathan Collins (CFO) Industry and Strategic Focus - **Industry**: Information and analytics services, particularly in academic, government, and life sciences sectors - **Core Strategy**: Value Creation Plan with four pillars aimed at transforming the business model and enhancing shareholder value Key Points from the Conference Call 1. Value Creation Plan - **Pillar 1: Transition to Subscription Model** - Phasing out transactional sales in favor of subscription models - Current revenue mix: 88% subscription, aiming for 90% over time [6][4][3] - Phasing out print books and transactional e-books by June 2026 [4] - New subscription products introduced: ProQuest e-books and digital collections [5] 2. Sales Execution Improvement - **Pillar 2: Enhancing Sales Execution** - Changes implemented in sales organization leading to improved retention rates and sales momentum [8][10] - New talent acquisition, including a Senior Vice President for Sales in Life Science [9] 3. Product Innovation - **Pillar 3: Focus on Product Innovation** - Emphasis on AI integration across product lines, including GenAI and agentic AI capabilities [11][12] - Development of new products like Web of Science Research Intelligence, expected to launch in May 2026 [16][27] - AI enablement of existing products to enhance customer retention and attract new customers [13][14] 4. Portfolio Rationalization - **Pillar 4: Strategic Review of Non-Core Assets** - Ongoing review to identify non-core assets for potential divestiture to enhance shareholder value [19][20] 5. Organic Revenue Growth - **Target for Growth**: Aligning with market growth rates of 3-5% across segments [21][22] - **Segments**: Academic & Government (A&G), Intellectual Property (IP), Life Sciences - **Life Sciences Growth**: Strong demand in R&D, particularly for Cortellis product line [30][32] 6. Market Dynamics - **Healthcare Market**: Sustainable growth expected due to advancements in personalized medicine and AI integration [32][34] - **IP Segment**: Increased patent activity and AI-driven solutions like MacRisk and Derwent products [36][37] 7. Financial Performance and Margins - **EBITDA Margins**: Expected contraction to 41% due to disposals, with potential for recovery post-disposal [41][42] - **Margin Expansion**: Anticipated improvement as organic growth resumes, with a target of 2-3% growth leading to margin expansion [45] 8. Capital Allocation - **Balance Sheet Management**: Current gross leverage at 4.3 times; plans for debt paydown and share buybacks while maintaining flexibility [46] 9. Additional Insights - **Customer Engagement**: Focus on enhancing customer collaboration and engagement through innovative products [24][25] - **AI Cost Management**: Internal AI development is more economical compared to third-party vendors [17] Conclusion Clarivate is actively pursuing a transformation strategy focused on subscription models, product innovation, and enhancing sales execution, with a clear goal of driving organic revenue growth and improving shareholder value. The company is well-positioned to capitalize on market opportunities, particularly in the life sciences and IP sectors, while managing its financial health and capital allocation effectively.