
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) grew 19% year-over-year, reaching $1.032 billion, with fully ramped ARR increasing by 22% on a constant currency basis [5][17] - Total revenue for the year was $1.2 billion, exceeding expectations, with subscription revenue at $667 million, up 40% year-over-year [18] - Operating income was $208 million, up 109% year-over-year, with cash flow from operations at $301 million [20][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company signed 19 core cloud deals in Q4, totaling 57 for the year, indicating healthy annual growth in deal count [10] - Subscription and support revenue increased by 33% year-over-year, while services revenue grew by 21% [19] - Total cloud ARR grew 36% year-over-year, comprising 74% of total ARR [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America showed strong performance with a stable win rate, while Europe closed 11 deals for the year, and Latin America saw a sharp increase with three deals in Q4 [11][12] - The Asia-Pacific region benefited from successes in Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, positioning the company well for long-term growth [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on enhancing its cloud platform and expanding its data-driven analytics and AI applications to modernize the insurance industry [7][8] - The acquisition of Quanti aims to modernize pricing operations and product management across the industry [7] - The company is optimistic about leveraging generative AI to improve operational efficiencies and customer outcomes [8][34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strong demand for the Guidewire Cloud Platform and the healthy pipeline entering fiscal 2026 [6][21] - The company anticipates ARR growth of 17% for fiscal 2026, with total revenue expected between $1.385 and $1.405 billion [21][22] - Management highlighted the importance of customer success and project implementation quality in driving low ARR attrition rates [28][29] Other Important Information - The company ended the year with $1.5 billion in cash, cash equivalents, and investments [20] - The professional services team is focused on improving the pace and predictability of cloud program implementations [62] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the drivers behind the record low ARR attrition? - Management attributed the low attrition to a durable customer base, focus on project success, and proactive customer engagement [28][29] Question: How should investors think about platform expansion post-cloud transition? - Management indicated that the next phase involves focusing on data and analytics, with significant potential in pricing, underwriting, and claims [33][34] Question: How does premium growth impact the business model? - Management clarified that while premium growth generally benefits the company, the complexity of contract structures means it does not directly translate to revenue [39][41] Question: What is the competitive landscape like? - Management noted that the demand for modernization remains strong, and minimizing the risk of project failure is key to driving growth [47][48] Question: Can you discuss the Liberty Mutual deal and its implications? - Management described the deal as significant but noted it is not yet a pattern for all Tier 1 conversations [54] Question: How is the Guidewire Marketplace performing? - Management highlighted the importance of third-party development and the potential for innovation through the marketplace [58][59] Question: How is AI being integrated into service operations? - Management confirmed that AI is a primary focus for improving deployment efficiency and minimizing modernization risks [61][62]