The software sector’s sharp sell-off is driven by AI disruption fears, impacting long-term valuations. This downturn highlights the importance of “terminal value” – a company’s perceived future worth. While near-term profits remain stable, AI’s potential to reshape future earnings power has shaken investor confidence. Changes in terminal value assumptions significantly influence stock prices more than short-term projections, prompting a re-evaluation of whether current market apprehension is justified or overblown.

Salesforce shares fell 5% in after-hours trading despite strong Q4 fiscal 2026 results, including revenue exceeding expectations. The dip was triggered by fiscal 2027 revenue guidance falling slightly short of projections, and broader AI concerns impacting software stocks. The company also announced a $50 billion share buyback and a raised long-term revenue target.

Trip.com Group reported strong 2025 results, fueled by a 60% surge in international bookings and a rebound in inbound tourism, welcoming 20 million visitors. Net revenue increased 21% year-over-year in Q4 and 17% for the full year. Strategic investments in AI and a customer-centric approach are driving growth and enhancing user experience. The company also announced board changes and is cooperating with an anti-monopoly investigation.

Google is bringing its robotics software venture, Intrinsic, in-house to bolster its physical AI and robotics efforts. Intrinsic’s Flowstate platform simplifies robot programming, aiming to make industrial automation more accessible. This integration allows Google to leverage its AI research and infrastructure, including Gemini models and DeepMind expertise, to compete in the industrial automation market. Partnerships, like the one with Foxconn, showcase Intrinsic’s potential to deploy AI-powered robots for manufacturing, driving efficiency and innovation.

Axon Enterprises’ stock surged over 17% after a strong Q4 earnings report, beating Wall Street expectations. The company’s software, particularly AI-integrated products like body camera assistants and license plate recognition, drove significant growth. Axon anticipates software to soon outpace hardware, projecting substantial revenue increases and ambitious 2028 targets. CEO Rick Smith highlighted AI as a pivotal, unprecedented opportunity for the company.

Nvidia is poised for another strong earnings report, driven by soaring demand for AI infrastructure. Analysts expect continued revenue growth, fueled by major cloud providers’ significant investments in AI. Nvidia’s dominance in AI chips, particularly its GPUs, makes it a key beneficiary of the AI boom. Investors will watch gross margins closely, given the memory chip shortage, and Nvidia’s ability to manage these costs will be a key indicator of its strength.

Bill Gates addressed foundation staff regarding his past ties to Jeffrey Epstein following the release of new emails. He stated his interactions were not illicit and he never stayed overnight at Epstein’s homes. Gates also admitted to an affair and mentioned an associate discussed personal relationships with Epstein. The foundation confirmed Gates answered questions candidly and took responsibility for his actions amidst ongoing scrutiny of Epstein’s associates.