Morgan Stanley Sees Potential for Software Stocks to Rebound Despite AI Concerns
Morgan Stanley analysts identify buying opportunities in software stocks following a sector-wide selloff. The iShares Expanded Tech-software Sector ETF (IGV) has dropped over 20% year-to-date, with major players like Intuit, ServiceNow, and Salesforce leading declines. Market fears center on AI-native startups disrupting incumbents' margins and reducing seat-based revenue models.
The recent "SaaSpocalypse" selloff triggered by Anthropic's AI legal tools created indiscriminate price drops across the sector. Morgan Stanley notes some stocks now trade at more than 50% discount to fair value, presenting potential doubling opportunities. However, sustained recovery may require clearer evidence of AI-driven productivity gains or revenue growth.