Jared Sleeper on Which Software Companies Will Survive the "SaaSpocalypse"

The podcast explores the recent downturn in software stock valuations, dubbed the "SaaSpocalypse," and questions whether AI-driven code generation poses an existential threat to software companies. Jared Sleeper, a partner at Avenir, discusses how investors often lack a deep understanding of software products, contributing to market panic. He explains that while AI can reduce coding costs, software value lies in factors like network effects, brand recognition, and integration expertise, particularly change management. The conversation examines whether software companies can adapt by offering AI-driven services and new pricing models based on results, rather than per-seat licenses, and the potential risks of commoditization from core model vendors.