Deep Dive – Software and AI: opportunity or threat?

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) dominates conversations in boardrooms and on investor forums. The technological progress is undeniable, and the potential impact on various sectors is immense. For investors in the software sector, and particularly in vertical market software (VMS), this raises a crucial question: does AI pose an existential threat to the durable, "sticky" business models that characterise this sector, or is it in fact a catalyst for a new phase of growth?

In this article, we take a deep dive into this subject. We analyse the views of prominent CEOs such as Mark Leonard of Constellation Software, Jan Mohr of Chapters Group, David Nyland of Lumine Group and Robin van Poelje of Topicus.com. We also incorporate insights from analysts and from Constellation Software's most recent shareholder meeting in May 2025.

Our conclusion is clear: for high-quality VMS companies, AI is not a death blow, but rather a powerful new weapon in their arsenal to increase operational efficiency and create new value for customers.

This article was originally written in Dutch and automatically translated into English with the help of AI. In case of any difference, the Dutch original prevails.