Autodesk recently unveiled a groundbreaking array of AI-powered enhancements aimed at revolutionizing product performance and efficacy. These innovations promise to streamline processes in both manufacturing and product design, introducing AI functionalities to Fusion and Alias.
Autodesk Revolutionizes Fusion with AI
Autodesk Fusion is set to receive a boost through newly integrated AI-supported automation, paving the way for unprecedented timesaving measures. The incorporation of advanced performance upgrades and the state-of-the-art Manufacturing Data Model API is poised to significantly elevate the speed of Fusion. This integration will also facilitate smoother collaboration with design tools across the board.
MDM API enables authorized third-party applications to seamlessly input their data into Fusion models. This fosters a more harmonious integration of Fusion into existing workflows and enhances connectivity with cloud and desktop tools like OpenBOM and Cideon.
Alias Ushers in Form Explorer, as ADSK Introduces AI to Tools
Autodesk Alias is set to undergo a transformation with the introduction of Form Explorer, an innovative design generation tool. These advancements are designed for seamless integration across segments, enhancing the process of designing and manufacturing complex products.
ADSK’s acquisition of NAVASTO, a company specializing in AI for accelerated design and engineering, brings wind tunnel simulation capabilities to Alias’ early creative design stage. This empowers designers to predict and optimize the drag coefficient and aerodynamics of automotive exteriors, reducing the need for redesigns during the engineering phase.
AI integration is also extending to creative tools such as Arnold, Flame, Maya, and Wonder Studio, promising to streamline the creative workflow.
Wonder Studio, under Autodesk’s purview, is being equipped to anticipate character movements even amidst obstacles, enabling natural pose creation with reduced noise and shaking. Additionally, Autodesk’s latest prototype, Neutral Motion Control, enables animators to direct action using minimal keyframes and neural networks.
Moreover, Autodesk announced the integration of Autodesk Forma with Autodesk Docs to foster enhanced collaboration across platforms.
Autodesk’s Momentum Driven by a Robust Portfolio
Autodesk’s stock has surged by 9.5% over the past month, outpacing the Zacks Computer and Technology sector’s 4.7% growth.
ADSK has not only outperformed the Zacks Computer – Software industry but also surpassed industry peers like Intuit, ANSYS, and Verint Systems.
During the same period, ANSYS saw a return of 3.3%, while Intuit and Verint experienced declines of 3.7% and 11.6% respectively. The industry has maintained a break-even year-to-date return.
The strong performance of Autodesk can be attributed to its expanding business, consistent subscription renewal rates, and robust competitive standing. The increasing demand for cloud-based products, mobile solutions, and design suites is expected to continue propelling the company’s revenue growth in the long run.
Autodesk’s rapid adoption of BIM 360 products and the success of its subscription program maintenance augur well for the company’s future growth prospects.
Positive Guidance for Autodesk
For fiscal 2025, ADSK forecasts revenues in the range of $6.08 billion to $6.13 billion, following total revenues of $5.5 billion in fiscal 2024.
In fiscal 2025, non-GAAP earnings for Autodesk are anticipated to be between $8.18 per share and $8.31 per share.
For the third quarter of fiscal 2025, Autodesk expects revenues to fall within the range of $1.555 billion to $1.57 billion, with non-GAAP earnings projected to be between $2.08 per share and $2.14 per share.
Bright Outlook for Autodesk’s Earnings
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ADSK’s third-quarter fiscal 2025 earnings stands at $2.11 per share, showing a penny increase over the past 30 days and indicating a 1.93% year-over-year growth.
For fiscal 2025, the consensus estimate for earnings per share is $8.24, unchanged over the past 30 days, signaling an 8.42% year-over-year growth.
Autodesk has consistently exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the previous four quarters, with an average surprise of 5.94%.
Timing Your Entry into Autodesk Shares
While ADSK shares may seem overvalued, indicated by a Value Score of D, the forward 12-month Price/Earnings (P/E) ratio of 45.76X suggests a premium compared to the Zacks Computer & Technology sector’s 27.09X.
Despite this, Autodesk’s strong growth prospects, fueled by its enhanced product portfolio catering to the rapidly evolving designing and manufacturing landscape, justify this premium valuation.
Presently boasting a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), investors are encouraged to consider accumulating ADSK shares at this juncture.