AI threatens enterprise software companies, says Franklin Templeton CEO
Financial Times
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Franklin Templeton CEO Jenny Johnson has issued a cautionary statement about artificial intelligence (AI) disrupting enterprise software companies. She highlights that AI tools like ChatGPT are challenging traditional business models by providing cost-effective solutions that rival established software platforms. This shift, coupled with increased competition from tech giants and venture-backed startups, is reshaping the industry landscape.
The warning comes amid a broader sell-off in private equity firms and lenders that have heavily invested in technology-driven companies. Investors are growing concerned about the long-term viability of enterprise software firms as AI adoption accelerates across industries. This shift has left many questioning whether traditional software providers can maintain their dominance or adapt to the changing technological landscape.
Johnson’s remarks underscore broader market anxieties about the potential for AI to disrupt not just enterprise software, but also other sectors reliant on legacy systems. Her comments reflect a growing recognition that companies must evolve rapidly to stay competitive in an era defined by accelerating technological change. This dynamic is particularly relevant for financial institutions and businesses that rely on stable, long-term revenue streams from established software providers.
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Originally published on Financial Times on 2/23/2026