Autodesk posts stronger-than-expected quarter as AI and subscriptions drive growth

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News Summary

Autodesk reported quarterly results that beat analyst expectations, driven by subscription adoption and generative AI integration across its cloud products. Revenue was $1.76 billion, up 17% year-over-year, with non-GAAP EPS of $2.62 and GAAP EPS of $1.46. Billings rose 36% to $1.68 billion and AECO revenue grew 23% to $878 million. Management raised full-year revenue guidance and increased share buybacks, citing strong recurring sales and accelerating billings. Margin gains reflected cost discipline and automation. Analysts note implementation risks for AI, uneven construction demand, and uncertainty around M&A and capital deployment.

Autodesk Posts Strong Q2 Fiscal 2026 Results, Raises Full‑Year Revenue Guidance

Software maker Autodesk reported a stronger‑than‑expected second quarter driven by rising subscriptions and faster adoption of artificial intelligence tools. The company posted $1.76 billion in revenue, a 17% year‑over‑year gain, and raised its full‑year revenue forecast to a range of $7.03–$7.08 billion. Billings, a key indicator of future revenue, jumped 36% to $1.68 billion, signaling continued strength in customer spending.

Profit and segment performance

On a non‑GAAP basis, earnings per share came in at $2.62, while GAAP EPS was $1.46. The Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operations business, referred to as AECO, grew 23% to $878 million, underscoring healthy demand in construction‑focused customers. The Design segment expanded about 10%, and the Make business, which covers manufacturing and 3D modeling, rose 20%.

Why results improved

Executives and analysts point to the company’s move to a subscription model as a core factor. The shift has stabilized recurring revenue and helped keep customers using the software over time. Autodesk also embedded generative AI into its cloud products, adding predictive design tools and automation to popular packages such as Revit and AutoCAD. This cloud‑first, AI‑driven approach aimed to speed up routine tasks and deliver personalized user workflows, which contributed to the uptick in renewal and sales activity.

Market context and growth opportunities

Autodesk’s strategy aligns with rapid growth in related markets. The global Software as a Service market is projected to grow from about $318 billion in 2024 to $793 billion by 2029, giving software firms a large opportunity window. More narrowly, the AI in construction market is forecast to expand from roughly $4.0 billion in 2024 to $11.85 billion by 2029, while generative AI in construction has been estimated to grow at a particularly fast compounded annual rate. Autodesk’s early product integration of AI and industry‑specific models positions it to capture a significant slice of these trends.

Margins, cash flow and capital moves

The company showed it can convert revenue into profit, supported by cost discipline and restructuring steps that have boosted operating margins. Analysts at a major bank tied non‑GAAP margin gains to factors like headcount reduction and automation of internal processes. Management also increased share buyback targets alongside the higher guidance, which investors often view as a sign of confidence in future cash flow.

Risks and cautious views

Despite the upbeat results, concerns remain. Nearly half of professionals surveyed expressed worry that AI could destabilize industries, a sentiment that highlights adoption and implementation risks. One large broker maintains a cautious rating on the stock, pointing to possible margin upside but also noting a conservative approach to capital allocation, uncertainty around future acquisitions, and soft demand signals from industry billing indexes.

Analyst context and timing

Before the report, analysts had expected about $1.72 billion in revenue and an EPS forecast based on US‑GAAP around $1.39. Autodesk’s results topped those estimates. The company released its financial statement after market close on August 28 ET and typically follows up with a conference call to discuss the quarter and take investor questions.

Bottom line

The quarter shows Autodesk gaining momentum from subscription growth and early AI investments. Strong billings and raised guidance suggest management expects recurring revenue and margins to keep improving, even as adoption risks and market softness pose challenges. For customers and industry watchers, the focus will be on how quickly AI features translate into broader productivity gains and how Autodesk balances growth investments with disciplined capital use.


FAQ

What were Autodesk’s main financial results for Q2 Fiscal 2026?

Autodesk reported $1.76 billion in revenue, non‑GAAP EPS of $2.62, and GAAP EPS of $1.46. Billings rose 36% to $1.68 billion.

Which business areas grew the most?

The AECO segment grew 23% to $878 million. The Make business grew 20%, and the Design segment grew about 10%.

How did AI affect the results?

Autodesk embedded generative AI into its cloud software, improving predictive design and automation. This is credited with helping customer retention and new sales, supporting subscription growth.

Did the company change its guidance?

Yes, Autodesk raised its full‑year revenue guidance to a range of $7.03–$7.08 billion.

Are there risks to the outlook?

Yes. Industry survey data shows significant worry about AI’s impact, and some analysts remain cautious due to soft demand signals and unclear acquisition plans.

Key Features at a Glance

Item Detail
Quarterly Revenue $1.76 billion (+17% YoY)
Non‑GAAP EPS $2.62
GAAP EPS $1.46
Billings $1.68 billion (+36% YoY)
AECO Revenue $878 million (+23% YoY)
Design & Make Growth Design +10%; Make +20%
Full‑Year Guidance $7.03–$7.08 billion
Strategic Focus Subscription model, cloud‑first AI features, industry‑specific AI models
Market Opportunities SaaS market to ~$793B by 2029; AI in construction forecast to ~$11.85B by 2029
Analyst Sentiment Major broker maintains a cautious stance with a hold rating and a $330 price target

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

Additional Resources

Construction TX News
Author: Construction TX News

TEXAS STAFF WRITER The TEXAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructiontxnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Texas and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Texas Construction Expo, major infrastructure unveilings, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated General Contractors of Texas and the Texas Building Branch, plus leading businesses in construction and real estate that power the local economy such as Austin Commercial and CMiC Global. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructionflnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.

Article Sponsored by:

CMiC Global

CMIC Global Logo

Since 1974, CMiC has been a global leader in enterprise software for the construction industry. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, CMiC delivers a fully integrated platform that streamlines project management, financials, and field operations.

With a focus on innovation and customer success, CMiC empowers construction firms to enhance efficiency, improve collaboration, and make data-driven decisions. Trusted by industry leaders worldwide, CMiC continues to shape the future of construction technology.

Read More About CMiC: 

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