Autodesk Inc., the software company known for its design and engineering tools, is starting to see signs of stabilization in customer demand after a period of volatility, according to comments made by the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Anagnost. As reported by The Wall Street Journal and cited by The Fly, Autodesk’s CEO said the demand environment is no longer deteriorating and appears to be firming up across several of the company’s key markets.

Autodesk, which provides software for industries including architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and media, has faced a challenging macroeconomic climate in recent quarters. Like many enterprise software firms, it experienced cautious customer spending and longer deal cycles, particularly in the wake of global inflationary pressures and cost optimization efforts among large clients. However, the recent remarks suggest the worst may be over for the company’s sales outlook, with customer interest and pipeline activity beginning to stabilize.

This development aligns with the broader sentiment from Wall Street analysts, several of whom have maintained or upgraded their ratings on Autodesk shares in anticipation of a gradual recovery. Morgan Stanley analyst Elizabeth Porter recently reaffirmed her bullish stance on the stock, highlighting signs of margin expansion and improved deal momentum. According to her analysis, while new projects had been delayed in prior quarters, Autodesk is now seeing a more consistent flow of inquiries and engagement from enterprise customers, particularly in sectors like infrastructure development and sustainable design.

The software maker’s performance has remained resilient despite market headwinds. In its most recent earnings call, Autodesk reported stronger-than-expected first-quarter results and raised its full-year guidance, citing operational discipline and steady growth in recurring revenue. The company’s shift toward a cloud-first model with platforms like Autodesk Construction Cloud and Fusion 360 has also been well-received, offering clients scalable tools for collaboration and data-driven design.

Still, the company faces ongoing scrutiny from investors. Activist hedge fund Starboard Value is reportedly preparing to launch a proxy fight, pressing Autodesk to enhance shareholder returns and reassess its long-term strategic direction. The emergence of activist interest underscores the pressure on Autodesk to maintain performance gains and unlock greater value amid a competitive software landscape.

As of last week, Autodesk shares were trading around the $300 mark, with analysts’ average 12-month price target hovering near $342, reflecting moderate upside potential. The stabilization in demand, if sustained, could be a turning point for the company as it seeks to reassure investors and continue its focus on product innovation and global expansion.

The CEO’s comments signal cautious optimism and mark a notable shift in tone for the company, which had previously warned of uncertainty in its end markets. With signs of stabilization beginning to take hold, Autodesk appears positioned to navigate the remainder of the fiscal year with greater confidence, supported by a strong product portfolio and an expanding footprint in digital design and construction workflows.