The use of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the business world. Companies that fail to seize the opportunity to deploy AI are now at risk. This risk is both operational and strategic: the integration of AI plays a decisive role in company valuation. Find out more from the experts at AURIS Finance, a consultancy firm specialising in mergers and acquisitions.
In recent months, the operational benefits of using AI have multiplied: faster data analysis, optimised operational costs thanks to the automation of repetitive tasks, improved internal processes, reduced legal risks, and more personalised offerings to boost customer satisfaction. This applies to all sectors and functions. In such a competitive market, AI has become essential for ensuring the long-term success and competitiveness of businesses. Failing to embrace this transition could result in a significant downturn, threatening a company’s future.
A highly strategic asset
As well as being an operational asset, the integration of AI is also a strategic consideration and is now part of a company’s technological heritage. Companies that incorporate AI into their overall strategy are better placed to attract investors and successfully raise capital. Those that embrace AI can see their valuation increase by between 20% and 50%, compared to those that do not. In an article published in L’Echo Touristique, lawyer Marie-Laure Tarragano provides a detailed comparison of two travel agencies with identical sales figures. The first, a traditional agency, has eight employees and uses manual management of quotes. It has no targeting or recommendation engine, resulting in slowness and low customer loyalty. Consequently, its value is limited to 800,000 euros. In contrast, the second agency has integrated AI and uses a 24/7 chatbot, automatic recommendations, intelligent marketing, dynamic pricing and back-office automation. These innovations increase productivity, loyalty and sales, boosting the company’s valuation to between €1.2 and €1.5 million.
Beware of AI washing
Artificial intelligence still needs to be properly integrated. Investors and financial partners already have access to tools that can assess the level of AI penetration within an organisation. They are looking for tangible proof of artificial intelligence’s real impact on internal processes and global competitiveness. Companies that can optimise internal processes, reduce operating costs and anticipate market fluctuations using predictive tools stand out. A poorly defined or merely superficial AI strategy can damage a company’s credibility and jeopardise its ability to attract funding. To avoid the pitfalls of ‘AI washing’, companies must establish clear objectives, adopt appropriate solutions, and guarantee a robust ethical framework.
Our experts at your service
A company’s level of AI maturity is now considered a key indicator of its performance, resilience and capacity for innovation. Investors are demanding concrete evidence of an effective AI strategy, including dedicated governance, trained teams, data security and business integration. Therefore, simply deploying artificial intelligence is not enough; it also needs to be managed and secured. Neglecting the legal aspect can result in a loss of value and reduce a company’s attractiveness to investors. At AURIS Finance, our experts specialise by sector. We can help you formalise your AI strategy if you are looking to sell or raise capital.
