Clouded Judgement: Growth-Adjusted Software Multiples and Valuation Reset
This article analyzes current SaaS valuation multiples (6.0x NTM revenue) relative to historical averages and macro conditions, arguing that while multiples appear depressed versus interest rates and growth expectations, growth-adjusted multiples are at all-time highs when divided by consensus growth rates. The author contends that the market is pricing in near-term tailwinds from potential growth acceleration and rate declines, though significant uncertainty remains about whether current multiples represent fair value or an AI-driven bubble.
Metrics in this report
3.7percent
current
Jun 2023
2.3percent
average
Historical average (2010-2020, pre-COVID)
57months
median
Public SaaS companies
3percent
median
Public SaaS companies
18percent
median
Public SaaS companies
75percent
median
Public SaaS companies
24percent
median
Public SaaS companies
15percent
median
Current SaaS market (Jun 2023)
25percent
median
SaaS 10-year historical average (2010-2020, excluding 2020-present)
6.0x
median
Current SaaS market (Jun 2023)
7.8x
median
SaaS 10-year historical average (2010-2020, excluding 2020-present)
16.6x
median
Top 5 highest-valued SaaS companies
9.0x
median
High-growth SaaS (>30% NTM growth)
9.2x
median
Mid-growth SaaS (15-30% NTM growth)
3.7x
median
Low-growth SaaS (<15% NTM growth)
115percent
median
Public SaaS companies
-21percent
median
Public SaaS companies
27percent
median
Public SaaS companies
46percent
median
Public SaaS companies