Artificial intelligence is changing the rules of software investing, forcing private equity firms to adapt quickly and carefully. In this episode, we're joined by the team from Code & Co., one of the leading AI and tech due diligence firms serving private equity investors, to discuss how AI is transforming the way software companies are evaluated before a deal closes. Jim sits down with Code & Co. Managing Partners Dan Bender and Lukas Ingelheim along with Head of North America Kirby Montgomery to explain why tech due diligence is no longer just a checkbox exercise.

Dan, Lukas and Kirby walk us through real-world examples of overengineered software, cloud optimization opportunities worth millions of dollars, and how PE firms can identify companies that are positioned to thrive rather than become the next commoditized AI feature. Whether you're a private equity investor, software executive, operating partner, founder, or technology leader, this episode offers a practical look at what separates durable software businesses from those at risk of being disrupted.

About Code & Co.:

Founded in 2016, Code & Co. has close to 1000 engagements behind them for more than 200 global funds. They are a global and fast-growing practice with offices in Berlin, London, Paris and New York. From a fast first read-through to post-close value creation, Code & Co. works across the full deal lifecycle on both the buy-side and sell-side. The companies covered range from deep AI software businesses to tech-enabled players, and they also run IT due diligence for non-technical companies. Every member of the team is an operator with hands-on tech, product, and AI experience. That experience helps them take a confident view on where AI is building a real moat versus just being a feature that gets commoditized away.

To learn more about Code & Co., check out their website (https://www.codeandco.com/) or visit them on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/codeandcogroup/).

You can also connect directly with Dan, Lukas, and Kirby on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedanbender/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ingelheim/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirbymontgomery/