Restructuring Seems Largely In Rearview Mirror, Founder Returns As CEO - C3.ai (NYSE:AI)

C3.ai delivered stronger-than-expected fourth-quarter results, with revenue of $51.6 million, beating the consensus of $50.4 million, and 28 deals including nine new Initial Production Deployments. The company posted a non-GAAP operating loss of $54.4 million, better than the Street forecast of a $58.8 million loss, signaling progress as restructuring appears largely complete and the cost base supports operating leverage. Founder Tom Siebel has returned as CEO and bought roughly $70 million in shares to signal confidence, while fiscal 2027 guidance sits at $210-240 million, versus a $225 million consensus. The near-term outlook for Q1 2027 sees revenue around $52 million, above estimates.

Analysts remain mixed, with Wedbush reaffirming an Outperform rating and a $15 target, while DA Davidson sticks with an Underperform rating and a $7 target. C3.ai stock traded around $10.80, up modestly on the day, reflecting cautious optimism about continued progress and the potential for improved operating leverage as the company executes its plan.