Investors worry new AI plugins could disrupt legal, finance, and enterprise software businesses
New York, 6 February 2026 – Shares of several major software companies fell sharply this week after Anthropic introduced new features for its artificial intelligence workplace assistant, raising fears that AI could replace traditional enterprise software products.
The market reaction followed the launch of new plugins for Claude Cowork, an AI-powered assistant designed to help with everyday office tasks. These plugins allow the tool to be customized for specific industries such as legal services, finance, and data marketing. Investors quickly grew concerned that such tools could reduce the need for established software platforms.
Following the announcement, shares of Thomson Reuters and LegalZoom dropped more than 15% in a single day. Other companies, including RELX, which owns LexisNexis, and FactSet, also saw double-digit declines.
Large enterprise software firms were not spared. Stocks of Salesforce and Workday also slipped earlier in the week. Although many of these stocks recovered slightly the following day, prices remained below their levels before the selloff began.
The sudden drop comes after years of strong gains in technology stocks driven by excitement around artificial intelligence. Recently, however, analysts have warned that investor expectations may be getting ahead of reality, increasing the risk of volatility in AI-related stocks.
Some market experts believe the selloff reflects fears that AI tools could directly compete with existing enterprise products. Others say it is too early to judge the long-term impact. Jim Reid, a strategist at Deutsche Bank, said investors are now more selective, focusing on which companies will truly benefit from AI rather than assuming all tech firms will win.
Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has previously said AI could cause major economic changes, including reducing entry-level white-collar jobs. He has also highlighted AI’s ability to complete complex work tasks independently, similar to a skilled employee.
Some experts believe fields such as basic legal services are especially vulnerable, since AI can quickly handle standard contracts and routine paperwork. However, others remain cautious. Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities noted that large companies cannot easily replace existing systems overnight due to scale, security, and workflow challenges.
Despite differing opinions, analysts agree on one point: the latest AI developments have made investors rethink the future of enterprise software, leading to sharp short-term market reactions and renewed debate over who the real winners and losers of the AI boom will be.