Content Catalyst, a leading technology company, has released the findings from its Analyst Firm Survey 2025. The survey, conducted among senior leaders at global analyst research firms, sheds light on how these firms are navigating economic uncertainty and utilizing AI to enhance their services.
The results of the survey showed that 64% of respondents identified economic uncertainty as their biggest challenge for 2025. This is due to concerns that client budget pressures could impact research spending and renewals. Despite these challenges, analyst firms are focusing on strategic initiatives to enhance their value proposition.
Smaller firms with less than 50 analysts are prioritizing deeper research in their existing areas, while larger firms are increasing their technology investments to improve research capabilities. Additionally, both groups have plans to expand their coverage into new industries and sectors.
One of the most significant findings from the survey is that 84% of respondents view AI as more of an opportunity than a threat. Furthermore, 55% of respondents identified task automation as the most valuable application of AI. Larger firms are developing their own proprietary AI tools to enhance content discoverability and personalization, while smaller firms are adopting off-the-shelf AI solutions to streamline their production workflows.
Daniel Lord, Founder and CEO of Content Catalyst, expressed his optimism regarding the adoption of AI by analyst firms. He said, “I was encouraged to see many analyst firms in this report adopting AI to streamline their publishing processes and to transform the search experience. In challenging times, when budgets are scrutinized, publishing technology becomes a key differentiator that enables analyst firms to demonstrate the value of their research to clients.”
The survey also highlighted concerns about the potential for inaccuracies and bias with AI, as well as competition from AI-powered, low-cost research providers. However, most firms believe that the efficiency gains and enhanced user experience that AI can deliver outweigh these risks.
Edwin Bailey, Chief Operating Officer at Content Catalyst, emphasized the importance of understanding these trends in a rapidly evolving market landscape. He said, “This survey provides critical intelligence as we navigate a rapidly evolving market landscape. Understanding these trends enables us to better serve our clients while strategically positioning ourselves for growth despite economic uncertainties.”
The complete Analyst Research Leadership Survey 2025 whitepaper is available for download at https://contentcatalyst.com/resources/thought-leadership/analyst-research-leadership-survey-results-2025.
About Content Catalyst
Content Catalyst is a technology partner for ambitious analyst research firms. With their technology, publishers of analyst reports and data can launch subscriber portals that maximize the value of their insights and drive revenues. The company was founded in 2003 and is headquartered in Cambridge, UK.
For more information, please contact:
Gabriella Jeakins
gabriella.jeakins@contentcatalyst.com
www.contentcatalyst.com
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.