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The Art of Boring™ was created for curious and passionate investors. We share strategies, frameworks, and insights to help readers and listeners make better investment decisions. Our aim? To provide some bottom-up, long-term investing signal to cut through the short-term noise.

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Data Moats in the Age of AI: What Still Matters?

In investing, some ideas age gracefully. The notion that data can be a source of competitive advantage is one of them. But as artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models (LLMs) reshape the landscape, and, in particular, as market sentiment has shifted violently over the past few weeks against asset-light, software-based businesses, it’s worth asking: what does a true “data moat” look like today…and is it still as defensible as it once was?

February 25, 2026
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This blog post is solely intended for informational purposes and should not be construed as individualized investment advice, research, or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold specific securities. Information provided reflects current views based on data available at the time or writing and may change without notice. Mawer Investment Management Ltd. and/or its clients may hold positions in the securities mentioned, which may create a potential conflict of interest. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, Mawer Investment Management Ltd. does not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of this information and disclaims liability for any reliance placed on the publication. Mawer Investment Management Ltd. is not liable for any damages arising out of, or in any way connected with, its use or misuse.