Forrester Seizes Momentum in Q2 2026 with Strong Revenue Consensus Beat
Forrester, a leading research and advisory company, has made significant strides in the second quarter of 2026, according to its latest conference call transcript. Despite market uncertainty and headwinds in consulting and events businesses, Forrester's revenue consensus beat demonstrates the company's ability to adapt and thrive.
Total revenue decreased by 10% compared to the same period last year, a decline attributed to the exit of strategy consulting business earlier this year. However, client retention was down only 1%, with an increase in client count during the quarter. CV (Consulting) decreased by 3%, while wallet retention remained flat.
Chief Executive Officer George Colony emphasized that trends from the first quarter continued into the second quarter, aligning with Forrester's expectations. The company maintained its revenue, margin, and EPS guidance for the full year despite challenges in certain business segments.
One of the key highlights from Q2 2026 was the significant investment in AI research. Forrester produced hundreds of new AI research frameworks, models, benchmarks, and technology blueprints during the quarter. CEO Colony highlighted three reports released in Q2 that outline how high-level corporate roles will be changed in the AI era.
The AI CIO report envisions a world where the CIO is managing a new way to develop software and overseeing tasks performed by autonomous agents. Four new roles for the CIO are envisioned, including architecting enterprise decision-making, governing autonomous systems, managing AI value as an economist, and serving as a teacher to educate the corporation on risks and opportunities afforded by AI.
Forrester's commitment to AI research is evident in its continued investment and innovation. The company's focus on achieving CV growth in 2026 demonstrates confidence in the market and its ability to adapt to changing conditions. As the demand for guidance on AI technology continues to grow, Forrester is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.
