AI Shock: IT valuations fall near levels seen during subprime crisis

Indian IT exporters' valuations have plummeted to near 2008-09 subprime crisis levels, trading at 15-18 P/E multiples. This sharp decline, driven by AI advancements impacting headcount-based execution and OpenAI's direct entry into enterprise solutions, has seen stocks lose nearly 30% in 2026. While a weakening rupee offers short-term support, the AI overhang is expected to cap medium-term gains.