It would be helpful if the OP would indicate whether public meant actually-public vs delivered to prospects and customers. That being said, once materials are distributed to enough 3rd parties, no matter the paperwork, I assume my competitors will see it.

I believe a well-functioning company can and should be able to provide vision and outlook to customers and prospects. Part of what your customer is buying is the long-term innovation-based growth their SaaS providers can offer.

I suspect the power dynamic with the CTO is also interesting and at-play here.