Core Insights - During market turbulence, investors often seek dividend-yielding stocks, which typically have high free cash flows and offer substantial dividends [1] Company Ratings and Performance - **United Parcel Service Inc (NYSE:UPS)**: - Dividend Yield: 6.89% - Citigroup analyst Ariel Rosa maintained a Buy rating and increased the price target from $112 to $120, with an accuracy rate of 69% [7] - UBS analyst Thomas Wadewitz also maintained a Buy rating, raising the price target from $110 to $113, with an accuracy rate of 72% [7] - Recent performance: Reported better-than-expected Q3 results and provided Q4 sales guidance above estimates [7] - **Insperity Inc (NYSE:NSP)**: - Dividend Yield: 6.80% - Truist Securities analyst Tobey Sommer maintained a Hold rating but reduced the price target from $50 to $35, with an accuracy rate of 71% [7] - JP Morgan analyst Andrew Polkowitz maintained an Underweight rating, cutting the price target from $51 to $34, with an accuracy rate of 71% [7] - Recent performance: Reported worse-than-expected Q3 results and lowered FY25 adjusted EPS and GAAP EPS guidance below estimates [7] - **Robert Half Inc (NYSE:RHI)**: - Dividend Yield: 8.60% - Barclays analyst Manav Patnaik maintained an Equal-Weight rating and reduced the price target from $45 to $36, with an accuracy rate of 74% [7] - BMO Capital analyst Jeffrey Silber maintained a Market Perform rating, cutting the price target from $36 to $31, with an accuracy rate of 69% [7] - Recent performance: Posted weaker-than-expected quarterly results [7]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses a selection of stocks with high dividend yields that are currently viewed unfavorably by Wall Street analysts, suggesting potential investment opportunities in these "hated" stocks. Group 1: Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) - National Storage Affiliates Trust (NSA) has a yield of 7.9% and operates 1,069 properties across 37 states and Puerto Rico, benefiting from a recession-resistant business model, although it is currently facing a 20% pullback in performance [3][4] - NSA's recent quarter showed declines in earnings, core FFO, same store net operating income, and occupancy, reflecting broader challenges in the self-storage sector rather than unique issues for NSA [3][4] - Alexander's (ALX) has an 8.5% yield and is highly concentrated, with 60% of its revenues coming from tenant Bloomberg. The company is in discussions for loan restructuring after failing to repay a $300 million loan [5][6] - Despite challenges, ALX has shown double-digit total returns in 2025, outperforming the broader real estate sector, but Wall Street remains skeptical due to dividend concerns [7] Group 2: Talent Solutions and Consulting - Robert Half (RHI) has a yield of 9.0% and operates in contract talent solutions, permanent placement, and consulting services. The company has seen its stock price drop 80% since its peak in 2022, leading to more Sell and Hold ratings than Buys [10][11] - The decline in RHI's stock is attributed to a post-COVID hiring moderation, with significant job losses reported, although the company believes the impact of AI on its business is overstated [12][13] - RHI's earnings are expected to drop by 45% this year, raising concerns about dividend coverage as the payout is projected to exceed earnings through at least the end of 2026 [14] Group 3: Crafting and Creativity Platform - Cricut (CRCT) boasts a high yield of 20.6% and operates as a creativity platform, offering machines and software for crafting. The company initiated a new semiannual dividend program despite declining profits [16][17] - The stock has seen a significant decline, leading to a yield increase above 20%, with analysts recommending selling the stock [19] - Despite a loyal user base and expected profit growth of over 20% in 2025, Cricut faces challenges with flat or declining revenues projected in the coming years, particularly if economic conditions affect holiday shopping [20][21]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses four high dividend yield stocks, ranging from 7.9% to 20.6%, that are currently being overlooked by Wall Street analysts despite their potential for income generation [1][2]. Group 1: National Storage Affiliates Trust (NSA) - NSA is a self-storage REIT with a yield of 7.9%, operating 1,069 properties across 37 states and Puerto Rico, and is considered recession-resistant [3][4]. - The stock has experienced a 20% decline in 2025, attributed to lower earnings and occupancy rates, although similar trends are seen in competitors, indicating broader industry challenges [4][5]. - NSA's payout coverage is tightening, with expected earnings of $2.20 per share against a dividend payout of $2.28, leading to concerns about sustainability [5]. Group 2: Alexanders (ALX) - ALX, yielding 8.5%, is a concentrated landlord with significant reliance on a single tenant, Bloomberg, which accounts for 60% of its revenue [6][7]. - The company is facing financial difficulties, including a loan restructuring discussion after failing to repay a $300 million loan [7]. - Despite these issues, ALX has delivered double-digit total returns in 2025, outperforming the broader real estate sector [8]. Group 3: Robert Half (RHI) - RHI has a yield of 9.0% and operates in talent solutions and consulting, but its stock has plummeted 80% since its peak in 2022, leading to more Sell and Hold ratings than Buys [10][11]. - The company is facing challenges from AI's impact on job placements, although its CEO argues that the effects are overstated for experienced roles [14][15]. - RHI's dividend payout is projected to exceed earnings significantly, with expected profits dropping by 45% this year [15]. Group 4: Cricut (CRCT) - Cricut boasts a high yield of 20.6% and operates as a creativity platform, but its profitability is declining despite recent dividend commitments [17][18]. - The company has seen a significant drop in stock price, leading to a yield increase, yet analysts are pessimistic about its future growth prospects [19][20]. - Revenue projections indicate potential stagnation or decline, particularly if economic conditions affect holiday sales, which are crucial for the company [21].

Core Insights - Hyperscalers are investing heavily in AI infrastructure, leading to speculation about when small- and mid-cap stocks will benefit from this technology [1] - Goldman Sachs identifies distinct phases of AI development, with current gains concentrated in hardware makers like Nvidia, while suggesting investors should focus on the next phase [1][2] AI Adoption and Market Focus - Despite ongoing AI adoption, returns have primarily been seen in the infrastructure sector rather than in applications or productivity [2] - Analysts note that corporate AI adoption and concerns about AI infrastructure risks have shifted investor focus towards potential beneficiaries of AI-driven productivity gains [3] Companies Highlighted for AI Potential - Goldman Sachs has identified several companies that are sensitive to AI disruption and have high labor costs, making them potential beneficiaries of AI productivity gains [4] - Five stocks were flagged, including H&R Block, Robert Half, and Cognizant, which are expected to see significant profit boosts from AI adoption [4] Detailed Company Analysis - **H&R Block (Ticker: HRB)** - Share of wage bill exposed to AI automation: 41% - Labor costs as % of sales: 46% - Average percentile rank of potential AI boost among Russell 1000 companies: 97th - Potential boost to earnings: 51% [5] - **Robert Half (Ticker: RHI)** - Share of wage bill exposed to AI automation: 38% - Labor costs as % of sales: 79% - Average percentile rank of potential AI boost among Russell 1000 companies: 96th - Potential boost to earnings: 270% [5] - **Cognizant Technology Solutions** - Specific data not provided, but included among the companies expected to benefit from AI adoption [4]

Core Insights - Protiviti has been recognized by Microsoft as a member of the AI Business Solution's 2025-2026 Inner Circle, indicating its top-tier performance within Microsoft's global network of partners [1][3] - The Inner Circle membership allows Protiviti to participate in exclusive summits and virtual meetings with Microsoft leaders, enhancing strategic discussions and collaboration opportunities [2] Group 1: Recognition and Achievements - Protiviti's inclusion in the Inner Circle reflects its commitment to delivering innovative solutions that drive business outcomes and enhance productivity through Microsoft technologies [3][4] - The firm has successfully deployed over 250 AI client projects, showcasing its capability to provide scalable and sustainable results for organizations [3] Group 2: Strategic Partnerships - Protiviti emphasizes its collaborative approach with clients, leveraging deep industry knowledge and expertise in the Microsoft ecosystem to achieve transformative outcomes [4] - The recognition as a trusted strategic partner highlights Protiviti's focus on delivering measurable value and competitive advantages for its clients [4] Group 3: Company Overview - Protiviti operates globally with over 90 offices in more than 25 countries, providing consulting and managed solutions across various sectors including finance, technology, and risk management [5][6] - The firm has a strong client base, serving over 80% of Fortune 100 and nearly 80% of Fortune 500 companies, as well as government agencies and smaller businesses [6]

Core Insights - Robert Half (RHI) has experienced a significant decline in business value, approximately 60% since the beginning of 2025, raising questions about potential investment opportunities [1] Company Analysis - The drastic reduction in Robert Half's business value suggests a challenging market environment or operational issues that may need to be addressed [1]

Core Insights - During market turbulence, investors often seek dividend-yielding stocks, which typically have high free cash flows and offer substantial dividends [1] Company Summaries Robert Half Inc (NYSE:RHI) - Dividend Yield: 8.85% - Barclays analyst Manav Patnaik maintained an Equal-Weight rating and reduced the price target from $45 to $36 on October 23, 2025, with an accuracy rate of 74% [7] - Truist Securities analyst Tobey Sommer maintained a Buy rating but lowered the price target from $55 to $50 on October 13, 2025, with an accuracy rate of 70% [7] - Recent News: Robert Half reported weaker-than-expected quarterly results on October 22 [7] Karat Packaging Inc (NASDAQ:KRT) - Dividend Yield: 8.10% - Truist Securities analyst Jake Bartlett maintained a Hold rating and increased the price target from $28 to $31 on May 12, 2025, with an accuracy rate of 66% [7] - William Blair analyst Ryan Merkel downgraded the stock from Outperform to Market Perform on January 2, 2025, with an accuracy rate of 65% [7] - Recent News: Karat Packaging posted weaker-than-expected third-quarter earnings on November 6 [7] Insperity Inc (NYSE:NSP) - Dividend Yield: 7.35% - Truist Securities analyst Tobey Sommer maintained a Hold rating and cut the price target from $50 to $35 on November 4, 2025, with an accuracy rate of 70% [7] - JP Morgan analyst Andrew Polkowitz maintained an Underweight rating and reduced the price target from $51 to $34 on November 4, 2025, with an accuracy rate of 72% [7] - Recent News: Insperity reported worse-than-expected third-quarter financial results and lowered its FY25 adjusted EPS and GAAP EPS guidance below estimates on November 3 [7]

Core Insights - During market turbulence, investors often seek dividend-yielding stocks, which typically have high free cash flows and offer substantial dividends [1] Group 1: Company Ratings and Analyst Insights - Robert Half Inc (NYSE:RHI) has a dividend yield of 8.85%. Barclays analyst Manav Patnaik maintained an Equal-Weight rating and reduced the price target from $45 to $36, with an accuracy rate of 74%. Truist Securities analyst Tobey Sommer maintained a Buy rating but cut the price target from $55 to $50, with an accuracy rate of 70%. Recent news indicates that Robert Half posted weaker-than-expected quarterly results [7] - Karat Packaging Inc (NASDAQ:KRT) has a dividend yield of 8.10%. Truist Securities analyst Jake Bartlett maintained a Hold rating and raised the price target from $28 to $31, with an accuracy rate of 66%. William Blair analyst Ryan Merkel downgraded the stock from Outperform to Market Perform, with an accuracy rate of 65%. Recent news shows that Karat Packaging reported weaker-than-expected third-quarter earnings [7] - Insperity Inc (NYSE:NSP) has a dividend yield of 7.35%. Truist Securities analyst Tobey Sommer maintained a Hold rating and cut the price target from $50 to $35, with an accuracy rate of 70%. JP Morgan analyst Andrew Polkowitz maintained an Underweight rating and slashed the price target from $51 to $34, with an accuracy rate of 72%. Recent news indicates that Insperity reported worse-than-expected third-quarter financial results and lowered its FY25 adjusted EPS and GAAP EPS guidance below estimates [7]

Core Insights - Matt Fitzpatrick won the 2025 DP World Tour Championship, marking his third title in this event and the 11th professional win of his career [1][2] - Protiviti, as Fitzpatrick's brand ambassador, donated 25,000 meals through its 'Birdies for Meals' campaign, which has provided over 700,000 meals since its inception in 2021 [1][4] Company Overview - Protiviti is a global consulting firm with expertise in various sectors, including finance, technology, and risk management, operating in over 25 countries [5] - The firm has been recognized on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list for 11 consecutive years and serves a significant portion of Fortune 100 and Fortune 500 companies [5]

Financial Performance - Service revenues for the first three quarters of 2025 were $4.08 billion, a decrease of 7.6% from the prior year[99]. - Net income for the first three quarters of 2025 was $101 million, with diluted net income per share at $1.01[99]. - For the three months ended September 30, 2025, revenues were $1.35 billion, a decrease of 7.5% compared to $1.47 billion for the same period in 2024[114]. - The company's revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, were $4.08 billion, a decrease of 7.6% compared to $4.41 billion for the same period in 2024[138]. - The company's reported operating income for the three months ended September 30, 2025, was $14 million, down 77.6% from $61 million in 2024[132]. - Reported operating income was $54 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, down 69.5% compared to $177 million for the same period in 2024[155]. - Adjusted operating income for the three months ended September 30, 2025, was $61 million, a decrease of 31.8% from $90 million in 2024[132]. - Adjusted operating income was $139 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, down 47.6% from $265 million for the same period in 2024[155]. Revenue Breakdown - Contract talent solutions revenues decreased by 10.1% to $746 million for the three months ended September 30, 2025, primarily due to a 13.4% decrease in hours worked[115]. - Permanent placement talent solutions revenues were $110 million for the three months ended September 30, 2025, a decrease of 10.7% driven by a 13.3% decrease in placements[117]. - Protiviti revenues were $498 million for the three months ended September 30, 2025, a decrease of 2.6% due to a 10.8% decrease in average hourly bill rates[118]. - Contract talent solutions revenues decreased by 11.8% to $2.27 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, primarily due to a 15.0% decrease in the number of hours worked[139]. - Permanent placement talent solutions revenues were $337 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, down 11.1% from $379 million in 2024, driven by a 14.3% decrease in the number of placements[140]. - Protiviti revenues increased by 0.5% to $1.47 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, due to a 6.5% increase in billable hours[141]. Gross Margin Analysis - Gross margin dollars for the company totaled $504 million, down 11.8% from $572 million for the same period in 2024[119]. - Gross margin for contract talent solutions was $290 million, a decrease of 10.2% from $323 million in the prior year, maintaining a gross margin percentage of 38.9%[121]. - Gross margin for permanent placement talent solutions was $110 million, down 10.7% from $123 million in the previous year, primarily due to decreased revenues[122]. - Protiviti's gross margin dollars were $104 million, a decrease of 17.0% from $126 million in the prior year, with a reported gross margin percentage of 20.9%[123]. - The company's gross margin dollars for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, were $1.51 billion, down 11.6% from $1.71 billion in 2024[142]. - Gross margin dollars for contract talent solutions were $884 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, down 12.4% from $1.01 billion for the same period in 2024[144]. - Gross margin dollars for permanent placement talent solutions were $337 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, down 11.1% from $378 million for the same period in 2024[145]. - Gross margin dollars for Protiviti were $292 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, down 9.6% from $323 million for the same period in 2024[146]. Expenses Overview - Selling, general and administrative expenses were reported at $491 million, a decrease of 4.0% from $511 million in the same quarter of 2024[125]. - Adjusted selling, general and administrative expenses were $453 million, down 7.1% from $488 million in the prior year, representing 33.5% of revenues[125]. - Selling, general and administrative expenses for contract talent solutions were $307 million, a decrease of 3.4% from $318 million in the previous year, with a percentage of revenues increasing to 41.1%[126]. - Selling, general and administrative expenses for permanent placement talent solutions were $107 million, down 6.2% from $113 million, with a percentage of revenues increasing to 96.6%[127]. - Selling, general and administrative expenses were $1.46 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, down 4.9% from $1.53 billion for the same period in 2024[148]. - Selling, general and administrative expenses for contract talent solutions were $902 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, decreasing by 5.9% from $958 million for the same period in 2024[149]. - Selling, general and administrative expenses for permanent placement talent solutions were $324 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, decreasing by 6.5% from $346 million for the same period in 2024[150]. Tax and Cash Flow - The provision for income taxes was 32.6% for the three months ended September 30, 2025, up from 31.2% in 2024, attributed to increased nondeductible expenses[136]. - The provision for income taxes increased to 31.3% for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, up from 30.1% in 2024, due to higher nondeductible expenses[159]. - The company does not anticipate a material impact on income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2025, due to the recent tax reform legislation[137]. - The Company experienced a net cash flow from operating activities of $137 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, down from $255 million in the same period of 2024[162]. - Cash and cash equivalents decreased to $365 million as of September 30, 2025, compared to $570 million in 2024[161]. Capital Expenditures and Stock Repurchase - Capital expenditures for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, totaled $62 million, with approximately 65% allocated to software initiatives and technology infrastructure[164]. - The Company expects capital expenditures for 2025 to range from $75 million to $90 million, with $55 million to $65 million related to software initiatives and technology infrastructure[164]. - The Company repurchased $92 million in common stock during the nine months ended September 30, 2025, compared to $196 million in the same period of 2024[165]. - The Company has authorized the repurchase of up to 5.6 million additional shares of common stock as of September 30, 2025[166]. Economic and Employment Indicators - The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.3% as of August 2025, with a notably low rate of 2.7% for college-educated professionals[101]. - Economic indicators suggest a potential improvement in hiring urgency and project demand as business confidence rebounds[102]. - International revenues increased by 9.6% on a reported basis for the first three quarters of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024[141].