Stifel Reaffirms Buy Rating on Accenture (ACN) Despite AI and Economic Challenges

Core Insights - Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is recognized as one of the best beaten-down dividend stocks, with a share price decline of nearly 33% since the beginning of 2025 [2][3] Group 1: Company Performance - Stifel reaffirmed its Buy rating on Accenture and set a price target of $315.00, despite ongoing challenges related to AI transition and economic conditions [3] - The projected organic revenue growth for Accenture is around 2% for fiscal 2026, which is approximately 350 basis points below its pre-pandemic average [3] - Two main factors affecting Accenture's performance are persistent macroeconomic headwinds and the high costs associated with AI technology adoption [4] Group 2: Dividend Information - Accenture has a strong track record as a reliable dividend payer, boasting 15 consecutive years of dividend growth [5] - The company currently offers a quarterly dividend of $1.63 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 2.79% as of October 16 [5] Group 3: Market Outlook - Stifel notes that the challenges faced by Accenture are expected to diminish over time, referencing past periods of technological change that led to recovery within 12 to 24 months [4]