Group 1: Job Market Overview - U.S. employers added 139,000 jobs in May, exceeding economists' expectations of 125,000-130,000, while the unemployment rate remained steady at 4.2% [1] - Job growth was strongest in the healthcare and leisure/hospitality sectors, which added 62,000 and 48,000 jobs, respectively [9] Group 2: Wage Growth and Inflation - Average hourly earnings rose 3.9% year over year, outpacing April's inflation rate of 2.3% [2] Group 3: Investment Opportunities - Paylocity (PCTY) has consistently surpassed earnings expectations, beating EPS estimates for its fiscal third quarter by 16% in May, with an average EPS surprise of 15.4% over the last four quarters [4] - Maximus (MMS) is experiencing rising EPS revisions and trades at a forward earnings multiple of 10.8X, with fiscal 2025 and FY26 EPS estimates rising nearly 7% and 4% in the last 30 days [5][7] - Other payroll stocks to consider include Dayforce (DAY) and Paychex (PAYX), along with Barrett Business Services (BBSI), all holding a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) [8]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported revenue of $1,877 million for Q1 FY 2026, representing growth of approximately 2% year-over-year due to the ramp-up of new and existing programs [11] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $157 million, resulting in an adjusted EBITDA margin of 8.4% [11] - Adjusted diluted earnings per share were flat year-over-year at $1.92, impacted by a higher tax rate and lower adjusted EBITDA [12] - Free cash flow was negative $44 million, affected by the timing of receivables on two programs [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company secured net bookings of $2,400 million for a book-to-bill ratio of 1.3, including key recompete contracts [10] - The backlog of pending awards remained steady at approximately $20,000 million, providing visibility into future bookings [10] - The company expects to achieve a trailing twelve-month book-to-bill ratio of 1.2 in the coming quarters [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Department of Defense (DoD) is expected to see stronger budget support, particularly for the Navy, Air Force, and Space Force, while the Army may face challenges [6][7] - The company noted over $1 billion in additional budget for the Department of Transportation and over $40 billion for the Department of Homeland Security [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is pivoting its portfolio towards mission and enterprise IT, aligning with the new administration's strategic priorities [8] - The strategy includes leveraging proven expertise in mission integration and digital engineering to drive program success [8] - The company aims for sustained profitable growth and is focused on executing its strategy in the coming quarters [13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The operating environment has stabilized, but there are still procurement delays and higher turnover rates among customers [5] - The company is cautiously optimistic about future growth, expecting to achieve revenue guidance of $7.6 billion to $7.75 billion for FY 2026 [15] - Management highlighted the importance of adapting to the evolving budget environment and maintaining a focus on contract growth [55][56] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately $125 million of shares in Q1 and targets annual repurchases of $350 million to $400 million [17][18] - The company is not seeing significant risks from recent DoD communications regarding contracting practices [75] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on operating environment and budget priorities - Management noted that the operating environment has stabilized, with significant turnover in acquisition personnel affecting procurement processes [22] Question: Competitiveness in procurement environment - Management acknowledged increased competitiveness but expressed confidence in their submission pipeline and win rates [25][26] Question: Known headwinds from recompetes - The only significant known recompete headwind is the NASA program loss, which will conclude in Q3 [30][32] Question: Nature of cost overruns in space program - Management explained that cost overruns were due to challenges in the tech development phase, but they expect to recover as the program transitions to the sustainment phase [34][35] Question: Overview of end markets and opportunities - Management provided insights into the civilian and defense sectors, highlighting growth opportunities in various agencies and programs [44][46] Question: Impact of continuing resolutions on awards - Management indicated that while there are some delays, the solicitation of proposals remains robust, and they are optimistic about future awards [53][54] Question: Margin trajectory and expectations - Management expects civil margins to improve and defense margins to remain stable, with a focus on executing at higher bid thresholds [86]

Group 1: PVH - PVH specializes in designing and marketing branded dress shirts, neckwear, sportswear, jeanswear, intimate apparel, swim products, footwear, handbags, and related products [1] - PVH has a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) and has seen the Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings increase by 8.3% over the last 60 days [1] - The company has a price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) of 6.66, significantly lower than the industry average of 14.30, and possesses a Value Score of A [2] Group 2: Popular - Popular offers a comprehensive suite of banking and financial services, including retail and commercial banking, auto and equipment leasing and financing, mortgage loans, insurance, investment banking, and broker-dealer services [3] - Popular has a Zacks Rank of 1 and has experienced a 4.8% increase in the Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings over the last 60 days [3] - The company has a price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) of 9.82, which is lower than the industry average of 10.70, and also possesses a Value Score of A [4] Group 3: Maximus - Maximus operates government health and human services programs globally [4] - The company holds a Zacks Rank of 1 and has seen the Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings increase by 6.7% over the last 60 days [4] - Maximus has a price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) of 11.18, compared to the industry average of 18.00, and has a Value Score of A [4]

OECD Public Governance Reviews OECD Public Governance Scan of Kazakhstan Toward a More Agile, Responsive and Effective Public Administration OECD Public Governance Scan of Kazakhstan Toward a More Agile, Responsive and Effective Public Administration OECD Public Governance Reviews OECD Public Governance Reviews OECD Public Governance Scan of Kazakhstan TOWARD A MORE AGILE, RESPONSIVE AND EFFECTIVE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION This document, as well as any data and map included herein, are without prejudice to the ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For fiscal year 2025, the company achieved over 12% revenue growth, nearly all organic, and adjusted EBITDA increased 12% to $1,315 million, yielding an adjusted EBITDA margin of 11% [29][30] - Adjusted diluted earnings per share grew over 15%, driven by increased profitability and a lower share count, with diluted earnings per share at $1.52, a 55% increase year over year [38][39] - Free cash flow for the quarter was $194 million, resulting from $218 million of cash from operations, less $24 million of CapEx [39] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The defense and intelligence businesses saw revenue growth of 145% year over year, while the civil business experienced flat revenue in the fourth quarter [32][35] - The company anticipates a low double-digit revenue decline in the civil business for fiscal year 2026 due to a slowdown in procurement and spending [35][42] - The AI business grew over 30% year over year to approximately $800 million, indicating strong demand and increasing integration into government operations [19][30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company ended the fiscal year with a record backlog of $37 billion, up 15% year over year, and a qualified pipeline for fiscal year 2026 of $53.4 billion [35][36] - The book-to-bill ratio for the quarter was 0.71 times, in line with historical averages, while the trailing twelve-month book-to-bill ratio was 1.39 times, above the trailing five-year average of 1.28 times [35][36] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on restructuring its civil business to return to growth rapidly after an adjustment period, while also positioning itself to lead in outcome-based opportunities [23][42] - The Vault strategy, which emphasizes velocity, leadership, and technology, aligns with government changes and aims to enhance mission acceleration and efficiency [18][26] - The company is committed to investing in advanced technologies, particularly AI, and strengthening partnerships with technology firms to drive innovation [20][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the federal government is rethinking agency missions and looking for ways to reduce spending and increase efficiency, which has led to a slowdown in civil procurement [10][11] - The defense and national security portfolio is expected to continue growing, driven by the injection of AI and commercial technology into missions [11][12] - Management expressed optimism about future opportunities, particularly in AI and advanced technology, despite the challenges in the civil business [26][45] Other Important Information - The company plans to deploy $700 million to $800 million in free cash flow for fiscal year 2026, with expectations of a meaningful reacceleration in the second half of the year [44][45] - The board of directors approved a quarterly dividend of 55 cents per share, payable on June 27 [41] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company manage the impact of unpredictable descoping and cancellations? - Management highlighted the strength in defense and intelligence sectors, while acknowledging a reset in the civil business, which is expected to be a one-time adjustment [50][51] Question: What are the expectations for the multiyear growth environment? - Management indicated that the civil business has undergone most reviews positively, while defense spending is expected to increase, particularly in Indo-Pacific and homeland defense [58][59] Question: How does the company plan to invest in commercial terms in defense? - Management emphasized the importance of partnerships with commercial technology firms and the ability to co-create solutions that meet mission needs [85][86] Question: What is the company's strategy regarding share repurchases and capital deployment? - Management confirmed a commitment to share repurchases and strategic investments, particularly in venture capital to support technology advancements [64][66] Question: How does the company view its branding and public perception? - Management acknowledged the challenges of being a market leader in media coverage but emphasized efforts to improve communication and clarify the company's positioning as an advanced technology firm [90][92]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For fiscal year 2025, the company achieved over 12% revenue growth, nearly all organic, with adjusted EBITDA increasing 12% to $1,315 million, yielding an adjusted EBITDA margin of 11% [30][31] - Adjusted diluted earnings per share grew over 15%, driven by increased profitability and a lower share count, with diluted earnings per share at $1.52, a 55% increase year over year [38][39] - Free cash flow for the quarter was $194 million, resulting from $218 million of cash from operations, less $24 million of CapEx [39] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The defense and intelligence businesses saw significant growth, with revenue up 145% year over year, while the civil business experienced flat revenue in Q4 and is expected to decline in the low double digits in FY 2026 [33][35] - The AI business grew over 30% year over year to approximately $800 million, indicating strong demand and increasing integration into government operations [18][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company ended the fiscal year with a record year-end backlog of $37 billion, up 15% year over year, and a qualified pipeline for FY 2026 of $53.4 billion [35][36] - The book-to-bill ratio for the quarter was 0.71 times, in line with historical averages, while the trailing twelve-month book-to-bill ratio was 1.39 times, above the trailing five-year average of 1.28 times [35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is restructuring its civil business to return to growth rapidly after a reset period, while focusing on capturing major outcome-based opportunities [22][23] - The Vault strategy, emphasizing velocity, leadership, and technology, aligns with government changes, particularly in AI and advanced technology [17][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a near-term disruption in the civil business due to government spending reductions and procurement slowdowns, but expressed optimism about growth opportunities in defense and intelligence sectors [10][29] - The outlook for FY 2026 anticipates revenue between $12 billion and $12.5 billion, with adjusted EBITDA in the range of $1,315 million to $1,370 million, maintaining an adjusted EBITDA margin of about 11% [42] Other Important Information - The company plans to make targeted cost and headcount reductions to match anticipated demand, with an expected 7% reduction in staff concentrated in the civil business [12][37] - The board of directors approved a quarterly dividend of 55¢ per share, payable on June 27, reflecting a strong balance sheet and commitment to shareholder value [41] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company manage the impact of unpredictable descoping and cancellations? - Management highlighted the dual dynamics of a reset in the civil business and continued strength in defense and intelligence, indicating a proactive restructuring to position for growth [47][48] Question: What are the expectations for the multiyear growth environment, particularly in defense and civil? - The company noted a significant increase in defense spending and a focus on technology integration, while the civil business is undergoing a reset with positive reviews of their technology [55][56] Question: How does the company plan to address the low double-digit decline in the civil business? - Management indicated that the civil business has undergone most reviews positively, and they expect growth to resume as new opportunities arise in the second half of the fiscal year [68][73] Question: How does the company view its branding and perception in the market? - Management acknowledged being a market leader attracts attention, and they are working to improve communication about their advanced technology capabilities [88][90] Question: What is the outlook for the AI business and its future programs? - The company remains optimistic about its AI business, emphasizing its integration into various missions and the potential for significant growth in the sector [99][100]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported revenue of $89.2 million for the second quarter, down from $101 million in the prior year period, primarily due to the conversion of certain VA and DoD programs to small business set-aside contracts [16][18] - EBITDA for the second quarter was $9.4 million compared to $10.2 million last year, reflecting a decrease due to lower overall revenue levels [18] - Operating cash generation was approximately $14.5 million during the quarter, leading to a year-to-date operating cash flow of $3 million, down from $10.3 million last year [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a contraction of approximately $11.8 million in revenue due to small business set-aside conversions, which accounted for the total decrease in revenue [18] - Despite the revenue decline, key technology services revenue grew over first quarter results, indicating resilience in certain business lines [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has over $1 billion in contracts currently under review, with expected award decisions in the second half of the fiscal year [12] - The administration's focus on efficiency and cost-cutting is expected to create opportunities for the company, particularly in digital transformation and cybersecurity [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to leverage its advanced capabilities and new business pipeline to align with the current administration's goals and policies, focusing on efficiency and accountability [10][13] - The strategy includes moving up the margin scale in a large market by providing unique, comprehensive solutions that enhance federal program effectiveness [14][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the alignment of the company's capabilities with the administration's priorities, despite some uncertainty in government programs and budget cuts [10][11] - The company believes it is on sound financial footing and has a portfolio of high-value technology-enabled applications that remain in demand [21] Other Important Information - The company reduced its debt by $15.3 million during the quarter, ending with $151.7 million outstanding, and expects to continue this trend throughout the fiscal year [19][20] - The company is contracted to manage five CMOP locations through October 2025, providing visibility into future revenue contributions [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the revenue run rate on CMOP contracts for the rest of the year? - Management expects the quarterly run rate to be around $23 to $25 million for the remaining locations, providing better visibility for the third and fourth quarters [28] Question: How is the company impacted by NIH's shutdown of the long-term women's health study? - Management confirmed that they were not involved in that study and believe the overall budgetary impact from the new administration will be neutral to slightly positive [30][31] Question: What is the status of the $76 million Navy award contract? - The contract is continuing to grow, with ongoing phases of work and no anticipated dips in performance [42][43] Question: Are the upcoming $1 billion awards related to IDIQs? - Yes, the company is seeing continued activity related to IDIQs, although the administrative process has caused some delays in contract awards [46][48]

Core Viewpoint - Maximus reported quarterly earnings of $2.01 per share, significantly exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.37 per share, marking a 46.72% earnings surprise [1]. Financial Performance - The company achieved revenues of $1.36 billion for the quarter ended March 2025, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 5.83% and showing a slight increase from $1.35 billion year-over-year [2]. - Over the last four quarters, Maximus has exceeded consensus EPS estimates three times and topped revenue estimates four times [2]. Stock Performance and Outlook - Maximus shares have declined approximately 10% since the beginning of the year, compared to a 4.3% decline in the S&P 500 [3]. - The current consensus EPS estimate for the upcoming quarter is $1.52 on revenues of $1.3 billion, and for the current fiscal year, it is $6.08 on revenues of $5.31 billion [7]. Industry Context - The Government Services industry, to which Maximus belongs, is currently ranked in the bottom 8% of over 250 Zacks industries, indicating potential challenges ahead [8].