Paylocity Holding(PCTY) - 2026 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for Q1 was $408.2 million, representing a 12% increase year-over-year [6][16] - Recurring and other revenue grew by 14% compared to the same period last year [6][16] - Adjusted gross margin improved to 75.1%, up from 74% in Q1 of the previous year [16] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 was $146.4 million, with a margin of 35.9%, exceeding guidance by $11.4 million [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The launch of Paylocity for Finance contributed to strong revenue growth, expanding the platform's capabilities [6][7] - The AI assistant's usage has more than doubled, with over 1.2 million questions answered in the past year [8][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported stable workforce levels at client companies, consistent with previous quarters [28] - The referral channel contributed over 25% of new business in Q1, indicating strong market demand [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its AI capabilities across its platform to enhance user experience and drive product adoption [7][11] - Paylocity aims to leverage its broker-neutral position to strengthen its market presence and client partnerships [10][87] - Long-term financial targets have been increased, with revenue expectations rising from $2 billion to $3 billion [22][23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the stability of the demand environment and the ability to continue driving growth [28][58] - The company anticipates a positive impact from recent tax legislation changes, benefiting free cash flow by approximately $65 million in Fiscal 2026 [20][72] Other Important Information - The company repurchased nearly 1.2 million shares for $200 million in Q1, reflecting confidence in its financial position [19] - Paylocity was recognized as a leader in multiple HCM product categories, enhancing its market reputation [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on the macro environment and headcount assumptions - Management noted continued stability in workforce levels and maintained flat workforce assumptions for the fiscal year [28] Question: Long-term guidance and AI benefits - Management indicated that both natural business scale and AI benefits contribute to confidence in long-term growth, though it's still early for AI impacts [29] Question: Insights on the Office of the CFO and Airbase acquisition - Management reported strong early traction for the Finance product and positive feedback from clients [34][36] Question: Impact of Paylocity for Finance on long-term financial targets - Management expressed confidence that the Finance solution will achieve margins similar to the rest of the portfolio [82] Question: Competitive landscape and win rates - Management highlighted a differentiated product portfolio and stable demand environment, with a focus on execution [87]