Here’s Why Keeping Robert Half Shares in Your Portfolio Makes Sense Right Now

Robert Half Inc.: Strengths, Outlook, and Risks

Robert Half Inc. (RHI) continues to benefit from its forward-thinking investments in technology, innovation, and employee-focused strategies, all of which reinforce its market position. However, ongoing economic uncertainty remains a challenge for the company’s future growth.

Analysts anticipate that Robert Half’s earnings for the current year will climb by 15.04% compared to last year. Looking ahead to 2027, earnings are projected to surge by 56.4%.

Positive Drivers for Robert Half

In January 2026, Robert Half was recognized on Fortune’s list of the World’s Most Admired Companies for the 29th year in a row—an achievement unmatched in its industry. This distinction underscores the company’s leadership in innovation, talent management, and service excellence. Such consistent accolades highlight a resilient business model, strong client relationships, and a robust corporate culture, all of which set the stage for ongoing growth and a competitive edge in the global talent solutions sector.

Robert Half’s reputation as a top employer was further solidified by its inclusion in Forbes’ 2026 list of America’s Best Large Employers. This honor, based on comprehensive employee feedback, reflects the company’s commitment to competitive pay, career advancement, and a supportive work environment—factors that help attract and retain top talent. The company’s ongoing focus on employee satisfaction boosts productivity, lowers turnover, and strengthens its standing in the industry.

Recent promotions of senior leaders in technology, transformation, and security demonstrate Robert Half’s commitment to innovation and operational strength. By enhancing leadership in areas such as data science, AI, and cybersecurity, the company is aligning itself with the evolving needs of the industry and the increasing importance of digital solutions. These changes are expected to drive product innovation, improve client experiences, and bolster data security, ensuring Robert Half remains competitive and efficient in the long term.

In 2025, Robert Half was also recognized by both Fortune and Forbes as a leading workplace for women, reflecting its dedication to diversity, inclusion, and career development. This recognition further enhances its reputation as an employer of choice.

The company has demonstrated a strong commitment to rewarding shareholders through regular dividend increases and disciplined share buybacks. Dividend payments rose from $189.29 million in 2022 to $205.91 million in 2023 and reached $220 million in 2024, signaling confidence in its cash flow. Share repurchases totaled $319.9 million in 2022 and $254.63 million in 2023, but were scaled back to $3.51 million in 2024 and $1.7 million by the end of 2025, reflecting a more cautious approach to capital allocation. Together, these actions reinforce investor trust and highlight the company’s focus on delivering long-term value.

Risks and Challenges Facing RHI

Robert Half faces several headwinds, including economic instability, potential tariff increases, and shifts in government policy that could raise costs or delay key projects. Trade disputes and changes in public spending priorities may slow down contract awards, while higher labor expenses could squeeze profit margins and limit growth.

Over the past year, RHI’s stock price has dropped by 54.5%, a steeper decline than the Staffing Firms industry average, which fell by 20.4% during the same period.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

RHI’s Current Rating and Alternative Stock Picks

Robert Half currently holds a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).

For investors seeking higher-ranked alternatives, Dave Inc. and Maximus are worth considering.

• Dave Inc. currently boasts a Zacks Rank of 1. Its projected earnings growth rates are 10.5% for 2026 and 24.5% for 2027. The company has exceeded earnings expectations in each of the last four quarters, with an average surprise of 54.2%.
• Maximus holds a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), with anticipated earnings growth of 15% in 2026 and 5.04% in 2027. Maximus has outperformed earnings estimates in three of the last four quarters, averaging a 25.5% earnings surprise.

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Further Reading and Analysis