HireQuest, Inc. (HQI)
NASDAQIndustrialsStaffing & Employment ServicesSnapshot 2026-09-09
$15.94-2.03%
Close 2026-09-09 · 1-day change
NASDAQIndustrialsStaffing & Employment ServicesSnapshot 2026-09-09
Intact: The reason to own it still holds.
HireQuest aims to keep its dividend at $0.06 per share. It plans to increase operating income to about $1.48 million next quarter. The company is working to stabilize revenue near $6.52 million. Recent buybacks and acquisitions support growth hopes.
Revenue has fallen from $8.5 million to $6.5 million recently. Operating income is below past highs, showing weak profit gains. Earnings missed estimates in the last report. These trends could continue or worsen.
The price is about 7% above our fair value near $11. Analysts expect no revenue growth next year. Our view sees risks in revenue and profit recovery.
Breaks if: dividend falls below $0.06 per share next quarter
Breaks if: operating income falls below $1.31 million next quarter
This is not a price target or investment advice.
A long-form read on the 1–3 year hold thesis. It updates when the weekly evidence changes.
HQI represents a durable compounder with a focus on maintaining dividends and improving profitability. The current thesis state is intact, supported by strong recent financial performance despite some challenges.
The market currently reflects a neutral valuation, with expectations slightly above average compared to peers. There is a low expectations gap, indicating that investors are not overly optimistic or pessimistic about HQI's future performance.
Management has shown robust earnings quality and is working to reduce expenses and stabilize revenue post-divestiture. However, revenue has declined year-over-year, and while profitability is improving, the overall trajectory remains uncertain.
The long-term thesis hinges on management's ability to maintain guidance and stabilize revenue, as well as the performance of sector bellwethers like PAYX, RHI, and KFY. Any changes in guidance or performance from these companies could significantly impact HQI's outlook.
The most important moves since the prior daily snapshot.
Yes, our read has strengthened. The latest earnings beat supports this view. Revenue growth is stabilizing and growing after the divestiture. This positive trend reinforces the reason to own the stock. There are no new threats affecting the thesis.
as of 2026-09-09
Review the evidence to watch, what would become a concern, and what would make it less concerning.
Not investment advice. Scores describe historical and current data; they are not forecasts of future returns. Consult a licensed advisor before making investment decisions.
Focus on increasing operating income through improved operational efficiency.
Breaks if: revenue falls below $6.52 million next quarter
In the next 1 to 3 years, HQI's performance will depend on management execution and sector dynamics. Not investment advice.