Robert Half Delivers Strong Results Amid Challenging Market Conditions
Despite a 2% decline in reported Global Enterprise revenues, Robert Half has managed to post impressive results for the second quarter of 2026. The company's unique combination of high-tech capabilities and high-touch expertise positions it well to navigate the dynamic business environment.
In an effort to discuss the quarter's performance, President and Chief Executive Officer Keith Waddell highlighted that hiring demand continues to improve, with market conditions becoming increasingly supportive of Robert Half's business. As a result, Global Enterprise revenues exceeded the midpoint of their second-quarter guidance.
However, Net income per share in the second quarter was impacted by cost actions taken by Protiviti, a company that Robert Half has an affiliation with. Despite this, Talent Solutions delivered its third consecutive quarter of sequential revenue growth on an adjusted basis, while Permanent Placement operations also posted adjusted year-on-year revenue growth of 2.5%. Net income per share in the second quarter was $0.26, compared to $0.41 in the second quarter a year ago.
During the conference call, Chief Financial Officer Michael Buckley elaborated on the company's performance, stating that Global revenues were $1.336 billion in the second quarter. On an adjusted basis, Talent Solutions revenues were down 2% year-over-year. Contract Talent Solutions bill rates for the second quarter increased 2.3% compared to one year ago.
In another notable development, Robert Half distributed a $0.59 per share cash dividend to its shareholders in June. Cash flow provided by operations during the quarter was $109 million. Return on invested capital for the company was 9% in the second quarter.
The company's ability to adapt to challenging market conditions has been crucial to its success, according to Mr. Waddell. "We're proud of our team for navigating these conditions and delivering strong results," he said during the conference call.
Despite a decline in adjusted gross margin, Robert Half remains optimistic about its prospects. As Mr. Buckley noted, the company's unique combination of services positions it well to help clients navigate the dynamic business environment and connect them with the specialized talent and consulting services they need.
