World's biggest work agency Randstad slides on mixed Q2 results

Randstad NV

23/07/2025 09:35

** Shares in the world's largest employment agency Randstad RAND.AS fall as much as over 5% on track for worst day in more than a month, after "mixed" results leave investors on edge

** The stock reversed course after rising as much as 3% in the early trading

** While the Dutch firm Q2 core profit met expectations, analysts point to EPS miss and possible downgrades to third-quarter consensus

** "Net net, EPS came in below expectations at 0.48 euro versus consensus of 0.60 euro", says J.P. Morgan in a note

** The analysts add that despite the "better-than-expected" operating expenses outlook and reassuring comments for the top line, they expect the gross profit margin guidance to drive a mid-single-digit percentage cut to Q3 EBITA estimates

** Their counterparts from KBC Securities struck a similar cord, highlighting net income being "significantly" impacted by loan impairments on CareerBuilder + Monster

** "Randstad continues to experience a tough environment, with outlook for Q3 not indicating massive improvements" the analysts say

 (Reporting by Mateusz Rabiega)

 ((Mateusz.rabiega@thomsonreuters.com))