Investing.com — Bank of America double-upgraded Randstad NV (AS:RAND) to “Buy” from “Underperform,” raising the price objective to €42 from €39.50. The brokerage noted early signs of stabilization in European staffing markets and sequential improvement in North America.
BofA’s suggests growth momentum may bottom after Q1 2025, with Randstad’s shares historically rallying ahead of EPS troughs. Despite anticipated downgrades, the bank sees risks concentrated in H1 2025 and notes Randstad’s light positioning, with short interest at 9%.
“With RAND’s share price down 54% vs the SXNP Index over the past three years, we double upgrade Randstad,” analyst said.
Whereas BofA retained an “Underperform” rating on Adecco (SIX:ADEN), lowering the price objective to CHF 19.50 from CHF 24.50. The firm highlighted Adecco’s weaker operational track record, high leverage, and overexposure to deteriorating markets like France. BofA also flagged the risk of dividend cuts in 2025-2026 as Adecco focuses on deleveraging.
BofA signals sequential improvement for the sector starting Q2 2025, aligning with market growth forecasts.