Automatic Data Processing Board Approves $6B Buyback as Analysts Average $306.42 Target

ADPADP

Analysts maintain an average 'Hold' rating on ADP with two 'Sell', nine 'Hold', and two 'Buy' ratings and an average 12-month target of $306.42. The board has authorized a $6.0 billion stock repurchase program and set FY2026 EPS guidance at $10.811-11.011, while insiders sold 2,249 shares totaling $589,852.

1. Strong Q2 Revenue and EPS Outlook

Automatic Data Processing is expected to report second-quarter fiscal 2026 revenue of approximately $5.4 billion, reflecting a 4.5% increase year-over-year, and adjusted earnings per share of $2.58. Growth in Employer Services, which processes payroll for more than 40 million workers globally, is projected at 5.0%, while the Professional Employer Organization (PEO) division is forecast to expand revenue by 6.2% as small and mid-market clients continue to outsource HR administration.

2. Segment Performance Driving Consistency

Employer Services should generate roughly $4.6 billion of the total revenue, supported by new business sales that rose 8.1% in the prior quarter. PEO revenues, expected at $800 million, remain buoyed by a 12.5% jump in client headcount over the last year. The company reported a net margin near 20% in the previous quarter, driven by 70% return on equity, indicating operational leverage across both segments.

3. Capital Return and Dividend Strategy

On January 14, the board authorized a $6.0 billion stock repurchase program, equal to about 5.8% of outstanding shares, signaling confidence in long-term value. ADP also declared a quarterly dividend of $1.70 per share, representing an annualized yield of 2.6% and covering 67% of trailing twelve-month earnings. The dividend record date is March 13, with payment on April 1.

4. Analyst Ratings and FY2026 Guidance

Thirteen research firms currently cover the stock, assigning an average rating of Hold, with two Buys, nine Holds and two Sells. The consensus twelve-month target price stands at $306.42. ADP has provided full-year 2026 EPS guidance of $10.81 to $11.01, implying growth of roughly 6% over analysts’ current estimates of $9.93 for the fiscal year.

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