Release Date: November 12, 2024

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

• DHI Group Inc (NYSE:DHX) reported a positive trajectory for tech labor demand, with a 3% year-over-year increase in new tech job postings.
• The tech unemployment rate decreased to 2.6% by the end of October, indicating a healthier job market.
• ClearanceJobs, a segment of DHI Group Inc (NYSE:DHX), saw a 6% increase in revenue year-over-year.
• DHI Group Inc (NYSE:DHX) continues to focus on recession-resistant sectors like aerospace, healthcare, and financial services.
• The company maintained a strong adjusted EBITDA margin of 24% for the third quarter, demonstrating operational efficiency.

Negative Points

• Total revenue for DHI Group Inc (NYSE:DHX) declined by 6% year-over-year in the third quarter.
• Dice, another segment of DHI Group Inc (NYSE:DHX), experienced a 12% decrease in revenue year-over-year.
• Total bookings were down 7% year-over-year, indicating challenges in securing new business.
• The company anticipates a year-over-year decline in bookings of 8 to 10% for the fourth quarter.
• DHI Group Inc (NYSE:DHX) faces continued budget constraints within both employers and staffing firms, impacting renewal rates.

Q & A Highlights

• Warning! GuruFocus has detected 6 Warning Signs with DHX.

Q: Can you discuss the dynamics with the downtick in renewal rates for major staffing clients and any risks associated with this as you approach key renewal seasons? A: Art Zeile, CEO: There is always a risk, but the majority of our churn is with smaller staffing firms. However, if larger firms reduce their usage, it impacts our revenue renewal rate. We are concerned about renewals, especially in Q4 and Q1, as most contracts align with the calendar year. We see positive signals, but remain cautious.

Q: What gives you confidence in returning to bookings growth next year? A: Art Zeile, CEO: The tech industry has historically grown 3-4% annually, except during major downturns. We expect growth initiatives and voluntary attrition to drive demand. There's a sense of pent-up demand among tech workers, and we are optimistic about 2025.

Q: Can you provide commentary on Q4 renewal trends outside of staffing and expectations for enterprise customers? A: Ramy Levy, CFO: We expect Q4 to be similar to Q3 for both Dice and CJ. We are seeing some positive signs, but our outlook remains conservative. The Fed's rate cuts and the election outcome may influence future bookings activity.

Q: How will renewed bookings growth impact margin management in 2025? Are you willing to invest ahead of the curve? A: Art Zeile, CEO: We plan to be cautious and will need to see actual bookings demand before making significant investments. We aim to maintain margins and will adjust marketing spend based on clear evidence of demand.

Q: Regarding Q4 bookings guidance, is further degradation expected in the Dice segment? A: Ramy Levy, CFO: Expectations for Q4 are similar to Q3. Some large multiyear customers are renewing at lower levels due to the tech hiring environment. This is a healthy reset, and we anticipate growth as tech hiring improves.

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.