Charles River Associates (CRAI Quick QuoteCRAI - Free Report) has had an impressive run over the past year. The stock has gained 80.8%, significantly outperforming the 4.6% rally of the consulting services industry.

Reasons for CRAI’s Upside

CRAI, as a relatively small player in the consulting and research services sector, presents a compelling narrative when evaluating its market position and growth potential. The company has carved out a niche with its strong reputation for delivering high-quality analytical and strategic consulting services across diverse industries. Despite its size, CRAI benefits from the growing demand for specialized advisory services in an increasingly complex global marketplace.

Its ability to attract top talent, combined with a focus on innovation and client-centered solutions, positions it for significant growth. As industries grapple with rapid technological advancements, regulatory complexities, and evolving market dynamics, CRAI's expertise could see rising demand, allowing it to capture a larger share of its addressable market. Additionally, its proven track record of delivering value to clients may help it sustain long-term partnerships, further bolstering its growth trajectory.

Given the nature of the business, CRAI’s success depends on the talent that it can acquire and retain. CRAI has built and sustained a strong reputation for delivering high-quality consulting services driven by its highly qualified professionals. Nearly 75% of its senior consultants hold advanced degrees, including doctorates, and are recognized leaders in their fields. In 2023, CRAI employed 1,004 consulting staff, comprising 156 officers, 527 senior staff and 321 junior staff.

Additionally, the company collaborates with independent experts from top academic institutions, enhancing its ability to address complex client needs. These experts also help generate new business opportunities and connect CRAI to other leading professionals in academia and industry. Access to a global talent pool enhances the company's ability to solve complex issues, making it a preferred choice for multinational clients. CRAI’s ability to collaborate across borders and acquire knowledge in varied industries ensures it remains competitive. CRAI’s revenue per employee has increased at a compound annual growth rate of 1.3% from 2019 to 2023.

Charles River returns value to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases. Over the years, the company has steadily increased its dividend payouts, paying $8.29 million in fiscal 2021, $9.58 million in 2022 and $10.8 million in 2023. Dividend per share has grown alongside, rising from $1.04 in 2021 to $1.24 in 2022 and $1.44 in 2023, reflecting a consistent commitment to enhancing shareholder returns.

Share repurchase activity has varied, with $44.9 million repurchased in 2021, $27.6 million in 2022 and $24.8 million in 2023. This consistency has persisted despite fluctuations in the company’s cash position, underscoring its dedication to creating long-term value for investors and its confidence in the business’s long-term prospects. Reflecting these positives, CRAI shares have surged 87% over the past year.

CRAI’s Zacks Rank and Other Stocks to Consider

Charles River currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

Some other top-ranked stocks in the broader Zacks Business Services sector are AppLovin (APP Quick QuoteAPP - Free Report) and Booz Allen Hamilton (BAH Quick QuoteBAH - Free Report) .

AppLovin flaunts a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

APP has a long-term earnings growth expectation of 20%. It delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 26.2%, on average.

Booz Allen Hamilton carries a Zacks Rank of 2 at present. It has a long-term earnings growth expectation of 13.3%.

BAH delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 11.7%, on average.