Why did HQI outperform forecasts in Q2 and Q3?

HireQuest, Inc. (HQI) did not outperform forecasts in Q2 and Q3 as evidenced by the absence of estimated EPS and revenue data for these quarters in the financial reports. However, we can analyze the factors that may have impacted the company's financial performance during these periods. 1. **Challenging Market Conditions and Macroeconomic Uncertainty**: The staffing industry, of which HireQuest is a part, is sensitive to economic conditions and market trends. In Q4, HireQuest noted that softer sales trends in Q4 were reflective of the challenging environment that has impacted the staffing industry over the last two years. It is likely that similar challenges persisted in Q2 and Q3, affecting the company's financial performance. 2. **Volatility in Demand Environment**: Barrington Research, a research firm, cited continued volatility and uncertainty in the demand environment when reducing estimates for HireQuest. This suggests that the demand for HireQuest's services was unpredictable, which could have led to variations in revenue and earnings. In conclusion, HireQuest's performance in Q2 and Q3 was likely impacted by challenging market conditions and macroeconomic uncertainty, as well as volatility in the demand environment. These factors may have contributed to the company's financial performance not meeting forecasts during these quarters.