We recently compiled a list of the 10 Worst Performing IT Services Stocks to Buy According to Analysts. In this article, we are going to take a look at where ASGN Incorporated (NYSE:ASGN) stands against the other IT services stocks.
The IT services industry constitutes a diverse range of technology-driven solutions, including consulting, software development, and system integration. Companies across various sectors depend on these services to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen cybersecurity, develop software solutions, manage IT infrastructure, and receive technical support and strategic guidance. The global IT services market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the rapid adoption of digital technologies, increasing IT investments, and the surging demand for cloud-based solutions.
According to Mordor Intelligence, the market is projected to expand from $1.3 trillion in 2025 to $1.94 trillion by 2030, reflecting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.38% over this period. Their report highlights how businesses are embracing digital transformation to improve efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and drive innovation. Additionally, emerging technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and augmented reality (AR) are reshaping the IT services landscape, with 5G expected to become the dominant mobile access technology by 2028. The rising adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the shift toward remote work have further amplified the need for robust IT infrastructure. Meanwhile, the increasing complexity of IT environments is prompting organizations to outsource IT services, further fuelling market expansion.
A report by Grand View Research underscores the growing role of IT services in supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) as they undergo digital transformation to stay competitive in the global market. The availability of cloud-based solutions has made it easier for smaller businesses to adopt advanced technologies without requiring significant upfront investments. Additionally, the IT and telecom sector is witnessing steady growth as telecom operators increasingly adopt cloud computing and other digital technologies to modernize their infrastructure and provide value-added services.
The U.S. IT services industry has delivered a strong performance so far in 2025. The S&P 500 IT Services Industry Index has gained approximately 5.0% this year, outperforming the broader S&P 500 benchmark, which has posted a negative total return of 1.6% as of March 4. The global IT services market is expected to maintain its momentum, supported by the widespread adoption of digital innovations, rising IT expenditures, and growing demand for scalable and secure IT solutions.
Our Methodology
To determine the 10 worst performing IT services stocks to buy according to analysts, we began by screening all U.S.-listed IT Services companies with a market capitalization above $300 million or stock price above $10, to eliminate smaller and more volatile stocks. Next, we sorted the companies based on their year-to-date (YTD) returns. Further, we selected companies which have a potential upside of 10% or more. Finally, we ranked the bottom 10 stocks based on YTD underperformance, placing the worst-performing ones at the top. Additionally, we also included data on hedge fund holdings in these companies as of Q4 2024 to provide further insight into investor interest.
Note: All pricing data is as of market close on March 4.
Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 373.4% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 218 percentage points (see more details here).
A finance executive tapping away on a digital tablet, demonstrating the company’s digital innovation.
ASGN Incorporated (NYSE:ASGN)
YTD Returns: -21%
Potential Upside: 51%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 24
ASGN Incorporated (NYSE:ASGN) provides IT services and solutions to both commercial enterprises and government organizations. The company supports clients in developing, implementing, and managing essential IT and business solutions through its comprehensive service offerings.
On February 4, ASGN Incorporated (NYSE:ASGN) announced its acquisition of TopBloc LLC for $340 million in cash and equity. TopBloc specializes in deploying Workday software and offers on-demand support in key areas such as human capital management, financial management, and payroll services. This acquisition is intended to enhance ASGN’s ability to deliver ERP solutions via the Workday platform while also unlocking cross-selling opportunities across its existing customer base.
In response to the announcement, Canaccord Genuity analyst Joseph Vafi highlighted ASGN Incorporated (NYSE:ASGN)’s strategic progress and financial resilience. While acknowledging that the company’s revenue growth has been relatively moderate, he emphasized its strong profit margins and ongoing transition toward higher-value consulting services. The acquisition of TopBloc further solidifies ASGN Incorporated (NYSE:ASGN)’s presence in the ERP market. Additionally, the analyst highlighted the company’s stock buyback program and disciplined M&A approach as positive factors in his assessment. He reiterated his Buy rating on the stock with a price target of $115.
Overall ASGN ranks 5th on our list of the worst performing IT services stocks to buy according to analysts. While we acknowledge the potential of ASGN as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and doing so within a shorter time frame. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than ASGN but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.
READ NEXT: 20 Best AI Stocks To Buy Now and Complete List of 59 AI Companies Under $2 Billion in Market Cap.
Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
