I’ve always had a soft spot for HP. My first real workhorse computer was an HP, and it lasted me far longer than I expected. The printers and scanners I’ve owned from them have been equally reliable — machines that just keep going, year after year. That kind of longevity builds trust, and it’s one of the reasons I pay attention to HPQ not just as a consumer, but as an investor.
So when I saw HPQ’s stock dip after-hours following their latest earnings release, I didn’t panic. In fact, I saw opportunity. The headlines focused on job cuts and cautious guidance, but the fundamentals tell a different story. EPS came in at $0.93, right in line with expectations, and revenue was slightly ahead. The market’s reaction wasn’t about what HP delivered — it was about what they said might happen next.
HP’s announcement of 4,000–6,000 layoffs and restructuring charges spooked traders, but I see it as a disciplined move. This isn’t a company in retreat; it’s a company tightening its belt to protect margins and keep the dividend alive. And that dividend matters. At a yield of 4.75%, qualified and consistent, HPQ is rewarding shareholders even as it navigates industry headwinds. For me, that’s a sign of resilience.
It’s worth remembering that HP split into two entities years ago: HP Inc. (HPQ), which focuses on personal systems and printing, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), which handles servers, storage, and enterprise solutions. That breakup allowed each company to sharpen its focus. HPQ has leaned into consumer and commercial devices, while HPE pursued enterprise infrastructure. Both moves made sense, and HPQ’s cost reduction measures today are a continuation of that same survival instinct — adapt, streamline, and endure.
I expect a rebound in the morning. Markets often overreact to restructuring news, and once the dust settles, investors remember the core strengths: HP’s brand, its installed base of loyal customers, and its steady cash generation. For me, the after-hours dip is a chance to buy shares at a discount. It’s like picking up a reliable HP printer on sale — you know it will deliver, and you’re happy to lock in the value.
This fits neatly into my Augmented Income Strategy (A.I.S.). By adding discounted shares now, I position myself to trim later at a profit, while simultaneously increasing my dividend income. It’s a strategy that compounds over time, much like HP’s machines that keep working long after others have worn out.
HPQ isn’t a flashy growth stock, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s a company that has proven its durability, both in the products I’ve used and in the way it manages its business. The current dip is not a warning sign — it’s an invitation. And I’m accepting it.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this post are my personal opinions and reflections as an investor and consumer. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or professional advice. Investing in stocks involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Readers should conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Past performance and personal experiences with HP products do not guarantee future results.
