15 Best Micro and Small Cap Stocks to Buy According to Jim Simons’ Renaissance Technologies

11. CRA International Inc (NASDAQ:CRAI)

Renaissance Technologies Equity Stake: $36.34 Million

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 23

Stock Upside Potential: 67.64%

Market Cap: $953 Million

CRA International Inc (NASDAQ:CRAI) is one of the best micro and small cap stocks to buy according to Jim Simons’ Renaissance Technologies. Analysts expect the stock to rise more than 67% over the next 12 months.

CRA International Inc (NASDAQ:CRAI) released its Q1 2026 results on May 7. It was another record quarter for the company. Revenue jumped 10.5% YoY to $201.0 million, marking the highest quarterly revenue in the company’s history. This solid performance comes on the heels of the previous record-setting Q4 2025 revenue figure. The consulting company achieved growth across eight practice areas during the quarter.

In terms of market regions, the company breaks out revenue into North American and international segments. The international business grew the fastest at 20.3%, compared to the 8.5% growth of the North American business.

However, net income dropped to $11.1 million from $18 million a year ago. In the latest quarter, the company faced higher expenses in everything from cost of services to selling, general, and administrative costs.

During Q1, the company returned $25.3 million to shareholders through a combination of dividend payments and share repurchases. It exited the quarter with $32.5 million in cash and cash equivalents.

CRA International Inc (NASDAQ:CRAI) is a global consulting firm. Its service areas include economics, finance, and management. The company provides expert testimony and strategic advice to law firms, accounting firms, corporations, government agencies, and other clients.

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