The only time I use “pal” (or “buddy” for that matter), is as a nice way of saying “jerk”. If I’m being being neutral to someone I don’t know I’ll say “miss”, “ma’am” or “sir” or “man”.
Jimmy Fallon says “pal”, presumably in the nice way, to his guests ALL THE TIME, and yes it does come off as somewhat insincere and bugs me. That might be part of why I think he’s likely an insincere guy.