AZZ Inc. provides hot-dip galvanizing and coil coating solutions in the United States, Canada, Brazil, China, the Netherlands, Poland, Singapore, and India. The company operates through AZZ Metal Coatings and AZZ Precoat Metals segments. The AZZ Metal Coatings segment offers metal finishing solutions for corrosion protection, including hot-dip galvanizing, spin galvanizing, powder coating, anodizing, and plating to steel fabrication and other industries. It serves fabricators or manufacturers that provide services to the electrical and telecommunications, bridge and highway, petrochemical, and general industrial markets, as well as original equipment manufacturers. The AZZ Precoat Metals segment provides aesthetic and corrosion protective coatings and related value-added services for steel and aluminum coil primarily serving the construction; appliance; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; container; transportation; and other end markets. The company was incorporated in 1956 and is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas.

AZZ Inc.

Emerson Electric Co. EMR has been witnessing solid momentum across the Intelligent Devices and Software and Control segments. Within the Intelligent Devices segment, it is seeing strength in the Final Control business, driven by solid momentum in power end markets. Robust growth across the Americas and Asia, Middle East & Africa regions is supporting the Measurement & Analytical business. Within the Software and Control segment, robust growth across AspenTech and strength in the power and process end markets are aiding the Control Systems & Software business. Given the strength across its end markets, Emerson expects net sales to increase approximately 3.5% year over year in fiscal 2025 (ending September 2025).
EMR solidified its product portfolio and leveraged business opportunities through asset additions. In March 2025, the company acquired all outstanding shares of Aspen Technology’s common stock that it did not own. It is worth noting that Emerson acquired a 55% majority stake in AspenTech in 2022, later increasing its ownership to around 57%. With the close of this buyout, AspenTech now operates as a fully owned subsidiary of Emerson. The inclusion of AspenTech will boost the company’s automation portfolio and expand its reach into new markets. It will enable Emerson to advance its capabilities in software-defined control under industrial automation.
In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023, the company completed the acquisitions of Afag and Flexim. The buyout of Afag boosted Emerson’s capabilities in factory automation, helping it expand into lucrative end markets including battery manufacturing, automotive, packaging, medical, life sciences and electronics. The acquisition of Flexim added to its existing flow measurement positions in coriolis, differential pressure, magmeter and vortex flow measurement, and expanded its automation portfolio and measurement capabilities.
Emerson is committed to rewarding its shareholders handsomely through dividend payments and share buybacks. In the first nine months of fiscal 2025 (ended June 2025), it paid out dividends of $895 million and repurchased common stocks worth $1.15 billion. In November 2024, the company hiked its dividend by 0.5%. Emerson plans to repurchase shares worth $1.1 billion and pay out dividends of $1.2 billion in fiscal 2025.
EMR’s Price Performance
In the past year, this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company’s shares have gained 30.2% compared with the industry’s 20.3% growth.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
However, softness across Safety & Productivity, Discrete Automation and Test & Measurement businesses is concerning for Emerson. The Safety & Productivity business is witnessing weakness owing to tepid demand for its products across all geographies. Softness across Asia, the Middle East & Africa and Europe regions is ailing the Discrete Automation business. Weakness in the Europe region is adversely affecting the Test & Measurement business’ sales.
Emerson has considerable exposure to regions outside the United States. Its significant international presence exposes it to political and economic disruptions, all of which can directly affect its profits. Also, the company is exposed to headwinds arising from unfavorable movements in foreign currencies.
Stocks to Consider
Some better-ranked companies are discussed below.
Flowserve Corporation FLS currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
FLS delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 5.5%. In the past 60 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for Flowserve’s 2025 earnings has increased 5.6%.
AZZ Inc. AZZ presently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). The company delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 8.1%.
In the past 60 days, the consensus estimate for AZZ’s fiscal 2026 earnings has increased 4.9%.
DNOW Inc. DNOW presently carries a Zacks Rank of 2. DNOW delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 44.1%.
In the past 60 days, the consensus estimate for DNOW’s 2025 earnings has increased 9.2%.
Higher. Faster. Sooner. Buy These Stocks Now
A small number of stocks are primed for a breakout, and you have a chance to get in before they take off.
At any given time, there are only 220 Zacks Rank #1 Strong Buys. On average, this list more than doubles the S&P 500. We’ve combed through the latest Strong Buys and selected 7 compelling companies likely to jump sooner and climb higher than any other stock you could buy this month.
You'll learn everything you need to know about these exciting trades in our brand-new Special Report, 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days.
Download the report free now >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
DNOW Inc. (DNOW) : Free Stock Analysis Report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Emerson Gains From Business Strength Amid Persisting Headwinds

Cintas Corporation CTAS reported fourth-quarter fiscal 2025 (ended May 31, 2025) earnings of $1.09 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.07. The bottom line rose 9% year over year despite an increase in operating costs.
Total revenues of $2.67 billion outperformed the consensus estimate of $2.63 billion. The top line rose 8% year over year, driven by higher segmental revenues. Organic sales were up 9% year over year. (Find the latest EPS estimates and surprises on Zacks Earnings Calendar.)
In fiscal 2025, CTAS reported net revenues of $10.34 billion, which increased 7.7% year over year. The company’s adjusted earnings were $4.40 per share, up 16.1% year over year.
Cintas’ Segmental Results
The company has two reportable segments, Uniform Rental and Facility Services and First Aid and Safety Services. Other businesses like Uniform Direct Sale and Fire Protection Services are included in All Other. Quarterly sales data is briefly discussed below.
Revenues from the Uniform Rental and Facility Services segment (representing 76.1% of the quarter’s net sales) totaled $2.03 billion, up 6.3% year over year. Our estimate for segmental revenues was $2.02 billion.
Revenues from the First Aid and Safety Services segment (representing 12.2% of the quarter’s net sales) totaled $324.4 million, up 16.8% year over year. Our estimate for segmental revenues was $313.1 million.
Revenues from All Other business (representing 11.7% of the quarter’s net sales) totaled $312.6 million, up 10.8% year over year. Our estimate for segmental revenues was $289 million.
Cintas Corporation Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
CTAS’ Margin Profile
Cintas’ cost of sales (comprising costs related to uniform rental and facility services and others) increased 6.9% year over year to $1.34 billion. It represented 50.3% of net sales. Gross profit increased 9.1% to $1.33 billion. The gross margin was 49.7% compared with 49.2% in the year-ago period. Our estimate for the gross margin was pegged at 49.9%.
Selling and administrative expenses totaled $728.5 million, reflecting a 9.1% increase from the year-ago figure. It represented 27.3% of net sales. Operating income increased 9.1% year over year to $597.5 million. The operating margin was 22.4% compared with 22.2% in the year-ago quarter. Interest expenses decreased 0.1% to $24.1 million.
Cintas’ Balance Sheet & Cash Flow
Exiting fiscal 2025, Cintas had cash and cash equivalents of $264 million compared with $342 million at the end of the year-ago fiscal year. Long-term debt was about $2.42 billion compared with $2.03 billion at the end of the year-ago fiscal year.
In fiscal 2025, CTAS generated net cash of $2.17 billion from operating activities, up 4.7% from the year-ago period. Capital expenditures in the same period totaled $408.9 million, down 0.1% year over year. Free cash flow increased 5.9% year over year to $1.76 billion.
The company repurchased shares worth $934.8 million compared with $700 million in the year-ago period. Dividend payments totaled $611.6 million, up 15.2% year over year.
CTAS’ FY26 Guidance
For fiscal 2026, Cintas expects revenues to be in the range of $11-$11.15 billion. The midpoint of the guided range — $11.08 billion — lies above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $11.02 billion. Earnings per share are estimated to be in the range of $4.71-$4.85. The midpoint of the guided range — $4.78 — lies below the consensus estimate of $4.87.
Cintas predicts net interest expenses of approximately $98 million. This compares with interest expenses of $101.1 million recorded in fiscal 2025. The effective tax rate is expected to be 20%.
CTAS’ Zacks Rank & Other Stocks to Consider
Cintas currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Some other top-ranked companies are discussed below.
AZZ Inc. AZZ currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
AZZ delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 8.1%. In the past 60 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for AZZ’s fiscal 2026 earnings has increased 4.9%.
Broadwind, Inc. BWEN presently sports a Zacks Rank of 1. The company delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 61.1%.
In the past 60 days, the consensus estimate for BWEN’s 2025 earnings has remained steady.
Alarm.com Holdings, Inc. ALRM presently carries a Zacks Rank of 2. It has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 15.7%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ALRM’s 2025 earnings has remained steady in the past 60 days.
Zacks' Research Chief Picks Stock Most Likely to "At Least Double"
Our experts have revealed their Top 5 recommendations with money-doubling potential – and Director of Research Sheraz Mian believes one is superior to the others. Of course, all our picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier recommendations like Hims & Hers Health, which shot up +209%.
See Our Top Stock to Double (Plus 4 Runners Up) >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Cintas' Q4 Earnings Surpass Estimates, Revenues Increase Y/Y

Tesla, Inc.’s TSLA shares gained 4.7% after announcing its annual shareholder meeting will be in November.
Shares of Conagra Brands, Inc. CAG lost 4.4% after reporting fourth-quarter fiscal 2025 earnings of 56 cents per share, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 59 cents.
Shares of DTE Energy Company DTE inched up 1.7% on utilities stocks continuing to rise.
Shares of AZZ Inc. AZZ jumped 5.3% after reporting first-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings of $1.78 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.58.
#1 Semiconductor Stock to Buy (Not NVDA)
The incredible demand for data is fueling the market's next digital gold rush. As data centers continue to be built and constantly upgraded, the companies that provide the hardware for these behemoths will become the NVIDIAs of tomorrow.
One under-the-radar chipmaker is uniquely positioned to take advantage of the next growth stage of this market. It specializes in semiconductor products that titans like NVIDIA don't build. It's just beginning to enter the spotlight, which is exactly where you want to be.
See This Stock Now for Free >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Company News for Jul 11, 2025

Looking at options trading activity among components of the Russell 3000 index, there is noteworthy activity today in Rapid7 Inc (Symbol: RPD), where a total volume of 8,303 contracts has been traded thus far today, a contract volume which is representative of approximately 830,300 underlying shares (given that every 1 contract represents 100 underlying shares). That number works out to 95.2% of RPD's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 871,855 shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $30 strike call option expiring August 15, 2025, with 5,400 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 540,000 underlying shares of RPD. Below is a chart showing RPD's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $30 strike highlighted in orange:
AZZ Inc (Symbol: AZZ) options are showing a volume of 2,350 contracts thus far today. That number of contracts represents approximately 235,000 underlying shares, working out to a sizeable 94.6% of AZZ's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 248,415 shares. Especially high volume was seen for the $105 strike call option expiring July 18, 2025, with 261 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 26,100 underlying shares of AZZ. Below is a chart showing AZZ's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $105 strike highlighted in orange:
And Methode Electronics Inc (Symbol: MEI) options are showing a volume of 2,939 contracts thus far today. That number of contracts represents approximately 293,900 underlying shares, working out to a sizeable 88.9% of MEI's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 330,745 shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $7.50 strike put option expiring July 18, 2025, with 1,729 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 172,900 underlying shares of MEI. Below is a chart showing MEI's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $7.50 strike highlighted in orange:
For the various different available expirations for RPD options, AZZ options, or MEI options, visit StockOptionsChannel.com.
GLDX Options Chain
NHTC Average Annual Return
ETFs Holding PZE
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Notable Thursday Option Activity: RPD, AZZ, MEI

(RTTNews) - AZZ Inc. (AZZ), a hot-dip galvanizing and coil coating solutions provider, Tuesday announced an agreement to acquire privately held Canton Galvanizing, LLC in Canton, Ohio. Financial aspects of the deal were not revealed.
The acquisition is expected to be accretive to earnings within the first year of operation.
AZZ plans to operate the new facility under the name AZZ Galvanizing - Canton East LLC and will offer AZZ's ability to customers in the Midwest region of the United States. The new galvanizing facility will be integrated into AZZ's existing network of hot-dip galvanizing plants. With the acquisition, total galvanizing network will increase to 42 sites in North America.
Bryan Stovall, President and Chief Operating Officer - Metal Coatings said the strategic acquisition increases its metal coating capacity and further strengthens network of metal coatings facilities.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

AZZ To Acquire Canton Galvanizing, Deal Value Not Revealed

Nordson Corporation NDSN is scheduled to release second-quarter fiscal 2025 (ended April 30) results on May 28, after market close.
The company has an impressive earnings surprise history, with the average beat being 2.9%. In the last reported quarter, its earnings of $2.06 per share missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.08 by 1%. (Find the latest EPS estimates and surprises on Zacks Earnings Calendar.)
Let’s see how things have shaped up for Nordson this earnings season.
Factors to Note Ahead of NDSN’s Q2 Results
The Industrial Precision Solutions segment’s results are expected to put up a weak show due to lower demand for polymer processing and industrial coatings product lines. The consensus mark for the segment’s revenues is pegged at $323 million, indicating a 12% decrease from the year-ago figure.
Decreased demand for medical interventional product lines due to continued destocking is likely to have weighed on the Medical and Fluid Solutions segment in the to-be-reported quarter. Softness in electronics processing and x-ray product lines is likely to have hurt the Advanced Technology Solutions segment’s sales.
The escalating cost of sales poses a threat to NDSN’s bottom line. High input costs are expected to have pushed up the cost of sales, which is likely to have reflected in its margins.
The company’s international presence exposes it to the risk of adverse currency fluctuations, which are likely to have hurt its performance.
However, the acquisition of Atrion Corporation, which expanded Nordson’s medical offerings in the infusion and cardiovascular therapies market, is expected to support its results. In August 2023, NDSN acquired ARAG Group and its subsidiaries, which boosted its core capabilities in precision dispensing technology and helped it expand into the rapidly growing precision agriculture end-market. This acquisition is expected to aid results.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s fiscal second-quarter revenues is pegged at $673.6 million, indicating an increase of 3.5% from the year-ago quarter’s figure. The consensus estimate for adjusted earnings is pegged at $2.36 per share, indicating a 0.9% decrease from the year-ago quarter’s number.
Nordson Corporation Price and EPS Surprise
Nordson Corporation price-eps-surprise | Nordson Corporation Quote
Earnings Whispers for NDSN
Our proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for NDSN this time. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here, as elaborated below.
Earnings ESP: NDSN has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%, as both the Most Accurate Estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate are pegged at $2.36. You can uncover the best stocks before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: NDSN presently carries a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Performance of Other Companies
AZZ Inc. AZZ came out with quarterly earnings of $0.98 per share in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 (ended March 2025), beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.95. This compares with earnings of $0.93 per share in the prior year.
AZZ reported revenues of $351.88 million, missing the consensus estimate by 3.77%. This compares with the year-ago revenues of $366.5 million.
Valmont Industries VMI reported revenues of $969.31 million in the first quarter of 2025, declining 0.9% on a year-over-year basis. Earnings per share were $4.32 for the same period compared with $4.32 a year ago.
The reported revenues compare with the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $975.6 million. The company delivered an earnings surprise of 1.89%, with the consensus estimate pegged at $4.24 per share.
Pentair plc PNR came out with quarterly earnings of $1.11 per share in the first quarter of 2025, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.01. This compares with earnings of $0.94 per share in the previous year.
Pentair posted revenues of $1.01 billion for the quarter, surpassing the consensus estimate by 2.68%. This compares with year-ago revenues of $1.02 billion.
7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days
Just released: Experts distill 7 elite stocks from the current list of 220 Zacks Rank #1 Strong Buys. They deem these tickers "Most Likely for Early Price Pops."
Since 1988, the full list has beaten the market more than 2X over with an average gain of +23.0% per year. So be sure to give these hand picked 7 your immediate attention.
See them now >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
Valmont Industries, Inc. (VMI) : Free Stock Analysis Report
AZZ Inc. (AZZ) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Nordson Corporation (NDSN) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Pentair plc (PNR) : Free Stock Analysis Report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).
Zacks Investment Research
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Nordson Gears Up to Report Q2 Earnings: What's in the Offing?

Kennametal Inc. KMT reported third-quarter fiscal 2025 (ended March 31, 2025) adjusted earnings of 47 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 26 cents. The bottom line increased 56.7% from the year-ago figure. (Find the latest EPS estimates and surprises on Zacks Earnings Calendar.)
KMT’s Revenue Details
Kennametal’s revenues were $486.4 million, which decreased 5.7% from the year-ago quarter’s figure. Organic sales declined 3% year over year. Business days did not have any impact in the quarter.
KMT’s revenues missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $490 million.
On a geographical basis, revenues from American operations decreased 3% year over year to $240.4 million, whereas sales from the Europe, the Middle East and Africa region were $151.3 million, down 4% from the year-ago quarter. Sales from the Asia Pacific belt decreased 1% to $94.8 million.
Kennametal reports results under two business segments, namely Metal Cutting and Infrastructure. Its segmental performance for the fiscal third quarter is briefly discussed below:
The Metal Cutting segment’s revenues of $304.3 million decreased 7% year over year. Organic revenues declined 4%. Foreign currency had a negative impact of 3%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Metal Cutting’s revenues was pegged at $307 million.
The Infrastructure segment’s revenues totaled $182.1 million, down 4% year over year. Organic revenues decreased 2% and currency exchange had a negative impact of 2% year over year. The consensus estimate for Infrastructure’s revenues was pegged at $184 million.
Kennametal Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Kennametal Inc. price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | Kennametal Inc. Quote
KMT’s Margin Profile
Kennametal’s cost of goods sold decreased 9% year over year to $330 million. The gross profit increased 2% year over year to $156.4 million, while the margin increased 250 basis points (bps) to 32.2%. Operating expenses were $109.3 million, up 1.8% year over year.
Operating income increased 25.7% year over year to $44.1 million. Operating margin increased 230 bps year over year to 9.1%. Lower raw material costs aided the results.
Interest expenses were $6.2 million, down 8.3% from the year-ago quarter’s figure. The adjusted effective tax rate was 22.8%.
Kennametal’s Balance Sheet and Cash Flow
While exiting the fiscal third quarter, Kennametal’s cash and cash equivalents were $97.5 million compared with $128 million in fourth-quarter fiscal 2024. Long-term debt was $596.6 million compared with the $596 million in the year-ago quarter.
In the first nine months of fiscal 2025, Kennametal generated net cash of $129.7 million in operating activities compared with $163.5 million in the previous fiscal year’s quarter. Capital invested in purchasing property, plant and equipment (net of the amount received on disposals) was $67.5 million, down 19.9% from $84.2 million in the prior fiscal year. Free operating cash flow was $63 million compared with $84 million in the previous fiscal year’s period.
KMT paid a dividend of $46.6 million and repurchased shares worth $55.1 million.
KMT’s Dividend Update
Kennametal announced that its board of directors approved a quarterly cash dividend of 20 cents per share to its shareholders of record as of May 13, 2025. The disbursement will be made on May 27.
Kennametal’s Guidance
KMT has updated its fiscal 2025 (ending June 2025) outlook. The company now anticipates sales to be in the range of $1.97-$1.99 billion compared with $1.95-$2.0 billion expected earlier. Adjusted earnings per share are anticipated to be in the range of $1.30- $1.45 compared with $1.05-$1.30 expected earlier. Free operating cash flow is expected to be more than 125% of net income (adjusted).
Capital spending is expected to be approximately $90 million.
KMT’s Zacks Rank
The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Performance of Other Companies
AZZ Inc. AZZ came out with quarterly earnings of $0.98 per share in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 (ended March 2025), beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.95. This compares with earnings of $0.93 per share a year ago.
AZZ reported revenues of $351.88 million, missing the consensus estimate by 3.77%. This compares with year-ago revenues of $366.5 million.
Valmont Industries VMI reported revenues of $969.31 million in the first quarter of 2025, declining 0.9% on a year-over-year basis. Earnings per share of $4.32 for the same period compare with $4.32 a year ago.
The reported revenues compare with the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $975.6 million. The company delivered an earnings surprise of 1.89%, with the consensus estimate being $4.24 per share.
Pentair plc PNR came out with quarterly earnings of $1.11 per share in the first quarter of 2025, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.01. This compares with earnings of $0.94 per share a year ago.
Pentair posted revenues of $1.01 billion for the quarter, surpassing the consensus estimate by 2.68%. This compares with year-ago revenues of $1.02 billion.
7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days
Just released: Experts distill 7 elite stocks from the current list of 220 Zacks Rank #1 Strong Buys. They deem these tickers "Most Likely for Early Price Pops."
Since 1988, the full list has beaten the market more than 2X over with an average gain of +23.9% per year. So be sure to give these hand picked 7 your immediate attention.
See them now >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
Valmont Industries, Inc. (VMI) : Free Stock Analysis Report
AZZ Inc. (AZZ) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Pentair plc (PNR) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Kennametal Inc. (KMT) : Free Stock Analysis Report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).
Zacks Investment Research
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Kennametal's Q3 Earnings Beat Estimates, Revenues Decline Y/Y

Emerson Electric Co. EMR reported second-quarter fiscal 2025 (ended March 31, 2025) adjusted earnings of $1.48 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.42. The bottom line increased 9% year over year.
Emerson’s net sales of $4.43 billion beat the consensus estimate of $4.38 billion. The top line increased 1% year over year, driven by the solid performance of Software and Control segment. The company’s underlying sales were up 2% year over year. (Find the latest EPS estimates and surprises on Zacks Earnings Calendar.)
How EMR Business Segments Performed
Effective from the first quarter of fiscal 2023, the company started reporting under two segments, namely Intelligent Devices and Software & Control.
The Intelligent Devices segment’s net sales were $3.03 billion, down 1% year over year. Our estimate was $3.06 billion. The segment consists of four subgroups, namely Final Control, Measurement & Analytical, Discrete Automation and Safety & Productivity.
Final Control’s sales increased 2% year over year to $1.07 billion. Measurement & Analytical generated sales of $1 billion, down 1% year over year. Discrete Automation’s sales totaled $615 million, reflecting a decline of 3% on a year-over-year basis. Safety & Productivity’s sales decreased 7% year over year to $339 million.
The Software and Control Automation Solutions segment generated net sales of $1.42 billion, up 7% year over year. Our estimate was $1.34 billion. The segment consists of two subgroups, namely Control Systems & Software and Test & Measurement.
Control Systems & Software reported sales of $1.06 billion, reflecting an increase of 10% year over year. Test & Measurement sales were $359 million, declining 2% year over year.
Emerson Electric Co. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Emerson Electric Co. price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | Emerson Electric Co. Quote
Emerson’s Margin Details
The cost of sales decreased 1.5% year over year to $2.06 billion. The pretax earnings margin was 14.2% compared with 16.3% in the year-ago period. Adjusted EBITA margin was 25.8% compared with 24.5% in the year-earlier quarter. Selling, general and administrative expenses declined 1% year over year to $1.28 billion.
EMR’s Balance Sheet & Cash Flow
Exiting the fiscal second quarter, Emerson had cash and cash equivalents of $1.89 billion compared with $3.6 billion at the end of fiscal 2024 (ended September 2024). Long-term debt was $8.18 billion compared with $7.2 billion at the end of fiscal 2024.
In the same period, the company generated net cash of $1.02 billion from operating activities, up 12.1% year over year. Capital expenditure was $170 million, up from $159 million in the year-ago period. Emerson paid out dividends of $598 million and repurchased shares worth $1.12 billion in the same period.
Emerson’s Q3 Fiscal 2025 Outlook
For the third quarter of fiscal 2025 (ending June 2025), Emerson anticipates year-over-year net sales growth to be in the band of 4.5–5.5% and underlying sales growth to be in the range of 3.5-4.5%.
EMR anticipates adjusted earnings per share to be in the range of $1.48–$1.52.
EMR’s FY25 Outlook
Emerson currently anticipates net sales growth of approximately 4% from the year-earlier level compared with 1.5-3.5% expected earlier. Underlying sales are expected to rise approximately 4%.
EMR continues to project earnings per share to be in the range of $4.05-$4.20 compared with $4.42-$4.62 expected earlier. Adjusted earnings per share are estimated to be in the range of $5.90 - $6.05 compared with $5.85-$6.05 estimated earlier. The company expects operating cash flow to be in the band of $3.5-$3.6 billion. Free cash flow is estimated to be in the range of $3.1-$3.2 billion.
EMR’s Zacks Rank
The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Performance of Other Companies
AZZ Inc. AZZ came out with quarterly earnings of $0.98 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.95. This compares with earnings of $0.93 per share a year ago.
AZZ reported revenues of $351.88 million, missing the consensus estimate by 3.77%. This compares with year-ago revenues of $366.5 million.
Valmont Industries VMI reported revenues of $969.31 million in the second quarter of 2025, declining 0.9% on a year-over-year basis. Earnings per share of $4.32 for the same period compare with $4.32 a year ago.
The reported revenues compare with the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $975.6 million. The company delivered an earnings surprise of 1.89%, with the consensus estimate being $4.24 per share.
Pentair plc PNR came out with quarterly earnings of $1.11 per share in the second quarter of 2025, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.01. This compares with earnings of $0.94 per share a year ago.
Pentair posted revenues of $1.01 billion for the quarter, surpassing the consensus estimate by 2.68%. This compares with year-ago revenues of $1.02 billion.
5 Stocks Set to Double
Each was handpicked by a Zacks expert as the #1 favorite stock to gain +100% or more in 2024. While not all picks can be winners, previous recommendations have soared +143.0%, +175.9%, +498.3% and +673.0%.
Most of the stocks in this report are flying under Wall Street radar, which provides a great opportunity to get in on the ground floor.
Today, See These 5 Potential Home Runs >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
Emerson Electric Co. (EMR) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Valmont Industries, Inc. (VMI) : Free Stock Analysis Report
AZZ Inc. (AZZ) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Pentair plc (PNR) : Free Stock Analysis Report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).
Zacks Investment Research
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Emerson Q2 Earnings Top Estimates, Software and Control Sales Rise

Powell Industries, Inc.’s POWL second-quarter fiscal 2025 (ended March 2025) adjusted earnings of $3.81 per share surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.35. The bottom line increased 38.6% year over year. Results benefited primarily from higher revenues generated in the quarter.
(Find the latest EPS estimates and surprises on Zacks Earnings Calendar.)
Powell’s total revenues of $278.6 million missed the consensus estimate of $277 million. The top line increased 9.2% year over year. The year-over-year increase was primarily driven by strength across electric utility and commercial & other industrial sectors.
Inside the Headlines for Powell Industries
In the fiscal second quarter, it generated revenues of $70.3 million from the electric utility sector, up 48% year over year. Revenues from the petrochemical sector amounted to $43.7 million, down 13% year over year. The commercial & other industrial sector’s revenues increased 16% to $40.4 million.
In the fiscal second quarter, new orders totaled $249 million compared with $269 million in the year-ago quarter. The increase was driven by robust order activity in the oil & gas and commercial and other industrial sectors. Exiting the quarter, its backlog totaled $1.3 billion, relatively flat on a sequential as well as year-over-year basis.
Powell Industries, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Powell Industries, Inc. price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | Powell Industries, Inc. Quote
Margin Profile of POWL
In the fiscal second quarter, Powell Industries’ cost of sales increased 1.5% year over year to $195.2 million. Gross profit increased 33% year over year to $83.4 million while the margin increased 530 basis points (bps) to 29.9%. Selling, general and administrative expenses were $21.8 million, up 3.9% year over year.
Operating income increased 49.2% year over year to $58.9 million. The operating margin was 21.1%, up 560 bps year over year.
Powell Industries’ Balance Sheet and Cash Flow
Exiting the second quarter of fiscal 2025, Powell Industries had cash equivalents and short-term investments of $389.3 million compared with $358.4 million at the end of fiscal 2024 (ended September 2024). Current liabilities were $404.8 million compared with $428 million at the end of fiscal 2024.
Stockholders’ equity totaled $541.4 million. In the first six months of fiscal 2025, capital expenditure totaled $6.3 million, up 192.9% year over year.
In the same period, the company used $6.4 million for distributing dividends, up 1.8% on a year-over-year basis.
POWL's Fiscal 2025 Guidance
Given Powell Industries’ robust backlog, solid liquidity and a strong balance sheet, it looks forward to witnessing strong revenues and earnings in fiscal 2025 (ending September 2025).
POWL’s Zacks Rank
The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Performance of Other Companies
AZZ Inc. AZZ came out with quarterly earnings of $0.98 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.95. This compares with earnings of $0.93 per share a year ago.
AZZ reported revenues of $351.88 million, missing the consensus estimate by 3.77%. This compares with year-ago revenues of $366.5 million.
Valmont Industries VMI reported revenues of $969.31 million in the second quarter of 2025, declining 0.9% on a year-over-year basis. Earnings per share of $4.32 for the same period compare with $4.32 a year ago.
The reported revenues compare with the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $975.6 million. The company delivered an earnings surprise of 1.89%, with the consensus estimate being $4.24 per share.
Pentair plc PNR came out with quarterly earnings of $1.11 per share in the second quarter of 2025, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.01. This compares with earnings of $0.94 per share a year ago.
Pentair posted revenues of $1.01 billion for the quarter, surpassing the consensus estimate by 2.68%. This compares with year-ago revenues of $1.02 billion.
5 Stocks Set to Double
Each was handpicked by a Zacks expert as the #1 favorite stock to gain +100% or more in 2024. While not all picks can be winners, previous recommendations have soared +143.0%, +175.9%, +498.3% and +673.0%.
Most of the stocks in this report are flying under Wall Street radar, which provides a great opportunity to get in on the ground floor.
Today, See These 5 Potential Home Runs >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
Valmont Industries, Inc. (VMI) : Free Stock Analysis Report
AZZ Inc. (AZZ) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Pentair plc (PNR) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Powell Industries, Inc. (POWL) : Free Stock Analysis Report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).
Zacks Investment Research
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Powell Industries Q2 Earnings Surpass Estimates, Revenues Increase 9.2%

Johnson Controls International plc JCI is scheduled to release second-quarter fiscal 2025 (ended March 2025) financial numbers on May 7, before market open.
The company’s earnings surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters. The average surprise was 5.1%. In the last reported quarter, its earnings of 64 cents per share beat the consensus estimate of 59 cents by 8.5%.
The consensus estimate for revenues is pegged at $5.64 billion, indicating a decrease of 15.8% from the year-ago quarter’s figure. The consensus estimate for adjusted earnings is pinned at 77 cents per share, indicating a decrease of 1.3% from the year-ago quarter’s figure. (Find the latest EPS estimates and surprises on Zacks Earnings Calendar.)
Key Factors and Estimates to Note Ahead of JCI’s Earnings Release
The Building Solutions North America segment is expected to have benefited from solid demand for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) platforms in data centers and strength in the controls businesses.
The Building Solutions Europe, the Middle East, Africa/Latin America segment is expected to have benefited from strength in the service, controls, fire, security and industrial refrigeration businesses. Our estimate for the segment’s revenues is pegged at $1.1 billion, indicating a 0.5% increase from the year-ago figure.
Solid momentum in the service business is expected to have driven the performance of the Building Solutions Asia Pacific segment. We expect revenues from the segment to decrease 14.3% year over year to $434.8 million.
Growth in applied HVAC, fire & security and Industrial refrigeration businesses is likely to have aided the company’s Global Products segment. We expect the segment’s revenues to increase 8.3% year over year to $531.5 million in the second quarter.
Investments in digital offerings, like the OpenBlue platform that plays an integral part in meeting customer needs, are expected to have driven the company’s revenues.
We expect the company’s total revenues to be $5.64 billion for the fiscal second quarter, indicating an increase of 0.8% year over year.
However, the escalating selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses pose a threat to Johnson Controls’ bottom line. Higher insurance recovery costs are expected to have pushed up the SG&A expenses, which are likely to have impacted its margins in the fiscal second quarter.
JCI has considerable exposure to overseas markets. Given the company’s substantial international operations, foreign currency headwinds are likely to have marred its margins and profitability.
Johnson Controls International plc Price and EPS Surprise
Johnson Controls International plc price-eps-surprise | Johnson Controls International plc Quote
Earnings Whispers
Our proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for JCI this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here, as elaborated below.
Earnings ESP: JCI has an Earnings ESP of 0.00% as both the Most Accurate Estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate are pegged at 77 cents per share. You can uncover the best stocks before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: JCI presently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
Performance of Another Company
AZZ Inc. AZZ came out with quarterly earnings of $0.98 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.95. This compares with earnings of $0.93 per share a year ago.
AZZ reported revenues of $351.88 million, missing the consensus estimate by 3.77%. This compares with year-ago revenues of $366.5 million.
Stocks to Consider
Here are some companies, which according to our model, have the right combination of elements to beat on earnings in this reporting cycle.
Sealed Air Corporation SEE has an Earnings ESP of +0.12% and a Zacks Rank of 3 at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The company is slated to release first-quarter 2025 results on May 6. Illinois Tool’s earnings surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 27.1%.
Trimble Inc. TRMB has an Earnings ESP of +5.44% and a Zacks Rank of 3 at present. The company is scheduled to release first-quarter 2025 results on May 7.
TRMB’s earnings surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the preceding four quarters, the average surprise being 7.8%.
Only $1 to See All Zacks' Buys and Sells
We're not kidding.
Several years ago, we shocked our members by offering them 30-day access to all our picks for the total sum of only $1. No obligation to spend another cent.
Thousands have taken advantage of this opportunity. Thousands did not - they thought there must be a catch. Yes, we do have a reason. We want you to get acquainted with our portfolio services like Surprise Trader, Stocks Under $10, Technology Innovators,and more, that closed 256 positions with double- and triple-digit gains in 2024 alone.
See Stocks Now >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
Sealed Air Corporation (SEE) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Trimble Inc. (TRMB) : Free Stock Analysis Report
AZZ Inc. (AZZ) : Free Stock Analysis Report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).
Zacks Investment Research
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Periodand min./max. price, $	Price change, %		Volatility, %		Volume, $
Periodand min./max. price, $	AZZ	Industry	AZZ	Industry	Volume, $
Yesterday 115.5 - 118.7	-0.22	4.88	20.67	0.94	6.65M
Week 110.5 - 118.7	5.34	2.82	3.90	5.02	54.10M
Month 108.1 - 118.7	5.42	8.31	7.07	10.52	313.09M
3 Months 86.7 - 118.7	24.26	12.79	17.69	19.56	1.17B
6 Months 70.9 - 118.7	32.30	2.12	24.46	31.20	1.83B
Year 70.9 - 118.7	58.72	24.07	34.83	40.24	2.77B
3 years 30.2 - 118.7	178.87	84.53	62.95	105.21	5.03B
5 years 30.2 - 118.7	236.59	94.27	75.28	131.51	6.58B
All time 1.7 - 88.7	2,202.88	141.56	—	—	4.58B

AZZ Inc.

Price and volatility history

Risk ratios