Core Viewpoint - Analysts project that Masco (MAS) will report quarterly earnings of $1.08 per share, reflecting a 10% decline year over year, with revenues expected to reach $2 billion, down 4.1% from the same quarter last year [1]. Earnings Estimates - The consensus EPS estimate has been revised upward by 3.4% in the past 30 days, indicating a reassessment by covering analysts [2]. - Changes in earnings estimates are crucial for predicting investor reactions, as empirical research shows a strong correlation between earnings estimate revisions and short-term stock price performance [3]. Key Metrics - Analysts estimate 'Net Sales- Plumbing Products' to be $1.26 billion, representing a 0.5% increase year over year [5]. - The consensus for 'Net Sales- Decorative Architectural Products' is $744.34 million, indicating an 11.2% decline year over year [5]. - Expected 'Operating profit, as adjusted- Plumbing Products' is projected at $225.09 million, down from $249.00 million in the same quarter last year [6]. - Analysts forecast 'Operating profit, as adjusted- Decorative Architectural Products' at $145.41 million, compared to $174.00 million in the previous year [6]. - The projected 'Operating profit, as reported- Decorative Architectural Products' is $140.29 million, down from $174.00 million year over year [7]. - 'Operating profit, as reported- Plumbing Products' is expected to be $223.34 million, compared to $247.00 million in the same quarter last year [7]. Stock Performance - Over the past month, Masco shares have returned -0.7%, while the Zacks S&P 500 composite has changed by +3.4% [7]. - Masco holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), suggesting its performance will likely align with the overall market in the upcoming period [7].

Core Insights - Behr Paint Company has announced Hidden Gem (N430-6A) as its 2026 Colour of the Year, described as a smoky jade that balances grounding and energizing qualities [1][2] - The colour reflects a growing consumer desire for unconventional colours that evoke wonder in everyday spaces, with 78% of Canadians believing that paint colours can impact confidence [2][9] Product and Market Positioning - Hidden Gem is part of the BEHR® 2026 Colour Trends Palette, which includes a variety of trend-forward colours emphasizing warmth, comfort, and playfulness [4] - The palette features grounding earth tones, deep jewel tones, and relaxed pastels, catering to diverse styles from traditional to modern [4] Consumer Engagement and Promotions - Behr Paint is running a promotional contest offering a chance to win $50,000 USD for customers who purchase any BEHR® product and follow the brand on social media [5] - The company emphasizes the versatility of Hidden Gem, suitable for various applications from residential to commercial spaces [3][6] Company Background - Founded in 1947, Behr Paint Company is a leading manufacturer of paints and related products in North America, known for its commitment to quality and innovation [8][10] - The company operates under the BEHR®, KILZ®, and WHIZZ® brands, serving both DIYers and professional contractors [8]

Core Insights - Behr Paint Company has announced "Hidden Gem" (N430-6A) as the 2026 Color of the Year, described as a smoky jade that balances grounding and energizing qualities [1][2] - The color reflects a growing consumer desire for unconventional colors that evoke a sense of wonder in everyday spaces, with 82% of Americans believing that paint colors can impact confidence [2][9] Company Overview - Behr Paint Company is one of the largest manufacturers of architectural paints and stains in the U.S. and Canada, offering a wide range of products for both professionals and DIY users [10] - The company is a subsidiary of Masco Corporation, listed on NYSE under the ticker MAS [10] Product Offering - "Hidden Gem" is part of the BEHR® 2026 Color Trends Palette, which includes a variety of colors that emphasize warmth, comfort, and playfulness, featuring earth tones, jewel tones, and pastels [4] - BEHR® products, including the 2026 Color of the Year, are available in several lines such as BEHR DYNASTY®, BEHR MARQUEE®, BEHR ULTRA®, and BEHR PREMIUM PLUS®, sold at The Home Depot [6] Marketing and Consumer Engagement - To promote the 2026 Color of the Year, Behr Paint is running a sweepstakes offering a chance to win $50,000 for customers who purchase any BEHR® product [5] - Research indicates that more than half of Americans find a room painted with Hidden Gem captivating (58%), and two-thirds believe it would create a unique and peaceful environment [9]

Core Viewpoint - Masco Corporation is expected to report its second-quarter 2025 results on July 31, with anticipated declines in both adjusted earnings and net sales compared to the previous year, influenced by various segment performances and external cost pressures [1][2][7]. Financial Performance - In the last reported quarter, Masco's adjusted earnings and net sales missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 5.4% and 1.9%, respectively, with year-over-year declines of 6.5% and 6% [1]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for adjusted EPS has increased to $1.08 from $1.07 over the past 30 days, indicating a 10% decline from the year-ago EPS of $1.20. The consensus estimate for net sales is pegged at $2 billion, reflecting a 4.1% decline from the prior-year quarter's figure of $2.09 billion [2]. Sales Trends - The top line is expected to decline year over year due to reduced contributions from the Decorative Architectural Products segment, which accounted for 34.3% of total net sales in Q1 2025, impacted by lower sales volume and the divestiture of the Kichler business [3]. - The Plumbing Products segment, which accounted for 65.8% of total net sales in Q1 2025, is anticipated to support the top line with higher net selling prices, despite an unfavorable sales mix [4]. Segment Performance - The Plumbing Products segment's net sales are expected to increase by 1.3% year over year to $1.27 billion, while the Decorative Architectural Products segment's net sales are projected to decline by 12% year over year to $737.4 million [5]. - Geographically, net sales in North America are expected to decline by 5.7% year over year to $1.6 billion, while international net sales are anticipated to increase by 2.5% year over year to $406.9 million [6]. Margin Analysis - The company's bottom line is likely to decline year over year due to a higher cost structure and adverse impacts from tariffs, including incremental China tariffs and increased annual expenses from tariffs on steel and aluminum [7]. - Higher commodity costs, increased marketing costs, and an unfavorable sales mix from the Plumbing Products segment are expected to contribute to the decline in the bottom line [9]. Earnings Expectations - Masco has a positive Earnings ESP of +2.61%, indicating a potential earnings beat despite soft volume and rising input costs [8][10]. - The company currently holds a Zacks Rank of 3, suggesting a neutral outlook [11].

Core Viewpoint - The market anticipates a year-over-year decline in Masco's earnings due to lower revenues, with a focus on how actual results will compare to estimates [1][2]. Earnings Expectations - Masco is expected to report quarterly earnings of $1.08 per share, reflecting a 10% decrease year-over-year, with revenues projected at $2 billion, down 4.1% from the previous year [3]. - The consensus EPS estimate has been revised 3.43% higher in the last 30 days, indicating a more optimistic outlook from analysts [4]. Earnings Surprise Prediction - The Zacks Earnings ESP model shows that Masco has a positive Earnings ESP of +2.61%, suggesting a likelihood of beating the consensus EPS estimate [12]. - The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank of 3, indicating a hold position, which combined with the positive Earnings ESP suggests a potential earnings beat [12]. Historical Performance - In the last reported quarter, Masco was expected to post earnings of $0.92 per share but delivered $0.87, resulting in a surprise of -5.43% [13]. - Over the past four quarters, Masco has beaten consensus EPS estimates twice [14]. Industry Context - Armstrong World Industries, a peer in the Zacks Building Products - Miscellaneous industry, is expected to report earnings of $1.75 per share, reflecting an 8% year-over-year increase, with revenues projected at $403.73 million, up 10.6% [18]. - Armstrong's consensus EPS estimate has been revised 0.9% lower in the last 30 days, but a higher Most Accurate Estimate results in an Earnings ESP of +1.71%, suggesting a likely earnings beat [19][20].

Core Insights - Behr Paint Company has announced a collaboration with REMAX Canada to support DIY home improvement and real estate decisions for Canadians [1][2] - The partnership emphasizes the concept of DIYconomics, promoting financially responsible home updates through the use of BEHR paint and resources [2] Company Collaboration - The collaboration leverages the REMAX Media Network to provide content and resources aimed at empowering homeowners [4] - Both brands are recognized as BrandSpark Most Trusted® in their categories, enhancing consumer confidence in their offerings [1] Consumer Insights - A survey by REMAX Canada revealed that 27% of active buyers and sellers consider a freshly painted home important, with 28% willing to paint before listing or purchasing [3] - 20% of Canadians plan to remodel or significantly upgrade their homes, indicating a strong interest in home improvement [3] Marketing Initiatives - A national digital contest will be launched on REMAX.ca, offering a DIY prize pack valued at $2,000 CAD, including BEHR paint and a personal colour consultation [5] - The collaboration aims to provide budget-friendly tips and expert insights to homeowners looking to enhance their spaces [5] Tools and Resources - Behr offers tools like ColourSmart to help consumers visualize and coordinate paint colors in their spaces [4] - Curated colour palettes, including the BEHR Designer Collection, are available to assist consumers in making informed choices [4] Market Trends - A REMAX renovation study found that 56% of Canadians believe minor updates, such as refreshing paint, provide the best return on investment [5] - The collaboration targets cost-conscious Millennials and Gen Z homeowners who are looking to personalize their spaces and boost home value [3]

Core Insights - Behr Paint Company has partnered with Google Cloud to develop an AI-powered tool named ChatHUE™ to assist consumers in selecting paint colors, addressing a significant challenge in home improvement projects [1][2][3] Company Overview - Behr Paint Company, founded in 1947, is a major manufacturer of paints and related products in North America, known for its commitment to quality and innovation [5] - Google Cloud provides a comprehensive suite of AI and cloud services, supporting organizations in their digital transformation efforts [6] Consumer Insights - Over 40% of consumers find color selection to be the most challenging aspect of their painting projects, with a similar percentage indicating that indecision prevents them from starting projects [2] - The partnership aims to simplify the color selection process, transforming it from a daunting task into an engaging experience for consumers [3][4] Technological Innovation - The ChatHUE™ tool leverages Behr's proprietary color data and Google Cloud's AI capabilities, including Gemini and Vertex AI, to offer personalized color recommendations [1][3] - Behr conducted extensive testing and real-world pilots to ensure the effectiveness of the AI tool before its launch [3] Strategic Goals - Behr aims to enhance creativity and provide smart solutions for homeowners through innovative technology, reinforcing its position as a leader in the paint industry [4]

Industry Overview - The Zacks Building Products - Miscellaneous industry is experiencing growth due to increased government infrastructure spending, which is driving demand for construction-related products and services [1] - Key players in the industry, such as United Rentals, Inc., Masco Corporation, Construction Partners, Inc., Hillman Solutions Corp., and Quanex Building Products Corporation, are well-positioned to capitalize on these trends [1] Current Challenges - The industry faces near-term challenges from high mortgage rates, affordability concerns, and inflation-related cost pressures, including tariffs on raw materials like iron, steel, and copper [2] - Despite these challenges, proactive cost management and pricing strategies are helping to mitigate headwinds [2] Industry Description - The industry comprises manufacturers, designers, and distributors of home improvement and building products, including ceiling systems, doors, windows, flooring, and metal products [3] - Companies also provide solutions for rehabilitating aging infrastructure and rent equipment to a diverse customer base [3] Future Trends - Strong global trends in infrastructure modernization and energy transition are expected to benefit industry players [4] - Improving residential construction markets are anticipated to drive growth, with builders cautiously optimistic for 2025 due to a lack of existing inventory [4] Operational Strategies - Industry participants are implementing cost-saving initiatives, including business consolidation and supply chain improvements, to boost profitability [5] - Strategic investments in new products and acquisitions are being pursued to supplement organic growth [5] Tariff Impact - U.S. tariff policies are increasing costs and disrupting supply chains, leading to heightened inflation [6] - Overall construction input prices were reported to be 1.1% higher in June compared to the previous year [6] Market Performance - The Zacks Building Products - Miscellaneous industry has underperformed the S&P 500 Composite and the broader Zacks Construction sector over the past year, losing 8.4% [12] - The industry is currently trading at a forward P/E ratio of 16.7X, lower than the S&P 500's 22.61X and the sector's 18.76X [15] Company Highlights - **Construction Partners**: Positioned for strong growth with a record project backlog of $2.84 billion and significant revenue growth from acquisitions [20][21] - **Quanex**: Benefiting from the acquisition of Tyman, contributing to a 67.3% year-over-year increase in consolidated sales [24][25] - **United Rentals**: Growth driven by strong demand in infrastructure projects and a stable customer sentiment, with a reaffirmed full-year guidance [27][28][29] - **Masco**: Facing a potential $400 million tariff headwind but expects to offset 50%-65% through pricing and cost reduction efforts [31][32] - **Hillman**: Aiming to reduce reliance on Chinese suppliers and maintain sales growth despite macroeconomic challenges [35][36]

Core Viewpoint - Masco's shares have increased by approximately 4% since the last earnings report, but this performance is below that of the S&P 500, raising questions about the sustainability of this trend leading up to the next earnings release [1] Group 1: Earnings Report and Estimates - The consensus estimate for Masco has decreased by 13.51% over the past month, indicating a downward trend in estimates [2] - The overall outlook for Masco suggests a below-average return in the coming months, supported by a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) [4] Group 2: VGM Scores - Masco has received a subpar Growth Score of D, along with the same grade for momentum, indicating weak performance in these areas [3] - The stock also holds a D grade for value, placing it in the bottom 40% of this investment strategy, resulting in an aggregate VGM Score of D [3]

Core Insights - Kornit Digital Ltd. has entered a strategic partnership with MAS Holdings to enhance sustainable fashion production through on-demand digital technologies [1][2] - The collaboration aims to address inefficiencies in the fashion supply chain, focusing on reducing overproduction and waste while improving profitability for brands [3][4] Company Overview - Kornit Digital is a leader in sustainable, on-demand digital fashion and textile production technologies, providing end-to-end solutions including digital printing systems and fulfillment services [6] - MAS Holdings is recognized as the largest apparel technology company in South Asia, known for its collaborations with major brands like Nike and Victoria's Secret [2] Strategic Agreement Benefits - The partnership will enable brands to optimize inventory levels and respond quickly to market demands, thus minimizing waste and maximizing full-price sell-through [3][4] - MAS ACME USA will leverage end-to-end supply chain data diagnostics to enhance manufacturing strategies and increase profits by aligning production with accurate demand forecasts [5][9] Industry Impact - The agreement is positioned as a solution to the urgent need for change in the fashion industry, which is characterized by inefficiencies and a complex supply chain [4] - The collaboration promotes onshore production flexibility, allowing for agile responses to market trends and reducing long lead times associated with traditional supply chains [8][9] Future Outlook - The partnership is expected to transform the fashion industry into a more efficient and responsible production model, ultimately leading to sustainable growth and improved working capital efficiency [8][9]