What's Going On With Whirlpool Shares Today?

Core Viewpoint - Whirlpool Corp reported disappointing second-quarter earnings and significantly lowered its full-year guidance, leading to a sharp decline in its stock price [1][2]. Financial Performance - The company reported earnings per share (EPS) of $1.34, missing the previous estimate of $1.47, and adjusted EBIT of $200 million, which was approximately 8% below forecasts [2]. - Sales in the North American Major Domestic Appliances (MDA) segment dropped by 5% year over year, contributing to the overall underperformance [2]. Guidance and Projections - Whirlpool cut its full-year 2025 ongoing EPS guidance to a range of $6–$8, down from a prior estimate of $10 [3]. - The company now expects flat organic revenue growth for the year, with operating margins projected to remain constrained [3]. Challenges and Risks - Analysts highlighted several challenges, including elevated leverage, softening consumer demand, and limited benefits from U.S. import tariffs [4]. - Despite a domestic manufacturing footprint, foreign competitors are reportedly more willing to sacrifice near-term margins to maintain market share [4]. Dividend and Financial Health - Whirlpool reduced its annual dividend by nearly 50%, from $7 to $3.60, and lowered its free cash flow forecast to $400 million [5]. - The company's leverage is elevated at 5.4x net debt to EBITDA, and its credit rating has been downgraded to high yield [5]. Analyst Reactions - Bank of America downgraded Whirlpool from Neutral to Underperform and lowered its price objective for the shares to $70, citing reduced earnings forecasts and sustained financial risk [5]. - The firm cut its EPS estimates for 2025 and 2026 by 22% and 23%, respectively [5]. Market Reaction - Following the earnings report, Whirlpool shares closed down 13.43% at $84.76 [6].