Reasons Why You Should Avoid Betting on IDEX Stock Right Now

Core Insights - IDEX Corporation (IEX) has underperformed in operational performance, particularly in the Fluid & Metering Technologies (FMT) segment, leading to a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) [1] - The stock has declined by 18.3% over the past year, contrasting with the industry's growth of 9.4% [1] Business Weakness - The FMT segment is experiencing softness, particularly in agriculture, energy, water, and semiconductor markets, with organic revenues decreasing by 2% year over year in Q2 2025 [4] - Weakness in the European chemicals market is negatively impacting the chemical businesses within the FMT segment [4] Rising Expenses - Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by 11.4% year over year in Q2 2025, with amortization and professional services spending contributing to this rise [5] - As a percentage of sales, these expenses rose by 90 basis points to 23.5% in the same period [5] - The cost of sales also saw a year-over-year increase of 7.4% in Q2 2025 [5] Forex Woes - IDEX's international operations expose it to risks from adverse currency fluctuations, particularly due to a strengthening U.S. dollar, which may pressure profit margins abroad [6][8]