James Hardie(US:JHX) Globenewswireยท2025-09-12 12:18Core Viewpoint - James Hardie Industries plc is under investigation for potential violations of federal securities laws, following a significant decline in its stock price due to disappointing sales results attributed to temporary inventory loading rather than sustainable customer demand [1][4]. Company Overview - James Hardie is a producer and marketer of high-performance fiber cement and fiber gypsum building solutions, primarily used in external siding for the residential building industry in the United States and Canada [2]. Sales Performance - The company previously claimed that its "fast[]-growing customers" were a key aspect of its competitive positioning, asserting that its North American business results demonstrated inherent strength and momentum in its strategy [3]. - However, it was revealed that North American net sales declined by 12% in fiscal Q1 2026, driven by lower volumes as customers adjusted inventory levels, indicating that previous sales may have been artificially inflated [4]. Stock Market Reaction - Following the earnings call on August 19, 2025, where the sales decline was disclosed, James Hardie's stock price plummeted by $9.79 per share, a decrease of over 34%, from $28.43 to $18.64 [4].