How Is Nordson's Stock Performance Compared to Other Industrial Stocks?

Company Overview - Nordson Corporation, based in Westlake, Ohio, specializes in manufacturing and marketing products and systems for dispensing, applying, and controlling adhesives, coatings, polymers, and other fluids globally [1] - The company has a market capitalization of $12.7 billion and operates through three segments: Industrial Precision Solutions, Medical and Fluid Solutions, and Advanced Technology Solutions [1][2] Stock Performance - Nordson's stock reached a 52-week high of $266.86 on November 25, 2024, and is currently trading 15.6% below that peak [3] - Over the past three months, the stock has gained 7.5%, aligning with the Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund's (XLI) 7.5% increase during the same period [3] - In the longer term, the stock has gained 7.7% in 2025 but has declined 11.8% over the past 52 weeks, underperforming XLI's 16.1% increase in 2025 and 14.9% gains over the past year [4] Financial Performance - Following the release of Q3 results on August 20, Nordson's stock prices increased by 3% [5] - The company reported solid organic growth, particularly in its advanced technology solutions segment, with a 15% organic sales growth year-over-year [5] - Total sales for the quarter were $741.5 million, reflecting a 12.1% year-over-year increase and surpassing market expectations by 2.8% [5] - Adjusted EPS grew by 13.3% year-over-year to $2.73, exceeding consensus estimates by 3.8% [5] Competitive Position - Compared to its peer Ingersoll Rand Inc., Nordson has outperformed, as Ingersoll Rand experienced a 9.6% decline in 2025 and a 15.5% drop over the past 52 weeks [6] - Among 11 analysts covering Nordson stock, the consensus rating is a "Moderate Buy," with a mean price target of $256.44, indicating a 13.8% upside potential [6]