Here’s Why Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. (AXTA) Traded Down in Q2

Core Viewpoint - Artisan Partners' "Artisan Select Equity Fund" underperformed the S&P 500 Index in Q2 2025, with returns of 6.77%, 6.76%, and 6.80% for its Investor, Advisor, and Institutional Classes respectively, compared to the S&P 500's 10.94% return [1] Group 1: Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. Overview - Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. (NYSE:AXTA) is a manufacturer and distributor of coatings systems, with a market capitalization of $6.084 billion [2] - As of September 26, 2025, Axalta's stock closed at $28.09 per share, experiencing a one-month return of -10.14% and a 52-week decline of 22.38% [2] Group 2: Financial Performance and Market Conditions - In Q2 2025, Axalta's net sales totaled $1.3 billion, reflecting a year-over-year decrease of approximately 3% [4] - The company reported a 10% decline in shares, with Q1 earnings deemed satisfactory despite a 2% overall sales decline [3] - The performance coatings division faced challenges due to market weakness, with increased insurance premiums and repair costs impacting consumer behavior [3] - Industrial sales were weak due to sluggish industrial activity, and the mobility business saw a slight revenue decline linked to OEM vehicle production drops [3] Group 3: Investment Perspective - Despite the weak top-line performance, Axalta managed to grow profits through variable cost reductions and effective expense management [3] - Axalta trades at a modest earnings multiple of 11X, compared to the S&P 500 Index's multiple of over 20X, indicating potential undervaluation [3] - The company is not among the top 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds, with 44 hedge fund portfolios holding its stock at the end of Q2, unchanged from the previous quarter [4]