PPG Benefits From Cost Actions and Acquisitions, Weak Demand Ails

Core Insights - PPG Industries is navigating challenges from demand weakness, particularly in Europe, while benefiting from cost discipline, acquisitions, and pricing actions [1] Cost Management and Restructuring - PPG is implementing a cost-cutting and restructuring strategy, focusing on regions and end markets with weak business conditions, realizing an additional $20 million in structural cost savings in Q2 2025, and expecting around $60 million in restructuring savings for the full year 2025 [2][9] - A comprehensive cost reduction program is expected to deliver annualized pre-tax savings of approximately $175 million once fully implemented, primarily targeting structural costs in Europe and other global businesses [3][9] Acquisitions and Growth Strategy - The company is pursuing inorganic growth through value-creating acquisitions, with contributions from acquisitions like Tikkurila, Worwag, Cetelon, and Arsonsisi's powder coatings business expected to enhance its top line [4][9] Financial Performance and Shareholder Returns - PPG has a strong track record of returning cash to shareholders, having returned $1.4 billion in 2024 through dividends and share repurchases, including $620 million in dividends and $750 million in share buybacks [5] - The company raised its quarterly dividend by 4% in July 2025, reflecting robust financial performance with operating cash flow reaching around $1.4 billion in 2024 [5] Market Challenges - PPG faces challenges from soft global industrial production, impacting demand in the Industrial Coatings segment, with lower automotive OEM build rates and weak consumer confidence in Europe contributing to reduced volumes and sales [6][8] - Overall organic growth is expected to be limited due to these factors, with industrial coatings demand anticipated to remain under pressure in the third quarter [7][9] Earnings Guidance - PPG maintained its full-year 2025 adjusted earnings per share guidance of $7.75 to $8.05, supported by continued share gains and internal improvement initiatives while considering current global economic conditions [9]