James Hardie(US:JHX) Globenewswire·2025-10-10 12:18Core Viewpoint - James Hardie Industries plc is under investigation for potential violations of federal securities laws, following a significant decline in North American sales attributed to temporary inventory loading rather than sustainable customer demand [1][3]. 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 U.S. and Canada [2]. Sales Performance - The company claimed that its "fast[]-growing customers" were a key aspect of its competitive positioning, asserting strong North American business results [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 [4]. Stock Market Reaction - Following the earnings report on August 19, 2025, which disclosed the sales decline and expected continued inventory destocking, James Hardie's stock price fell by $9.79 per share, a decrease of over 34%, from $28.43 to $18.64 [4].