James Hardie(US:JHX) Globenewswireยท2025-10-20 12:36Core Viewpoint - James Hardie Industries plc is under investigation for potential violations of federal securities laws, following revelations about its North American sales performance being driven by 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 and that its North American business results demonstrated inherent strength [3]. - However, it was revealed that North American net sales declined by 12% in fiscal Q1 2026, attributed to customers returning to normal inventory levels, indicating a lack of sustainable demand [4]. Stock Market Reaction - Following the disclosure of declining sales, James Hardie's stock price fell by $9.79 per share, a decrease of over 34%, from $28.43 on August 19, 2025, to $18.64 on August 20, 2025 [4].