James Hardie(US:JHX) Globenewswire·2025-10-31 18:05Core Viewpoint - A class-action lawsuit has been filed against James Hardie Industries plc, alleging securities fraud related to misleading investors about inventory levels and customer demand in its North American segment [1][2]. Group 1: Lawsuit Details - The lawsuit, titled Laborers' District Council & Contractors' Pension Fund of Ohio v. James Hardie Industries PLC., covers a class period from May 20, 2025, to August 18, 2025, and seeks damages for violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 [2][3]. - The plaintiffs claim that James Hardie's North America Fiber Cement segment, which accounts for approximately 80% of total earnings, was misrepresented by management despite signs of inventory destocking [3][4]. Group 2: Allegations of Misrepresentation - Executives allegedly made false statements around May 20 and 21, 2025, claiming robust customer demand while denying any inventory destocking [4][5]. - The complaint suggests that sales were artificially inflated due to "inventory loading by channel partners," indicating potential fraudulent practices [4][5]. Group 3: Impact of Disclosure - On August 19, 2025, James Hardie disclosed a 12% decline in sales for its North America Fiber Cement division, attributing it to the customer destocking previously denied [5][6]. - Following this disclosure, the company's stock price fell by over 34%, leading to significant losses for investors [6]. Group 4: Investigation and Next Steps - Hagens Berman is investigating the claims and is seeking information from investors who may have suffered losses or have knowledge relevant to the case [7][8]. - The firm is also encouraging whistleblowers with non-public information to come forward, potentially benefiting from the SEC Whistleblower program [9].