James Hardie(US:JHX) Globenewswire·2025-11-19 21:34Core Viewpoint - James Hardie Industries plc is facing significant legal and financial challenges following a sharp decline in its stock price and allegations of securities fraud related to misleading statements about inventory levels and customer demand in its North American segment [2][8]. Company Developments - The company announced the departure of its CFO, Rachel Wilson, and appointed Ryan Lada as her replacement on November 17, 2025 [1]. - The stock price collapsed by 34% on August 20, 2025, following the disclosure of poor performance in the North America Fiber Cement division [2][8]. Legal Issues - A class-action lawsuit has been filed against James Hardie and certain executives, alleging securities fraud for misleading investors about inventory levels and customer demand during the class period from May 20, 2025, to August 18, 2025 [4][5]. - The lawsuit seeks damages for violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, specifically Sections 10(b) and 20(a) [4]. Financial Performance - The North America Fiber Cement segment, which generates approximately 80% of the company's total earnings, has been at the center of the allegations [5]. - The company reported a 12% decline in sales for this segment, attributing it to inventory destocking that management had previously denied [7]. Market Reaction - Following the disclosure of the sales decline, the market reacted negatively, resulting in a significant drop in the company's stock price [8]. - The plaintiffs argue that the stock price decline and subsequent investor losses were directly linked to the alleged wrongful acts and omissions by the company's management [8].