Core Insights - The American manufacturing industry faced significant challenges in 2025, including increased costs, rising unemployment, and slumping budgets, primarily due to uncertainties in trade policies and taxes [1][2] - Despite these challenges, opportunities are anticipated for 2026, driven by new tax stipulations from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, adjusted trade agreements, and potential interest rate drops [2][4] - The West Monroe report highlights a shift towards digitalization and improved decision-making in the manufacturing sector, with a focus on accurate data management and AI collaboration [3][4] Industry Overview - The manufacturing sector experienced a downturn in 2025, with a Deloitte report indicating a decline in activity and budgets [1] - The West Monroe report noted that 46% of companies reacted quickly to trade or policy shifts, which sometimes led to data inaccuracies [3] - M&A activity decreased in volume but increased in transaction values, indicating a focus on high-quality assets and modernization efforts [4] Company Highlights - Johnson Controls International plc (NYSE:JCI) reported a fiscal Q4 EPS of $0.42 and sales growth of 3% to $6.4 billion, with strong performance in its Systems and Service segments [10] - RTX Corporation (NYSE:RTX) received an Outperform rating from BNP Paribas Exane, with a price target of $210, and is involved in a $1.25 billion deal to supply missiles to Israel [12][13] - RTX has invested $33 million in a new manufacturing site in Arkansas to support missile production, reflecting increased demand amid global tensions [14]