Core Viewpoint - Sherwin-Williams reported strong Q3 earnings and revenues that surpassed estimates, but there is a recent downward trend in estimates leading up to the next earnings release [2][8]. Financial Performance - Q3 2025 earnings were $3.35 per share, a 5.3% increase from $3.18 in the same quarter last year, with adjusted earnings at $3.59 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.46 [2]. - Revenues for Q3 were approximately $6.36 billion, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 3.2% and exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $6.2 billion [2]. Segmental Review - The Paint Stores Group segment achieved net sales of $3.84 billion, up 5.1% year over year, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.72 billion, driven by higher selling prices and improved profits from operational leverage [3]. - The Consumer Brands Group segment saw a decline in net sales by 2.6% year over year to $770.1 million, although it beat the consensus estimate of $740 million, with soft DIY demand in North America and Latin America being the primary cause [4]. - The Performance Coatings Group reported a 1.7% increase in net sales to approximately $1.75 billion, exceeding the consensus estimate of $1.74 billion, supported by volume growth and acquisitions, despite a challenging sales mix [5]. Cash Flow and Shareholder Returns - In the first nine months of 2025, Sherwin-Williams generated $2.36 billion in net operating cash and returned $2.13 billion to shareholders through dividends and stock repurchases, including 4.5 million shares [6]. Future Outlook - For Q4 and full-year 2025, the company expects net sales to increase by a low to mid-single-digit percentage and a low-single-digit percentage, respectively, with projected net income per share ranging from $10.16 to $10.36 [7]. - The effective tax rate is anticipated to be in the low 20% range for 2025, and the full-year outlook includes the impact of the Suvinil acquisition, which was completed on October 1 [7]. Estimate Trends - Recent estimates for Sherwin-Williams have been trending downward, indicating a shift in market expectations [8][11]. - The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), suggesting an expectation of in-line returns in the coming months [11].

Sherwin-Williams Company Conference Call Summary Company Overview - **Company**: Sherwin-Williams Company (NYSE: SHW) - **Event Date**: November 04, 2025 - **Key Personnel**: - Heidi Petz, President and CEO - Al Mestishan, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) - Ben Mizensal, appointed CFO effective 01/01/2026 - Jim Jay, Senior Vice President, Investor Relations and Communications Key Points and Arguments Leadership Transition - **Appointment of New CFO**: Ben Mizensal has been appointed as the new CFO, effective January 1, 2026, succeeding Al Mestishan who has served for 35 years, including 9 years as CFO [4][5][6] - **Al Mestishan's Contributions**: Al is credited with significant achievements, including the acquisition and integration of Valspar, navigating the pandemic, and managing supply chain crises. Under his leadership, the company's market capitalization more than tripled [7][6] - **Ben Mizensal's Background**: Ben has a 22-year career at Sherwin-Williams, holding various roles that provided him with a deep understanding of the company's operations and culture [5][10] Strategic Focus - **Continuity in Strategy**: Ben emphasized the importance of maintaining a disciplined approach to capital allocation, financial excellence, and shareholder value creation. He aims to ensure a seamless transition while continuing the company's long-term strategy [24][13] - **Financial Rigor and Operational Excellence**: The company intends to uphold the financial discipline established by previous leadership, focusing on operational excellence and strategic growth [24][10] Future Outlook - **Technological Advancements**: Ben highlighted the importance of leveraging technology and data to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency. The company has undergone a financial transformation initiative post-COVID, which has reimagined finance processes [29][32] - **Commitment to Growth**: The leadership team is focused on achieving above-market growth aspirations through modernization and improved business processes [31][32] Additional Important Content - **Transition Preparedness**: The transition has been a deliberate process over the past three years, ensuring that Ben is well-prepared for his new role [19][20] - **Al Mestishan's Retirement**: Al will remain in a transition role until his retirement in March 2026, ensuring continuity during the leadership change [4][6] - **Investor Engagement**: Ben expressed eagerness to engage with investors and stakeholders, building on relationships established over the past two years [13][14] This summary encapsulates the key discussions and strategic directions outlined during the Sherwin-Williams conference call, focusing on leadership changes, strategic priorities, and future growth initiatives.

Core Viewpoint - The Sherwin-Williams Company has appointed Benjamin E. Meisenzahl as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective January 1, 2026, following a deliberate succession process aimed at ensuring continued profitable growth and financial excellence [1][2]. Company Leadership Transition - Benjamin E. Meisenzahl, who has 22 years of experience with Sherwin-Williams, will take over from Allen J. Mistysyn, who is retiring after 35 years with the company [1][2]. - Meisenzahl has held various roles, including Senior Vice President – Finance, where he led key corporate functions and was a business partner to the CEO [1][2]. - The transition is designed to maintain a strong leadership team, with an average of 26 years of experience among senior leaders [2]. Acknowledgment of Previous Leadership - The company expressed gratitude for Allen J. Mistysyn's leadership during challenging times, including significant acquisitions and the global pandemic, noting that the market capitalization more than tripled during his tenure [1][2]. Company Background - Sherwin-Williams, founded in 1866, is a global leader in manufacturing and distributing paint and coatings, with a wide range of well-known brands [4][5]. - The company operates over 5,400 stores and serves various customer segments, including professional, industrial, and retail [5].

Core Viewpoint - Companies that consistently raise dividends can lead to significant wealth accumulation over time, emphasizing the importance of patience and consistency in stock selection [1][2]. Group 1: Dividend Growth Stocks - Dividend growth stocks have historically outperformed other stock types over the long term, making them a valuable addition to a diversified portfolio [2]. - Five blue-chip dividend stocks with a strong track record of consistent dividend growth are highlighted as potential wealth-building investments [2]. Group 2: Microsoft - Microsoft has raised its dividend for 23 consecutive years, showcasing its commitment to returning value to shareholders while investing in innovation [3][4]. - The company has a market capitalization of $3,849 billion and a current price of $517.81, with a dividend yield of 0.01% [5]. Group 3: McDonald's - McDonald's has raised its dividend for 49 consecutive years, benefiting from a global presence with over 44,000 locations [6][7]. - The company generates steady revenue from royalties and fees, positioning it for continued growth amid a rising global population [7]. Group 4: Automatic Data Processing (ADP) - ADP has a 50-year streak of dividend growth, indicating strong management capable of navigating market challenges [8][9]. - The company has a market capitalization of $105 billion and a current price of $260.30, with a dividend yield of 0.02% [9]. Group 5: Sherwin-Williams - Sherwin-Williams has raised its dividend for 46 consecutive years, with a modest payout ratio of 28% of 2025 earnings estimates [10][11]. - The company is positioned to benefit from ongoing demand for paint and coatings, ensuring its relevance in the market [11]. Group 6: Walmart - Walmart has over five decades of uninterrupted annual dividend increases, with a current market capitalization of $807 billion and a price of $101.25 [12][13][14]. - The company maintains a dividend payout ratio below 40% of 2025 earnings estimates, reinforcing its status as a reliable dividend stock [14].

Core Viewpoint - PPG Industries exceeded Wall Street expectations for third-quarter profit, attributed to increased sales and prices in its performance coatings and global architectural coatings segments [1] Group 1: Financial Performance - The company reported higher sales and prices, contributing to a strong performance in the third quarter [1] - PPG Industries' profit surpassed analyst forecasts, indicating robust demand in its key segments [1] Group 2: Market Segments - The performance coatings segment showed significant growth, driven by increased sales [1] - Global architectural coatings also experienced higher sales and pricing, enhancing overall profitability [1]

Core Insights - Sherwin-Williams Company (SHW) reported Q3 2025 earnings of $3.35 per share, a 5.3% increase from $3.18 in the same quarter last year, with adjusted earnings of $3.59 per share, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.46 [1][8] - The company achieved revenues of $6,358.2 million, reflecting a 3.2% year-over-year growth and exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $6,210.8 million [1][8] Segment Performance - The Paint Stores Group segment recorded net sales of $3,836.8 million, up 5.1% year over year, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3,724 million, driven by higher selling prices and improved profit margins [2] - The Consumer Brands Group segment saw a decline in net sales by 2.6% year over year to $770.1 million, although it exceeded the consensus estimate of $740 million, with decreased demand in North America and Latin America partially offset by increased sales in Europe [3] - The Performance Coatings Group experienced a 1.7% year-over-year increase in net sales to approximately $1,750 million, surpassing the consensus estimate of $1,744 million, attributed to volume growth and favorable foreign currency translation [4] Financial Overview - For the first nine months of 2025, Sherwin-Williams generated $2.36 billion in net operating cash and returned $2.13 billion to shareholders through dividends and stock repurchases, with authorization to buy back 30 million shares [5] - The company anticipates low to mid-single-digit growth in net sales for Q4 and low-single-digit growth for the full year 2025, with projected net income per share ranging from $10.16 to $10.36 and adjusted net income per share between $11.25 and $11.45 [6] Stock Performance - Sherwin-Williams shares have declined by 6.2% over the past year, compared to a 7.4% decline in the industry [7]

Core Insights - The company remains confident in its strategy to navigate a challenging demand environment while positioning itself for future growth as market conditions improve [1][5][21] Segment Performance - Sales in the Paint Stores Group increased by a mid-single-digit percentage, driven by a favorable price mix and volume growth, indicating effective growth investments [1][5] - The Protective and Marine segment saw low double-digit growth, reflecting strong performance despite overall market softness [1][5] - Residential repaint sales grew by mid-single digits, continuing a trend of consistent growth since early 2022, even amid declining existing home sales [6][11] - New residential sales increased by low single digits, while property maintenance and DIY sales also saw low single-digit growth [7][10] Financial Performance - Gross margin and gross profit dollars expanded, with SG&A growth moderating to low single digits, aligning with expectations [4][5] - Adjusted EBITDA margin increased by 60 basis points to 21.4%, and adjusted diluted earnings per share grew by 6.5% [4][5] - The company returned $864 million to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends, demonstrating a commitment to shareholder value [4] Strategic Initiatives - The company closed the acquisition of Suvenil, expected to enhance the Consumer Brands Group's portfolio in Latin America and contribute to sales growth [9][41] - The company is focused on channel optimization, closing underperforming stores while expanding its dealer network [10] - A 7% price increase in the Paint Stores Group is set for January 1, aimed at balancing volume growth with necessary price adjustments [18][24] Outlook - The company updated its full-year 2025 sales guidance to reflect a low single-digit percentage increase compared to 2024, factoring in the Suvenil acquisition [14][15] - The demand environment is expected to remain challenging into 2026, with minimal positive catalysts anticipated [16][20] - Raw material costs are projected to rise by low single digits, with healthcare and wage costs expected to increase as well [17][19] Market Dynamics - The company is experiencing a unique competitive environment, allowing it to outperform the market across all segments served [1][5][21] - There is a focus on differentiated solutions that enhance customer productivity and profitability, particularly in a time of inconsistent competitive offerings [2][21] - The company is committed to disciplined pricing actions and efficiency initiatives to counteract cost pressures while pursuing growth opportunities [17][18][19]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated sales increased at the high end of the guided range, with adjusted EBITDA margin expanding by 60 basis points to 21.4% and adjusted diluted EPS growing by 6.5% [4][6] - SG&A growth moderated to low single digits, in line with expectations, driven by control of general and administrative expenses [5][6] - The company returned $864 million to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - **Paint Stores Group**: Sales increased by mid-single digits, with price mix up at the high end of low single digits and volume up low single digits [8] - **Consumer Brands Group**: Sales exceeded expectations, with price mix up low single digits and volume down mid-single digits, affected by softness in North America DIY [10] - **Performance Coatings Group**: Sales were in line with expectations, with volume, acquisitions, and FX all increasing by low single digits, but offset by unfavorable price mix [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company outperformed the market in all segments served, despite a softer demand environment [8] - Residential repaint sales grew by mid-single digits, continuing a trend of growth since early 2022, despite negative existing home sales [8] - Commercial sales were up mid-single digits, even with multifamily completions down double digits [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on growth investments, controlling costs, and leveraging a unique competitive environment [4][7] - The acquisition of Suvinil is expected to enhance the Consumer Brands Group's portfolio and provide profitable growth opportunities [11][48] - The company plans to continue investing in growth initiatives, including opening 80 to 100 North American paint stores for the year [15][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a challenging demand environment is expected to persist into 2026, with minimal positive catalysts currently visible [16][20] - The company is focused on driving customer success and maintaining profitability despite market challenges [20][21] - Management expressed confidence in their strategy and the team's ability to outperform the market [21] Other Important Information - The company temporarily paused matching contributions to its 401(k) plan to preserve jobs and protect the company during a period of uncertainty [13][14] - The company expects to see a modest cost headwind next year due to new headquarters and R&D center investments [19][20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the 7% price increase for Paint Stores Group? - Management explained that the price increase is driven by higher year-over-year costs and the need to balance volume growth with pricing effectiveness [24][25] Question: What mortgage rates are needed to catalyze demand in the Paint Stores Group? - Management indicated that around 6% mortgage rates could drive stronger existing home turnover, which is crucial for demand [32][33] Question: How do you define the efficiency of investment spending? - Management emphasized a disciplined approach to investments, focusing on returns and adjusting spending based on market conditions [38][39] Question: What actions are planned for the Suvinil acquisition? - Management expressed excitement about the acquisition and the potential for synergies, expecting it to contribute positively to sales and profitability [45][48] Question: What is the outlook for the second half of next year? - Management noted that current trends do not indicate a strong recovery, emphasizing a pragmatic approach to forecasting [50][51] Question: Can you discuss the negative operating leverage in Performance Coatings? - Management attributed the negative leverage to unfavorable mix by region and business, but expects improvements in the fourth quarter [78][80] Question: What is the expected pricing capture in 2026? - Management indicated that pricing capture will depend on market dynamics, but they plan to be aggressive in balancing volume growth with price increases [63][64] Question: How much volume hurt gross margin rate this year? - Management noted that supply chain inefficiencies impacted gross margin, but they expect volume growth to drive operating margin expansion [110][111]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated sales increased at the high end of the guided range, with adjusted EBITDA margin expanding by 60 basis points to 21.4% and adjusted diluted EPS growing by 6.5% [3][4] - SG&A growth moderated to the low single-digit percentage level, in line with expectations, driven by control of general and administrative expenses [4][6] - The company returned $864 million to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Paint Stores Group sales increased by a mid-single-digit percentage, with price mix up at the high end of low single digits and volume up low single digits [6][7] - Consumer Brands Group sales exceeded expectations, with price mix up low single digits and volume down mid-single digits, reflecting continued softness in North America DIY [8][9] - Performance Coatings Group sales were in line with expectations, with volume, acquisitions, and FX all increasing by low single digits, but offset by unfavorable price mix [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company outperformed the market in all segments served, with residential repaint sales growing by mid-single digits despite negative existing home sales [6][7] - Commercial sales were up mid-single digits, even as multifamily completions were down double digits [7] - The company opened 23 net new stores in the quarter and 61 year-to-date, ahead of last year's pace [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on differentiated solutions that enhance customer productivity and profitability, particularly in a competitive environment [5][6] - The acquisition of Suvinil is expected to provide profitable growth opportunities and enhance the Consumer Brands Group's portfolio in Latin America [9][40] - The company plans to continue investing in growth initiatives, including new stores and sales representatives, to capture market share [16][17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management indicated that the demand environment is expected to remain soft for an extended period, with minimal positive catalysts currently visible [15][42] - The company anticipates raw material costs to increase by low single digits and healthcare costs to rise by low double digits [16] - Management expressed confidence in their strategy and ability to adapt to market conditions while focusing on customer success [18][19] Other Important Information - The company temporarily paused matching contributions to its 401(k) plan to preserve jobs and protect the company amid prolonged demand uncertainty [11][12] - The company expects to open 80 to 100 North American paint stores for the year and will manage production and inventory closely [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more color on the 7% price increase for Paint Stores Group? - Management explained that the price increase is driven by higher year-over-year costs and the need to balance volume growth with price effectiveness [21][23] Question: What mortgage rates are needed to catalyze demand in the Paint Stores Group? - Management indicated that around 6% mortgage rates could drive stronger existing home turnover, as there is significant pent-up demand [27][28] Question: Can you discuss the investment spending and its efficiency? - Management emphasized a disciplined approach to investments, focusing on returns and adjusting spending based on market conditions [31][32] Question: What are the expected synergies from the Suvinil acquisition? - Management expressed excitement about the acquisition, expecting it to enhance sales and profitability in the Consumer Brands Group [39][40] Question: What is the outlook for pricing capture in 2026? - Management indicated that pricing capture will depend on market dynamics, but they plan to be aggressive in balancing volume growth with price increases [51][52] Question: How is the company addressing negative operating leverage in Performance Coatings? - Management noted that unfavorable mix by region and business impacted margins, but they expect moderation in this dynamic moving forward [60][62]

Core Insights - Sherwin-Williams reported $6.36 billion in revenue for Q3 2025, a 3.2% year-over-year increase, with an EPS of $3.59 compared to $3.37 a year ago, exceeding both revenue and EPS consensus estimates [1][2] Financial Performance - Revenue of $6.36 billion surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $6.21 billion by 2.37% [1] - EPS of $3.59 exceeded the consensus estimate of $3.46 by 3.76% [1] - The stock has returned -2% over the past month, underperforming the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +3.6% change [3] Segment Performance - Paint Stores Group net new stores increased to 23, above the average estimate of 20 [4] - Total number of Paint Stores Group stores reached 4,834, slightly above the average estimate of 4,831 [4] - Net sales for Paint Stores Group were $3.84 billion, exceeding the average estimate of $3.72 billion, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 5.1% [4] - Consumer Brands Group net sales were $770.1 million, below the average estimate of $740.03 million, showing a year-over-year decline of 2.6% [4] - Performance Coatings Group net sales were $1.75 billion, slightly above the estimated $1.74 billion, with a year-over-year increase of 1.7% [4] - Administrative net sales were $1.3 million, below the average estimate of $1.42 million, representing a significant year-over-year decline of 27.8% [4] Profitability Metrics - Segment profit for Paint Stores Group was $954.3 million, exceeding the average estimate of $934.29 million [4] - Adjusted segment profit for Performance Coatings Group was $294.9 million, below the estimated $309.79 million [4] - Adjusted segment profit for Consumer Brands Group was $179.3 million, above the average estimate of $168.79 million [4]