Cost Management Insights: SG&A Expenses for Deere & Company and Southwest Airlines Co.

Navigating Cost Management: A Tale of Two Giants

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate finance, understanding cost management is crucial. This analysis delves into the Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses of two industry titans: Deere & Company and Southwest Airlines Co., from 2014 to 2023. Deere & Company, a leader in agricultural machinery, saw a steady increase in SG&A expenses, peaking at approximately 4.5 billion in 2024, marking a 37% rise from 2014. Meanwhile, Southwest Airlines, a major player in the aviation sector, experienced a more volatile trajectory, with expenses surging by over 1800% from 2014 to 2023, reaching nearly 4 billion. Notably, 2020 marked a dip for Southwest, likely reflecting pandemic impacts. This comparative insight underscores the diverse challenges and strategies in cost management across sectors, offering a window into the financial health and strategic priorities of these corporations.