SG&A Spending Patterns: A Tale of Two Industries

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate finance, understanding the spending patterns of major companies can offer valuable insights. This analysis compares the Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses of Howmet Aerospace Inc. and United Airlines Holdings, Inc. from 2014 to 2023.

Aerospace vs. Airlines: A Decade of Change

Over the past decade, Howmet Aerospace's SG&A expenses have seen a significant decline, dropping by approximately 55% from 2014 to 2023. In contrast, United Airlines Holdings experienced a more volatile pattern, with a notable dip in 2020, likely due to the pandemic, but rebounding strongly by 2023 with a 44% increase from its lowest point in 2020.

Key Insights

While Howmet Aerospace streamlined its operations, United Airlines adapted to external challenges, showcasing resilience. This comparison highlights the distinct strategies employed by companies in different sectors to navigate economic fluctuations.