Microsoft Corporation and Leidos Holdings, Inc.: SG&A Spending Patterns Compared

SG&A Spending Patterns: Microsoft vs. Leidos

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate finance, understanding the spending patterns of industry giants can offer valuable insights. Over the past decade, Microsoft Corporation has consistently outpaced Leidos Holdings, Inc. in Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses. From 2014 to 2023, Microsoft's SG&A expenses have grown by approximately 48%, reaching a peak of $30.3 billion in 2023. In contrast, Leidos has seen a more modest increase of around 204% over the same period, with expenses peaking at $950 million in 2022.

A Tale of Two Strategies

Microsoft's substantial investment in SG&A reflects its aggressive growth strategy and global market expansion. Meanwhile, Leidos' more conservative spending aligns with its focus on specialized government and defense contracts. The data for 2024 is incomplete, but the trends suggest a continued divergence in spending strategies. This comparison highlights the distinct paths these companies are taking in their respective industries.